Artist Statement

I create mixed media collage with a strong foundation in textiles. I use a combination of bold colors and wildly varied techniques to create a strong feeling of movement and energy in my art.  Each piece is a story told through movement, color and the juxtaposition of 2D and 3D elements. 

My work stirs emotions and draws the viewer further into the world of my art. Whether joy or sorrow, confusion or celebration, that visceral emotional impact is part of the story told by each piece. These elements raise many questions: “What happened before this?”  “What happens next?” “How did she do that?”           

Because I do not limit myself to any specific medium, my tools and techniques are limited only by my imagination. I begin with a foundation of fabric, often a striking batik or other vibrant textile. I work in deep, saturated colors that give strong definition and provide the underlying strength of the piece. It is onto this foundation that I begin building layer upon layer to bring the piece to its final form. The layers consist of various fabrics with wildly varying qualities: sheer or opaque, shiny or matte, smooth or highly textured; all lend themselves as building blocks for molding and  transforming  the growing piece of art. 

Next I build upon the piece by using a vast array of techniques: stitching, quilting, weaving, extensive thread and bead embroidery, embossing, burning, foiling, stamping, sculpting and collage, to name a few. As I continue to embellish the piece, my repertoire of materials is vast and can include: beads, fibers, graphics, paper, paint and found objects. These objects can range from natural elements to completely manufactured items. 

Nothing is ever overlooked, everything has potential, it just needs the right project to become part of a greater whole.  In the end there is harmony and the piece is complete. Cacophony becomes a symphony, disorder becomes art.