While reflecting on my own beliefs concerning death and a possible afterlife, I began asking questions of my friends and family and many interesting conversations ensued. I began reading medical, cultural and religious writings on the subject and strangers would freely offer their opinion if they saw a book cover.

Opinions were often extremely personal and freely reflected formal philosophies, cultural conventions, and religious teachings. This project is about developing a visual of my own opinions but also sharing in a conversation.

Visitors to the exhibit were asked to write or illustrate their thoughts on the subject of an afterlife. They were not asked to identify themselves, but were encouraged to include a first name and the area where they lived.

The following questions were offered to help organize reflections but were by no means a formula that the participates needed to follow.

• What do you envision as an afterlife to this one?
• When you think of a loved one that has died, how do you envision their existence?
• Describe any connections that you have to that person now (genes, traits, influences).

Please click here to view individual responses. There are 55 responses.

Click here to send me an email with your personal reflection. (benita@benitabrewer.com)

The images follow a progression into the afterlife. They reflect the limitations of biology and human form to fully comprehend another existence. They are deliberately fragmented but show reflections of my upbringing, education, beliefs, and surroundings.

I am made of light; I am made of stars
Light creates stars
Everything is made of light
Light is the messenger of life;
because it is alive and
contains all information

Don Miguel Ruiz

I am made of light, I am made of stars
digital archival print, 36” x 24”
Click here for a larger view

When I was born and saw the light
I was no stranger in this world
Something inscrutable, shapeless,
and without words
appeared in the form of my mother.
So when I die,
the same unknown will appear again
As ever known to me,
And because I love this life
I will love death as well.

Deepak Chopra

I was no stranger in this world
digital archival print, 36” x 24”
Click here for a larger view

When we love one another
the most delicate truth of that love
is held in the spirit,
but my body is the record
of those I have loved.
I feel their bones as my bones,
almost literally.
This record is autonomous.
It continues, dumbly, to persist.
Its power is independent of time.
The love is fixed,
instantly accessible to memory,
somehow stained into my body
as color into cloth.

Anne Truitt

I feel their bones as my bones
digital archival print 36” x 24”
Click here for a larger view