Artist Statement My work is primarily about story telling. I think of myself not as an artist so much, but as a creator of magical worlds and characters. I strive to capture the feeling of enchantment, wonder and fear of childhood. The characters I create are shaped by my artistic influences as well as my internal world. The aesthetic of vintage toys and images that are both adorable and creepy inspire the birth of my characters. I bring them to life either in 3-D form as sculptures or in illustration. I use clay or paper mache in making my sculptures, usually dressing them in hand sewn costumes and suspending them in electrically lit shadowbox dioramas or on wood plaques. Most of my 3-D pieces have moving parts. My illustrations are usually watercolor and ink on wood.

Drawing and story telling were a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I grew up in a home that valued creativity and learning. However, as an artist I am mostly self taught. My schooling reflected my other interests, with a BA degree in Communication from Barry University and a Master\'s Degree in Biblical Studies and Theology from John Knox Seminary. I am a published author and have won a few awards for my written work. As a more mature (read: aging) adult I returned to my first love, story telling through images and began to create and sell my work professionally about 7 years ago. I have shown my work in galleries all over the United States. My puppets were featured in the movie “Plush” (director Catherine Hardwick, “Twilight”). I have sold my work at many Art and/or craft fairs. I also curated and organized Art shows and Craft shows in my home state of Florida.

I love the people, history and scenery of Tennessee and have made it my new home for the past two years. I live with my musician Husband and my artistic Son in Franklin.