ARTIST STATEMENT

Through my mixed media work, I imagine the potential stories behind the curious objects I find in flea markets, antique stores and salvage yards. An orphaned portrait, a battered geography textbook, a rusted set of keys...each object has a hidden life. Added to this collection of objects are scraps of poems, quotes, words or songs. Combining these elements becomes a fascinating form of visual improvisation. Through this juxtaposition of images, objects and words, each piece leads us into a dreamlike world and encourages us to use our imagination and explore.

ARTISTIC PROCESS These mixed media works are created with found materials, paper, gesso, watercolor, acrylic paint and mediums, pencil and ink. I begin my work by selecting the foundation elements of the piece. Working with these elements, I start to discover the story or central theme of the work. I then layer in additional elements to support this core meaning. I sometimes find a quote or create a small poem that builds upon the elements in the work. Once I have developed the basic composition, I adher portions of the assemblage as needed and add color and texture by working with layers of gesso, plaster, watercolor, and/or acrylic paint. The final assembly is achieved with acrylic gel medium and silicon gel with touch-ups of gesso and paint as needed. Work is covered with UV protective glass as needed.

BIOGRAPHY Born and educated in Michigan, I currently work in my home studio located in Plymouth, Michigan. My interest in mixed media started at the University of Michigan School of Art where I began to draw upon my studies in fiber arts, drawing and painting to create works incorporating and redefining found materials. Over the last 13 years, I continued to develop my philosophy and technique in mixed media for my personal pleasure as I pursued a career in illustration and web design. In 2001 I decided to explore my fascination with mixed media full time. Since then, I’ve enjoyed showing work and have been honored with awards at exhibits in Michigan, Ohio and Florida.