Artist Statement

Vibrant colors, lavish textures, and visual depth are the hallmarks of my work. My inspiration lies in the natural world that surrounds me and can run the gamut from ocean waves breaking on a seashore to irrigation patterns seen from an airplane window to the warmth of the summer sun shining on my head. These visions are the starting point; I work in abstract images and impressions and seldom does a literal representation appear in my work.

My work is process driven, which is a refined way of saying I am never quite sure what it will look like when it's finished. I begin with a concept, and each new process builds on a "what if" from the previous one. The work is mostly about itself, and what results from exploration and experimentation. Multiple surface design and construction processes shape the outcome, which may or may not be even close to the original concept. This is part of the excitement and mystery in making art. If one knows what it is going to look like before starting, why bother?

My medium is fabric and thread. Starting with ordinary white cotton fabric, I work with multiple surface design processes, which include, but are not limited to, dyeing, painting, stamping, and screen printing. Layer upon layer of color is added to each fabric. I love the process of mark-making on my own fabrics. I cut the fabrics into pieces and reassemble them into a composition. Then, using the time honored technique of quilt makers, I create a fabric sandwich with top, batting, and backing. The thread and stitching that holds this sandwich together form another layer of color, texture, and depth. From a distance my work often resembles a painting; but as the viewer approaches, the stitching detail beckons and invites even closer inspection.