Artist Biography:

I have been artistic since I was a small child. While at Eastern Kentucky University I had my first experience at fabricating jewelry under the supervision of my professor, Tim Glotzbach. From then on I was hooked. After graduation I worked at various retail stores for approximately twelve years. While in the retail stores I experienced selling, merchandising, management, design, and goldsmithing. Then in 2003 I displayed at my first Art Show, and there was no turning back! I started doing shows full time a couple of years ago and I love it! I am currently a juried member of the Kentucky Guild of Artists and Craftsmen and the Kentucky Craft Marketing Program.

Artist statement of process:

My current jewelry designs are both delicate and functional. I hand fabricate pendants, beads, and charms from fine silver Precious Metal Clay. The silver is hand formed, textured, and then fired in a kiln at 1650 degrees. Many of the pieces are then Enameled with a vitreous glass enamel by fusing the glass onto the metal. This is also done in the kiln at a very high temperture. The pieces are then suspended on carefully hand wire wrapped chains. I hand select both freshwater pearls and natural gemstones to incorporate into my work. By combining different colors and textures, each piece has a distinct and unique personality.