As the daughter-in-law of Jo Hess, I have created this web site in hopes that people who knew Jo would have the opportunity to see the full range of her artistry, and also to make it possible for others to discover her fine work.
This web site is my effort to pay a loving tribute to a woman who was beautiful both inside and out, who made friends wherever she went, and who created beautiful works of art which deserve to be seen by many more people.
Although Jo left this Earth in November of 2000, her son Charles (my husband) and I have many of her sculptures in our home in Dallas. Not only are they beautiful to look at and enjoy, but they give us the feeling that the spirit of Jo is still with us, encouraging us, inspiring us, and serving as a constant reminder to fully enjoy life, exactly as she did.
On our patio we have an edition of Flora, one of Jo’s life-size sculptures. Our edition is the artist’s proof. Jo had decided that this piece would have a very limited number of editions, which have all been sold. Unfortunately, no further editions left of this particular piece can be cast.
The photo above shows me having a companionable chat with Flora, perhaps discussing what kinds of flowers can best withstand the Texas heat, or perhaps deciding together that it’s time to take a break from gardening and enjoy a glass of wine. Despite the fact that the “conversation” in the photo took place at least 20 years ago, I must confess that I find Flora as engaging as ever. Our house would not be the same without her comforting presence.