The Designs of Judith Fox-Goldstein

Art As Healing & Self-Discovery

Ms. Attitude: Ode to Irene is based on Judith’s Mother-in-law.  As Judith explains, “FIERCE” is the word that comes to mind when I think of my beloved Mother-in-law, Irene. She loved her family with unparalleled devotion and I was so very lucky that my husband Michael came as a ‘package deal’ with 3 fantastic siblings and “Mama Loo”. She was a FORCE! She entered the room – hair first! When she passed away, I was honored to give her eulogy. I began with, “For as long as I have known Irene… her HAIR HAS NEVER MOVED!” She would have loved that”.

After a lifetime of academic and non-profit  leadership, Judith Fox-Goldstein made the surprise discovery that she was an artist.  What she likes to refer to as her “art Awakening” began this past September and she says it's one of most exciting personal journey's she's encountered.  "You're Never Too Old to be Brand New!" said Judith.


Each colorful and soulful design shows a striking, somewhat abstract image of a woman accompanied by “story” and an inspirational quote.  The designs are all about women and empowerment and take the form of cards, or prints,  on plain craft paper with interesting embellishments, as well as framed pieces. She has integrated poets like Maya Angelou, Rumi, Gandhi, and many other inspirational writers.


The designs are called Makana Mixed Media, Designs by Jude.  It is art derived from a deep place within and is inspired by strong, fascinating women Judith has known throughout her life.


Ms. Attitude: Ode to Irene is based on Judith’s Mother-in-law.  As Judith explains, “FIERCE” is the word that comes to mind when I think of my beloved Mother-in-law, Irene. She loved her family with unparalleled devotion and I was so very lucky that my husband Michael came as a ‘package deal’ with 3 fantastic siblings and “Mama Loo”. She was a FORCE! She entered the room – hair first! When she passed away, I was honored to give her eulogy. I began with, “For as long as I have known Irene… her HAIR HAS NEVER MOVED!” She would have loved that”.


Judith is a transplant from the Big Island of Hawai'i, and spent most of her professional and personal life on the beautiful Island where she raised her two children. The art she creates is frequently informed by strong, powerful women she knew in Hawai’i.


One design called Kamali’i Kehau: “You Dance Inside My Heart” is based on a Hawaiian, Samoan, Chinese & Hau’oli (Caucasian) woman and teacher of dance.  Kamali’i story: She is a Master Hula Dancer and teaches young children from the age of 2 years old.  Her life is Hawaiian music, dance and the mo’olelo stories and traditions of Hawaiian. She hopes to bring her Hula Halau (dance troupe) to perform at the Smithsonian.


Judith said this was her first Hawaiian design. “I agonized over this because I wanted to get her features right and pay homage to what has been my adopted culture for most of my life.”

“You Dance Inside My Heart” is based on a Hawaiian, Samoan, Chinese & Hau’oli (Caucasian) woman and teacher of dance.  Kamali’i story: She is a Master Hula Dancer and teaches young children from the age of 2 years old.  Her life is Hawaiian music, dance and the mo’olelo stories and traditions of Hawaiian. She hopes to bring her Hula Halau (dance troupe) to perform at the Smithsonian.
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Her awakening as an artist was a surprise. When she moved to northern Florida with her husband she says she was terribly sad leaving all of her roots and thought she would never be happy again.   “I finally learned that I could carry all of that beauty inside my heart and grow and expand from bountiful memories and experiences in Hawaii. My husband, Michael would be extremely surprised to hear me say, "Mahalo Nui Loa (thank you very much), for bringing me here because I have discovered an entire new ME!... it's a place of unlimited growth and love and all the people I have met here are now part of my Ohana... My family”.

This art reflects Judith’s journey as a human.  Of the triumphs and challenges that we all face as women. She says, “creating, giving them a voice, is powerfully healing”.
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The art is now on display at CC Gallery/Framing Shop on San Jose near Barnes and Noble. All of this is so unexpected for Judith, she is still making sense of it all. “It took my breath away  to see it displayed. When CC Framing and Gallery owner, Chris, told me that my first piece sold,  well, I think my spirits literally lifted off the ground I believe I can now really call myself an artist!”

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