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The Inspiring Tale of Judith and Joyce Scott: A Testament to Twin Magic

The life story of twin sisters Judith and Joyce Scott seems straight out of a film. It features everything you'd expect from an Oscar-winning narrative: a blissful childhood, profound loss, an emotional reunion, triumph, and widespread artistic recognition. Above all, it’s about two sisters who loved each other deeply despite numerous challenges—and it's entirely true.

The twins were born in Cincinnati in 1943. Judith had Down syndrome, while Joyce did not. The sisters were deeply bonded and spent their early years playing together in a sandbox made just for them. They also shared the same bed at night.

However, their parents struggled to cope. Judith's Down syndrome, compounded by her inability to speak and undiagnosed deafness, left them feeling helpless. Medical professionals at the time knew little about engaging with children with Down syndrome and recommended institutionalization. Eventually, Judith was sent to a sanitarium at age seven, where she remained for 25 years.

Joyce grew up, went to college, moved to California, and became a nurse specializing in care for children with developmental disabilities. She often thought of Judith. At 25, while on a silent meditation retreat, Joyce had an epiphany: she realized her sister should be with her, not in an institution. She took guardianship of Judith and brought her to California, reuniting their family.

As they adjusted to their new life, Joyce discovered Creative Growth, an enrichment center for adults with developmental disabilities, and began taking Judith there for art classes. Judith showed no particular interest for two years until a textile artist's presentation captivated her. Judith started to wrap two sticks in fabric methodically, creating her first sculpture. Over the next 18 years, she produced over 200 sculptures, each unique and compelling.

Judith's work, characterized by wrapped fabric, varied in size and complexity, from small handheld pieces to large installations. She worked with whatever materials were available, and her process had no set rhythm, taking as long as needed to complete a piece. Judith rarely interacted with her finished works, except at her first art show, where she lovingly acknowledged each piece.

In 1999, Creative Growth hosted the first exhibition of Judith's work, which garnered international attention and led to more shows, books, documentaries, and articles. Despite being nonverbal and illiterate, Judith's sculptures resonated deeply with viewers, leaving interpretation open to them.

Critics have labeled Judith's art as “outsider art” or “brutalist,” but her creations stand alone, telling her story through wrapped objects and knotted fabric instead of words.

Judith passed away peacefully in her sister's arms in 2005. Joyce continues to share their story, participating in exhibitions and writing about their life together. She credits Judith with being her guardian and caretaker, reversing the common perception that she transformed Judith's life.

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