Jane Wodening

Jane Wodening, originally named Mary Jane Collom and previously known as Jane Brakhage, is a prominent American author and the first spouse of influential filmmaker Stan Brakhage. Born in the mid-20th century, Wodening married Brakhage in 1957, and their journey together inspired the 1959 avant-garde short film, "Window Water Baby Moving," which captures the profound experience of their first child's birth.

During their marriage, which lasted until their separation in 1987, Wodening played a pivotal role in the creative life of Brakhage, particularly during his most prolific years from the late 1950s to the mid-1960s. She is noted for her dedication to preserving family memories, as she meticulously compiled scrapbooks that documented their life together and offered insights into the artist's evolving work.

Wodening's contributions extend beyond her personal life; she has also made her mark as a writer, with various works reflecting her experiences and observations. Through her unique perspective, she has enriched the narrative of American avant-garde cinema and the artistic community surrounding it. Her legacy is intertwined with that of Brakhage, making her an integral figure in the history of experimental filmmaking.