About
A Minnesota Native, I began designing and creating jewelry in 1994 by wrapping raw gemstones in gold and silver wire. I progressed to learning lapidary (carving stones), and onto metal smiting and fabrication. Much of my work includes spiculums; hollow acicular forms, using both synclast and antic last forming, creating fluid 3 dimensional organic results. I work in sterling silver with gold accents as well as steel with gold accents. I alloy my own gold so that I can create the colors I desire and often add gemstones as focal points. For a more affordable option, I sometimes work in Nu-Gold which is a bronze that is alloyed to look like gold. All steel and gold, and Nu-Gold pieces are treated to prevent tarnishing. All of my metals are nickel free.
My jewelry path is a synthesis of my life and inner spiritual journey. Growing up in the military, I have lived many places, including Germany and Japan, and traveled most of Europe. The influences of these cultures are intrinsic in my work. In 1997, a yearning to take my journey to a more peaceful, quiet lifestyle, prompted my move from the inner city of Minneapolis to the pristine mountains of North Carolina, where I lived for 20 years. Currently, I spend winters in Florida and summers in Minnesota so that I can spend more time with my adult son and daughter-in-law. My tools are always with me to both make and to teach. My hobbies include walking in nature, kayaking, fishing and gardening. I have a keen interest in regenerative agriculture.
I HAVE BEEN A MEMBER OF THE FOLLOWING ORGANIZATIONS
Minnesota Craft Council American Craft Council
Southern Highland Craft Guild Carolina Designer Craftsmen
Piedmont Craftsmen Florida Society of Goldsmiths
SELECT AWARDS OF DISTINCTION AND EXHIBITIONS
Best of Show - Telfair Museum
Finalist - Saul Bell Competition
Award of Excellence - Piedmont Craftsmen
Farm to Table - (Tulip Flatware) American Silver Asheville Museum of Art
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