As many of you know, a poem, "And the People Stayed Home" by Kitty O'Meara, has been going viral again for the second time this year. The original post included my "Bedtime Stories" image without credit. It has been shared hundreds of thousands of times without my name on it. This is not the only time it has happened, and each time, it is a bit heart-wrenching. That viral post generated a book deal for the author from a prominent house. Many people found me looking for a "hibernation" image.

This is a plea to be aware of the artists behind the pictures in posts. Artworks come from our heart, they have deep personal meaning, they are made after years of practice, and they should, at the very least, be credited. It only takes a simple reverse-image search to find the artist of any artwork you want to post. Adding the artist's name and website is a simple thing to do--and it's the right thing to do.

I'm deeply honored that many of you have been touched by this image. It came from a place of deep longing that clearly has spoken to you, as well.
Please, stay safe and well as we move into the colder season, and let's get through this together. Wishing you every health and comfort.
​
Jessica Boehman
 "Bedtime Stories" 2013, colored pencil and pencil.
www.jessicaboehman.com

"The Fox Woman" Jessica Boehman, mixed media, November 2020
Based on this tale, retold by Martin Shaw
https://soundcloud.com/mjp-shaw/the-fox-woman-martin-shaw