Sheehan's first self-portrait B&W 35mm film photographs portray a psychic transformation through ritualistic enactments. The sequence of 20 photographs deals with the animal in the human and birth of self, culminating in the release of the spirit from the body.

The sequence title refers to barking, as:
a. to express a guttural cry as that of a dog when outraged, frightened or calling for attention
b. to remove the skin or bark, of a tree, exposing the smooth wood in preparation for use.
and willow, as:
willow:
a. a tree known for its flexible branches used to weave basketry
b. considered to be a witch's tree, source of contraceptive and fever-reducing agent.