Barbara Young, RN, MHP, Artist

STORYVOICE INTERNATIONAL

Reclaiming your power of speech through the fine art of maskmaking.

Barbara uses the powerful art of maskmaking to give workshop participants a unique window into the stories, often hidden and held within themselves. She learned the art from the female elders of the Shoalwater Bay Tribe, who invited her in and shared their wisdom, then directed her to go out and share the healing powers of the mask. Barbara also has a background in mental health and nursing, and is aware of many limitations inherent in the traditional approach to mental health. Her vision for StoryVoice International brings a sensitivity and individuality back to the healing process.

Barbara teaches workshops and lectures throughout the Northwest and other parts of the country. She recently provided workshops in Tacoma, WA where teenagers and seniors come together to make masks and share their stories. Families often invite her to facilitate maskmaking across generations at their family reunions. These workshops are ideal for leadership development and team building within workplaces and private groups. They offer a safe space for the exploration and uncovering of what lies behind the masks we all wear.

These masks were made by two people who were partners in a maskmaking workshop.

Barbara displaying her work.

Enterprise for Equity helped me create a plan and a vision for how I wanted my maskmaking business to grow. Over the years, as the concept evolves, I am able to use the information I learned in the business training to direct my marketing efforts to accomplish my goals.