My mixed media work is a continuing exploration of physical and emotional aspects of place.  It is influenced by my studies of Deep Ecology and Bioregionalism, and informed by the practice of looking for the sacred in everyday life.
Unlike most artists, I actually start with a frame and build my work inside it. I begin by arranging layers of maps and images for a base.  Topographical or aeronautical maps may be altered, copied, enlarged and/or stained with dyes I make from natural materials.
Images are then either drawn directly onto the maps or transferred using several different methods including solvent transfers and decal papers.  Text and quotes are added using these same transfer techniques.
Found objects are embedded by precisely cutting into the substrata of the art and sealing the objects into place. The finished piece of art is coated with several layers of acrylic and/or wax to protect the surfaces from dirt and sun.
My formal training is in jewelry/metalsmithing. I have enjoyed working in a variety of formats including jewelry and installation, as well as mixed media assemblage.  In all of these formats I am interested in layering, combining materials and attention to detail.
All of my work is meant to acknowledge and celebrate our connections to the world around us and the world within us. I believe the most important issue of our time is seeing our world and all things in it as an inter-connected whole, of which the human species is but one small part.