I have always identified myself as an artist. My earliest childhood memories are in relation to paint, brushes, paper, clay, canvas, cloth and thread. Though my work can take many different forms, I am best known for my teapots which are created from ceramics, fiber or a combination of both.

I use many techniques to create ceramic teapots: throwing on the wheel; hand-building; press molds and slip cast molds; photo silk screening for image transfer on clay; painting and airbrushing; using China paints; lace draping.

For years, I have been drawn to ceramics. I cherish the feel of clay, the challenge of effecting deep, miraculous transformation, from wet clay to leather-hard, greenware, bisque, fired clay and glaze.

I fall in love with each stage as I am also compelled to bring it to its next manifestation. Sometimes, it feels that as the clay transforms, so do I – as if I am being molded, shaped, fired – a feeling both frightening and exhilarating. A part of this transformation was a kindling in me of a memory that though ceramics has been my passion; my first love is working with fiber – sewing, quilting, felting and fabric painting.

My love of fiber arts derives from my fondest memories of my grandmother, my “Nanny.” I spent hours with her in the upstairs room of her home where I watched her – and later learned from her – on her wonderful treadle sewing machine. That machine was itself a work of art. So was my grandmother. My memory is so vivid of her sitting with her foot pumping the pedal, the staccato hum of the machine, the sparkle of threads, the soft give of the cloth, my grandmother’s scent. I love the feel of fabric, the smell of it– the joy of soft transcendence, the sound of the machine – purring and humming its love.

In the unfolding of the history of my work, I feel the conflicting passions for clay and for fiber being played out in form, subject, texture and intent. Within the constraints of the elements of the teapot the eye is drawn and challenged to embrace the elements of fabric, metals, music and message. I am satisfied when the task of discovering harmony in disparity and contrast is as much an act of imagination for the beholder as it was for me as the artist.

Time doesn’t matter to me. I work on several pieces at once, sometimes for months, even years. Each finished art work is unique. To me, the success of a piece is the love and connection I feel during its creation. My goal is to learn and grow with each of my creations, to perceive new insights that go beyond shape, color or technique.

My work is an extension of my faith. I create because I was blessed with a sacred gift – as I believe we all are. Creating art is my way of thanking God for the gift bestowed upon me. Creating is a hallowed place I enter to touch my Higher Source. My art is my means of expressing love, beauty, truth and faith. My studio is my sanctuary. My work is my prayer.