"She is not really alive unless she is creating." I picked up a paintbrush when I was 1 1/2 years old and never put it down. Vulnerable, connecting, disconnecting, concealing, enclosing, protecting. Intricate textured layers hiding, securing, releasing, holding back. The internal/external battle, continuous visual and non-visual conflict many of us face...these are all words to describe my artwork derived from my personal experiences and beliefs. When I am inspired or artistically "sparked" I drop everything and pursue that vision until I see it successfully on paper or canvas. The physical act of painting is as important if not more important than the finished product. The canvas becomes vulnerable, alive, mobile, vibrant and full of energy as I combine torn, manipulated, cut, hand sewn canvas with objects and materials having a variety of textures, history and personal meaning. While 3-Dimensional Sculpture paintings and my latest "Internalscapes" series have been my forte, I have also been fascinated with macro-photography using both 35 mm SLR and digital SLR cameras as well as computer technology to enhance my images. The subject matter of many of my paintings and drawings are derived from my close-up photographs capturing the sometimes overlooked beauty and abstraction of nature, human anatomy, physiology and organic objects. My belief as an artist is that life is one continuous challenging journey and I should NEVER get too comfortable, satisfied, adapted or relaxed in my environment. I need to constantly re-evaluate myself and be open to change. Always question my surroundings, challenge my visions, push the limits... never let anything or anyone hold my creativity back.

I studied Art at University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana and received a BFA in Fine and Applied Art/ Painting. I also took courses in Photography, Ceramics and Art Education. Aside from concentrating on my artwork, I have been employed as a Professional Picture Framer, specializing in creative matting and framing design. Many of my paintings and photographs have been purchased throughout the years by friends, relatives, artistic admirers, and private collectors. All of my images are available in larger sizes up to 24x36- prices will be quoted upon request.