Bio, lampworker, silversmith

I grew up on the gulf coast of MS and lived there until a hurricane named “Camille” came along in 1969. Shortly after that I moved to Atlanta where I have lived and worked in medical sales for the past thirty years. My most vivid memories while growing up are those of crabbing, fishing, sailing and spending lazy days on the beach and back bayous. My daughter and her husband and my grandchildren reside there now and we love visiting. I accepted an outside laboratory sales position last year with a wonderful company in order to be closer to the things I love, so I'm spending most of my time traveling N. FL and South AL. and enjoying what I consider to be the richest years of my life. The ability to create and be with the ones I love takes care of most problems. I am blessed!

I have always loved art, painting, and mixing mediums but never dreamed I would settle into any one area of art least of all be able to share that in so many ways. In December of 2000 a good friend asked me to take a lampworking class with her. I knew instantly this is what I would be spending all of my free time doing. I believe we must listen to that inner voice (or a very good friend) when it speaks! So my studies began. Through Atlanta's local Southern Flames chapter I have had the good fortune of selecting instructors whose work I admire. Most recently Heather Trimlett, Bronwyn Heilman and Loren Stump, just to drop a few names! I am also taking an intensive forging class from John Cogswell (a Master Silversmith) in Feb. I spend much of my time studying, reading and practicing various techniques and gain new appreciation for the diversity of glass and silver each day. I have a B.S. in Biology so I tend to create pieces that replicate living things. I create a range of items from simple round beads and cabochons to fan pulls, knobs and complicated animal figures. My favorite pieces to create usually have something to do with creatures that are indigenous to the Coast of Mississipppi. Well, with my own artistic 'twist' on it. Molten Glass will always let you know what it wants to 'become' as you work with it.

My style continues to change as I follow the path of least resistance and listen to that inner voice (as well as a few spiritual teachers and good friends). I find that I particularly love combining glass and silver. I am fortunate to be surrounded by many trained talents that share their knowledge of silver and glass mediums unselfishly and I try to do the same for others. I will offer private classes upon request.