The trajectory that has led me to the artist I am today is anything but conventional. I attended the Art Institute of Chicago from 1990 to 1994 and worked as an artist for six years following graduation, but in 2000, my life was turned upside down, and I saw my dreams of being an artist fade away. I began working in construction, and this unknowingly turned into a career restoring historic homes in St. Louis. After 10 years, I was burnt out and took a break, which gave me time to rediscover my love of creating. What I quickly realized once I began working as an artist again is that I was able to incorporate materials and techniques that I used in construction into my art.

Over the past 12 years, I have pushed my work using non-traditional materials, tools, and processes. Creating art for me is an experience, and I like to include others in my process. I believe that art isn’t contained by only artists and communicating my process with others is a critical part of my work. I find this collaborative approach enhances the viewing and understanding of art making.