Artist's Statement

From the humble beginnings of craft-store beads and cheap findings to discovering new ways to create unique pieces using gemstones, crystals and sterling silver,the next step was there just waiting to be taken.

That step was to create my own beads for my own designs. After taking my first lamp-working class with Chris Camac of Carlisle School of Glass Art, I was drawn to the flame like a moth! Less than a month later, a class with renowned glass sculptor Deb Crowley confirmed it - I was hooked!

Diving in head-first, experimenting with my new equipment (and wow, what a lot of equipment!), I have been inspired by other artists, the seasons, and the idea of creating something unique with my own made-in-America hands. 

I am constantly learning new techniques and developing my skills to create pieces that draw attention to the wearer.  Most recently I have been experimenting with recycling glass, specifically wine bottles and stained glass scraps.  Thrown away trash gets rehashed! 

Most of the glass used is soft glass, known as soda lime glass.  I use Italian, Moretti glass rods with a coe of 104.  All my icicles are made with borosilicate, or hard glass, with a coe of 32.  After being formed in the flame of my Carlisle Mini CC burner each piece is kiln annealed for strength accordingly.  

Drifting in the flame, ideas come. Every sitting I learn something new - and it's not always about the synchronicity of the moving glass.

Please wear these works with the same peacefulness I have in creating them for you.