Conjuring Magic and Defying Censorship: A Writer's Tale in the Unbannable Library
In the heart of Tennessee, a unique art project is taking shape to challenge the rising tide of censorship. The Unbannable Library, a series of larger-than-life book sculptures, stands as a testament to intellectual freedom and the power of diverse voices. Among the contributors to this innovative exhibition is Joanna
Grisham, a local writer whose journey from student to educator has come full circle at Austin Peay State University.
Roots in Tennessee Soil
"I grew up in Tennessee, and I was a student at APSU years ago," Grisham begins, painting a picture of her deep connection to the area. After earning an MFA in Creative Writing and teaching at various institutions, she found her way back to her alma mater. "I've been back at Austin Peay for about eight years," she shares, highlighting a commitment to education that mirrors her dedication to the written word.
Her writing, a blend of poetry and prose, often delves into the complex tapestry of Southern life. "My work tends to focus on family dynamics with religious and Southern themes," she explains, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural context that informs her art.
A Call to Action
When she heard about the Unbannable Library project, Grisham saw an opportunity she couldn't pass up. "It sounded really cool and also significant and
timely, considering all the measures being put in place to censor and eliminate certain voices," she recounts. As a queer writer, the project held personal significance, prompting her to join the artistic resistance against censorship.
Magic on the Page
For her contribution to the Unbannable Library, Grisham chose a poem she penned for her daughter, Lennon. "It's a poem about a little girl who believes in her magic, her power. Her parents – her mothers – believe her too," she describes. The choice was deliberate, addressing the often-challenged themes of magic in children's literature, especially in the Bible Belt.
"We have a spooky little kid," Grisham says. "She loves magic, witches, Halloween, potions, spells, mysteries." Through her writing, Grisham champions these interests, pushing back against the fear that often leads to censorship. "I think a belief in magic is beautiful and empowering, especially for little girls."
Collaboration and Creation
Grisham’s words found visual life through collaboration with local artist Leo Adames, a fellow APSU alum she knows from church. "He's a brilliant artist and musician and gracious person," she says. The partnership proved fruitful, with Adames bringing her poem to life in ways she hadn't imagined. "I couldn't have asked for a more beautiful depiction of this text," she says.
A Message of Empowerment
Through her contribution to the Unbannable Library, Grisham hopes to rekindle the sense of wonder often lost in adulthood. "I hope the audience sees this book and remembers their own magic and finds a way to conjure it again, the way they did when they were kids, without fear," she explains.
Her message extends beyond the personal, addressing the broader issues of censorship and free expression. "We don't have to be afraid of things we don't understand," she says. "There is beauty and wonder and magic all around us. We shouldn't be so quick to censor our kids; we should encourage them to find their voice and support them along the way. And legislators can tell us to be silent, but we won’t be silent. Never again."
Art as a Catalyst for Change
Reflecting on the project's impact, Grisham emphasizes the crucial role of art in combating censorship. "We need art – paintings, photographs, drawings, film, books, theatre, music, dance, all of it," she says. "We find ourselves in art, and we find each other in art too."
She sees art as a bridge to understanding and empathy, especially when it challenges our perspectives. "It may show us something we've never before
experienced or even considered, amplifying a voice we've never thought to listen to before," she explains. "And listening, hearing, and then empathizing leads to growth and understanding. That's how the world heals."
Looking Forward
As the Unbannable Library is unveiled across Tennessee, Grisham hopes it will inspire action and dialogue. "I hope others are excited to see all these giant, beautiful, provocative works of art and are inspired to read banned books, to fight the banning of books, and to promote discussion about what we can do to protect our artistic freedoms," she says.
In a world where voices are too often silenced, Grisham’s contribution to the Unbannable Library stands as a beacon of hope – a reminder that magic, in all its forms, deserves to be celebrated, not censored.
Join us for an Unbannable Library Reception on Wednesday, Sept. 25, from 5 PM - 6 PM in the Woodward Library, room 232. This gathering offers a chance to connect with authors and illustrators featured in the Unbannable Library. Your presence and participation will enrich our ongoing dialogue about the value of diverse voices in literature. No RSVP required. All are welcome.