Artist Statement

I have been making mobiles for about seven years out of various materials: aluminum, stainless steel, brass, wood, card stock and found objects. My work includes both representational and nonrepresentational sculptures in motion and is heavily influenced by Alexander Calder and has curved shapes, clean lines, and abstract designs. Many of the mobiles are based on geometric shapes.

I consider myself a serious amateur on the verge of becoming a professional artist. My interests are varied, and the materials I use to express my ideas run the full gamut of contemporary artistic practice. My most recent work is inspired by the art works of both Kandinsky and Miro. It is both complex, yet well balanced.

In July 2009, I started a small soy candle company, Brainerd Lakes Artisan Candles (featured in the November 15, 2009, Business and Money, Brainerd Dispatch). I purchase pots, made to my specifications, from local potters (primarily Cyrus Swann) and pour soy wax candles. My business background and creative marketing skills makes the business successful and affords me the opportunity to explore other artistic disciplines and mature as an artist. The candles can be found exclusively at the Crossing Arts Sales and Gift Gallery and Christmas Point.

On ceramics:

There is nothing more liberating and satisfying then to take a clump of clay and create something out of it, whether it be functional or sculptural. My experience with clay was both satisfying and frustrating, in the sense that I had to become one with the clay, letting it speak to me (and sometimes it screams at me, if I don’t pay attention, it will fight me). Thanks to the experience and patience of my instructor, Kyle Kruchten, who kept me balanced, I was able to create several pieces I am very proud of.

On painting:

Inspiration. This works either one of two ways for me. I can see a piece of artwork and I am focused on creating a mobile out of it or I create the mobile first, then I am inspired to paint my interpretation of the piece onto canvas.