Carrollton, GA and Cedar Bluff, AL
My earliest memory is of watching my mother draw. From these early experiences a lifelong love and pursuit of my own artistic voice was born. Following a rich and interesting career in higher education as a counselor educator, a creative pursuit of a different sort, I am now devoting my energies to creating wearable art in my metals studio.
I use traditional metal smithing techniques such as sawing, filing, soldering, stone setting, and finishing to achieve my design vision. Some of my favorite specialty techniques include keumboo, the application of 23.5-24K gold to fine silver by fusing the metals together; forming and shaping; folding; and, rolling and stamping. My work is characterized by clean, uncluttered lines and enhanced by the use of texture.
The primary inspirations for my jewelry are color and texture. The metals themselves offer endless opportunities for creative expression. I love sterling and fine silver in both natural and altered forms. Gold and colorful base metals such as bronze occasionally make an appearance in the form of a small embellishment to enhance a design. Beautiful stones evoke visions of jewelry that beg to be transformed into wearable art.
I spend as much time as possible on beautiful Weiss lake. Whether paddling or simply viewing from my porch, I find the ever changing colors of the sky, water, and surrounding mountain scapes full of inspiration and the peace and tranquility that is necessary for my creativity.
As counselor, teacher, and artist I am inspired by people who approach life with creativity, humor, optimism, and consistency. I strive to apply these qualities to my work and life.
