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Artist Statement and Highlights
I document agricultural heritage and uniquely iconic landscapes through drawing. Based in Maryland, I travel to fascinating locations exploring fields, historic farms, grain stories, and dramatic lands. I draw primarily in charcoal, graphite, pastel, and more recently, color pencil constructing an interplay of lines, textures, and contrasts while simultaneously shining a light on the new grain revival.
As the daughter of a microbiologist and a Foreign Service officer, I was born in Holland and grew up living and traveling throughout Europe and Turkey. My parents are internationally renowned for first importing the Akbash and Kangal Dogs of Turkey to North America and instilled in me the desire to connect places with meaningful narratives. Our expat assignments profoundly impacted me by offering up visits to countless world heritage sites and international immersion. Family weekends were spent at our research basecamp near the edge of the Sivrihisar River in Central Anatolia, Turkey. Naturally, my own present day approach to field research is just as much about seeking out adventures and making discoveries, as it is about creating art that will have a meaningful impact on the viewer. In my work I explore lines, shadows, and textures weaving together representation with stylistic inventiveness while revealing hidden narratives for the viewer.
I earned a BS in Art Education K-12 from Skidmore College, NY and a MA in Drawing from SUNY. I have enjoyed teaching art for 30 years in public and private schools, art studios, and museums. I hold a Permanent Teacher’s Certification in Art Education K-12 from NY State. Balancing studio time with drawing, field research, teaching, and jurying exhibitions is an endless adventure. Married for twenty-three years and a mother of two sons, I also enjoy organic gardening and fishing in the Chesapeake Bay with my husband.
Inspiration
Agricultural fields and lyrical passages beckon me to look beyond their surfaces. I document specific landmarks and create detailed images from my own field observations by traveling to location and photographing my subjects. Over time I developed a deep admiration for farmers and their grit.
My studio practice uses drawing to put a spotlight on the new grain revival that is weaving a tapestry of connections among places and people who shape our food systems and sustainability choices. I feature landscapes and related themes from the Palouse to Europe which are united in a deep respect for heritage and cultural identity.
Techniques
Composing drawings is my strategic game of shadows, leading lines, and grainy textures. For me, charcoal and graphite are major players in the art of velvety values and subtle gradations of light. I “sculpt” images with charcoal on the paper using blenders, brushes, fingers, and sliced erasers while leaving the lightest areas alone. Building up in graphite requires interchanging layers of soft and hard pencils while blending with stumps. Pastel and colored pencil play a cameo role in some drawings and in other images they hang out emboldened with light.
career highlights
I have participated in solo, juried, and invitational shows in the US and Europe. A few highlights include The US Embassy “HUB” in Brussels, Belgium, The Palais de Tokyo Museum in Paris, CARAVAN: The National Cathedral in Washington, DC, The Albany Institute of History and Art, The Schenectady Museum, The Foundry, STL250, The Mohawk Hudson Regional, Art St.LOUIS XXIX, and The Murals at Phillips Place Theatre in Charlotte. My work was selected for ABC’s “Extreme Home Makeover” North Idaho home. In addition, my charcoals were featured in set design while performing as the actress in a commercial spot for NC Healthcare Systems. Featured artist covers include Willow Springs Journal, Inlander Magazine, and Wildhorse Living.
My art business has been designated as a "Trusted Art Seller" with The Art Storefronts Organization, which means you can shop with confidence, and know that I stand behind the quality and value of my products.
