Art has always been a way for me to connect with nature, and this has never been more evident than in my nature collages. Bark from a fallen tree, twigs, grasses, and pressed leaves all serve to enhance my paintings of the native Blue Ridge flora and fauna. I find all of this in my own backyard and in the surrounding woodlands and meadows. Nothing is harmed in the gathering process, and whatever is not used in the work is placed on my garden for mulch. Each piece is lovingly and meticulously crafted and is made to endure for many years bringing the essence of Nature and the mountains into your home.

Although my background is in drawing and illustration, I also find pleasure hand-building in clay. Quilts, textiles, patterns, birds, butterflies, and children are my sources of inspiration. In my clay work, I enjoy the tactile nature of the process creating items to be used and touched by the owner. In my drawings I am intrigued by narrative and story. All my work is designed to delight and inspire the viewer.

Although fused glass is the basis of my craft business, it continually leads me to other areas of exploration. The color, liquidity and variable nature of fused glass and other materials constantly invites innovation. Everybody has an idea - what fun to interpret by way of kiln fired glass! The possibilities of heat and gravity manipulation are endless!

My latest project is 5x7, 8x10, and 11x14 handmade, hand painted tiles. Also included in my inventory are unique mugs, Flower Keepers, cookie jars, elegant fruit/serving bowls, and chip and dips.

Polymer Clay is used to create an exquisite and lightweight imitation stone accenting the stunning natural beauty of the stone. That material is made into stunning lightweight jewelry.

Functional stoneware pottery and traditional and contemporary quilted items including wall-hangings, table runners, pillows, hot mats, and coasters.

After making my first piece of jewelry, I knew I had found a craft about which I was passionate! That was many years ago, and I've enjoyed every minute of becoming an "artisan." My style varies, depending on how the metal or bead speaks to me. I enjoy metal and wire work especially, as well as playing with color and texture. A few of the tools I utilize to make my jewelry include a torch, kiln, rolling mill, flex shaft dremel, and many, many types of hammers! I live in Chilhowie, VA, on 20 acres, with my husband and two boys.