ABOUT THE ARTIST

I enjoy texture, both visual and tactile. With wood, texture shows up in complex grain patterns (which are purely visual), and in the natural edges of wood burl (whose irregular surfaces ask to be touched).  Mixing in exotic woods (in butterflies) adds visual variety and reminders of the dramatic range of color in wood. A silky finish to the wood invites lingering caresses.  Fiber is thought of as gentler to the touch – but not necessarily; it also offers visual variety.

Curiosity is key to my artistic process; I am always asking “What would happen if...?” — then pursuing possibilities. 

I am intrigued and challenged by structure and space. When the top of a table is opened up a tension is created – and then the gap is bridged with butterflies. Splitting a top breaks it out of its planar limitations, interrupting the grain patterns and challenging the eye to locate the continuity and pull the piece back together.

Wood and fiber are not commonly juxtaposed - but why not? Their contrasting textures invite my curiosity – and I look for ways to bring my favorite materials together.

I am attentive to craftsmanship: balancing an understanding of materials and structures with the key design elements of furniture:  function, comfort, durability and beauty.

My shop is small (16' x 10'), so I have learned to be quite efficient in getting my work done. (I may vacuum 2-3 times a day for safety, and to keep clutter to a minimum.) I like the challenge of working within my space constraints.

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I currently work almost entirely in wood and fiber. In the past, I have expressed my craft through weaving, quilting, needlework, and blacksmithing, as well as in paper and clay.