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HELLO
In this photo I'm stitching into the collar of this portrait in progress.
I want people to consider the way they look at women, talk about women, and rethink their definitions and assumptions about people.
I want us to engage in dialogue about how we allow ourselves to be run by internalized definitions of what it means to be female and our own role in perpetuating those systems.
Thus, I create portraits of women to investigate the social norms and expectations we cultivate and support around gender.
Craft has historically been work created by women. Craft is also often dismissed in the world of fine art. This is another literal layer to the conversation around how we value women in our society and culture.
Putting my time into these works by doing laborious craft activities is a means by which I discuss value and worth (of art, of women, etc.).
Part of my process is to remove the paintings from the canvas and embroider into them. I am interested in incorporating other craft materials such as beading and sequins into this work.
The paintings are then re-stretched on the canvas, the paintings refined, and real 23 k gold leaf applied to add another layer to the conversation about value and worth.
GALLERY
I grew up around a mother who was a maker. She was always building things: weaving baskets, embroidery, sewing, painting… you name it I was witness to her exploring the material. She has been and still is a wonderful example of someone who enjoys creativity for the sake of doing it.
Her curiosity and interest in multiple mediums is part of my influence.
I create art that is painted, incorporates mixed media materials including gold leaf, and I create textile art with my embroidery.
Other influences include interests outside of art, including yoga. My personal yoga practice has impacted all facets of my life: a greater desire to serve others, increased compassion, mindfulness, health and a desire to slow down, to stop worshipping at the altar of being busy.
I love reading non-fiction and learning new ideas as well as being exposed to stories from history. My extensive travel, including living in the Middle East for 9 years, has also impacted my art.
These influences are evident in all of my work: my love of pattern and gilded things, my portraits celebrating women past and present, and honoring textile traditions of past with a present, mindful, sometimes socially conscious twist.
You can discover the varied artwork I create by clicking the "View Gallery" button.