Fiber Artist & Master Mess Maker
For many years my primary focus was writing and publishing books and poetry for young readers of all ages. I never illustrated any of the books I wrote though. I never really thought much about art because back when I was a scared kid with big dreams a teacher forced me to transfer out of his art class. He said I had no talent. Oh my, that hurt. It hurt bad and I heard that teacher’s voice in my head for many, many years.
I am primarily a fiber artist obsessed with texture. I began my art journey making handmade books, working in mixed media, and creating digital kits for paper lovers. While I still enjoy making books these days I am all about the needle and thread and trying to find new and unique ways to create texture in my work.
My need to create stems from a desire to shine light into the corners of everyday life and the belief that we are all much more creative and able than we might think.
Making things has always been my way of finding my way in the world. When I create something new, it is meant to be shared. It is that connection that completes the creative circle.
I tell my truths and help others connect to the truths in their own lives. When my art or words or photographs connect to someone else I feel the energy move between us, the emotional threads from my life begin to intertwine with theirs and neither of us is left untouched. Once we connect, we are no longer alone. Once we connect, we can shine the light on each other.
We all have the potential to change lives, starting with our very own.
I used to live in constant fear of someone finding out that I was nothing special. I was always afraid of being different and never believed that just being me would be enough. Now I know better. Now I know that if you have a dream in life that is interesting and challenging to you have to follow it.
You know what else I know? That teacher was so wrong.
