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"Everything has
two sides - the outside that is ridiculous, and the inside that is solemn."
- Olive Schreiner, writer
I came across the above quote and thought it summed up my artistic philosophy
very well. I work in two styles: mixed media"crazy" mosaics and handmade
Zen Tiles. For me it is a joy to move between these two styles because
it reflects a balance that is found in art and in life.
Working in mixed media mosaics is exciting because it offers me the opportunity
to find unique materials. I scour rummage sales and thrift stores looking
for gems - sometimes the more outrageous the better. It's satisfying to
know that these recycled materials find new life in my work, and I enjoy
seeing people react to the elements in each piece. It's fun to see their
faces light up when they encounter my animal sculptures, and it's gratifying
to know that I brought a smile to their day. In creating mixed media work,
I like to step back and enjoy the playfulness of each unique piece as
it develops. The work brings a smile to my day as well.
Zen Tiles are my signature pieces, and the meditative process of creating
them provides me with an artistic retreat. Working with the wet clay,
cutting the shapes, glazing and loading each piece into the kiln allows
time for reflection. After the tiles are made, I mindfully select each
piece to create balance among shapes and colors until the work is complete.
I feel deeply connected to the Zen Tile work as the most personal form
of my artistic expression. During my career I have experimented with
other artistic mediums, but once I created my first mosaic piece eight
years ago, I never looked back. Mosaic work is a medium that offers limitless
possibilities with regard to ideas, materials and applications. I only
wish there were more hours in the day to create this dynamic work.
612-423-9197 |
 
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