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I have worked in various media such as acrylics, pen & ink, pencil and pastels but my primary fascination and passion since childhood has always been glass. Glass is a medium that presents many challenges but the dynamic quality of a finished piece gives me a sense of satisfaction that other media don't. I love the effect that light has on a piece of glass, the many moods that can be expressed throughout the day as that light changes and how that transmitted light can enhance an environment.
I received my BSBA in Management from Christopher Newport University in 1976. I worked for several years in bookkeeping, accounting and administrative work, continuing to paint and draw during my off hours and I finally began working in glass in 1980. Along the way I have done some glass blowing and fusing but I have focused my attention primarily on multiple depth sand carving and stained glass, frequently combining these techniques in the same piece. My sand carving technique is completely self taught. I took only a brief introductory course in stained glass but I don't really do anything the way I was taught. I do all of my own original design work and while I feel my particular talent is as an artist/designer, I take great pride in my craftsmanship and do all of my own fabrication and hand cut all of my own stencils.
In 2002, I was selected to represent the State of Virginia by designing an ornament for the White House Christmas Tree. This ornament (IMG0103) is included in the Permanent Ornament Collection of The White House. As part of the honor, I was invited to a reception at the White House hosted by First Lady Laura Bush who graciously provided each artist with a photo "op" in front of the tree. After the event, I wrote a brief (sort of) account of my impressions, observations, and reflections. If you have got this far in your reading, you might be interested in the details. Continuing the 'Christmas' theme, in 2003 I was selected to create a set of three ornaments for the Virginia Governors Mansion Christmas Tree.
Through the years I have worked with many clients to create work for numerous churches, restaurants, and homes. My work is in the collections of Boyd Tinsley of Dave Mathews Band fame and I have designed pieces for the home of Kate McGee, Vice President of Corporate Affairs for Oracle.
I exhibit my work in several galleries and I participate in approximately 20 art shows and festivals each year where I enjoy meeting people who love art and who often commission me to do special pieces for them. I have received over 50 awards for my work.
My other passions are Martial Arts, Eighteenth Century Dancing and poetry. I have been a member of the Greater Japan Martial Arts Association since 1981 and have been an instructor of Shorin Ken Classical Japanese Karate since 1985. I am currently in charge of a program offered through Newport News Parks and Recreation at Reservoir Middle school. I have been involved with English Country Dancing since 1993 and while my schedule doesn't let me participate as often as I would like, I enjoy going to balls and practice sessions every chance I get.
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