ARTIST STATEMENT

Color, texture, and shape are key elements in my artwork. After spending several years as a graphic designer working mainly with computers, I especially enjoy creating my wall pieces with a more hands-on technique.  While designing, I use a variety of unique papers for the base, cutting each piece into simplified shapes and adding lines to define their boundaries.  I then add layers of texture by transforming flat pieces of paper into three dimensional objects.  I employ design techniques such as quilling, weaving, and embossing to create these effects.  I also emulate textures I notice throughout my everyday life, such as rolling hundreds of tiny paper balls to give the appearance of carpet.  For additional texture, I use found objects such as unique beads, various metals, vintage buttons, porcupine quills and intensely saturated fabrics.  These objects not only serve to enhance each design, but also provide inspiration for an overall focus.  With each layer, the depth of the image becomes more and more complex.  I strive for balance and intensity, reworking each piece until the individual elements blend into a final unified composition.