About the Artist

For the last 5 years, I have been exhibiting and selling my unique, hand-crafted art not only in my home state of California, but in different US states. Some of my customers reside in Scotland. The reaction, much to my pleasure and delight, has been overwhelmingly positive. Perhaps my work is so appreciated because I don't follow fashions or trends...I am proud to say that all my pieces are genuine one-offs, and unique.

My Background

From an early age I was highly imaginative and creative, culminating in my study of theatre, and a subsequent career in dance, which I also taught for 8 years.
However, the call to keep moving never quite abated,  and my next big change was working in technology. This diversification, very fortunately, took me around the world. From my travels and adventures, I garnered inspiration from a vast range of different cultures and their history. Visiting the many museums in my time-off I was simply fascinated by the Old Masters paintings and sculptures. Castles and historical buildings also drew me to them. I believe it was when I glimpsed the Crown Jewels in London that I felt inspired to re-create objects of beauty that reflected those masterpieces. Every individual piece of my art from my bespoke jewelled boxes, hand mirrors, shadow boxes and necklaces has an historical influence. The Medieval era is, of course, my favourite period, with royals such as Elizabeth I the focus.

My Style

My art is self-taught, and it thrills me that the art classes I now run are over-subscribed! My style is bringing Old Master's paintings to life once again. Borrowing from the age-old art of ‘decoupage’, I have added a new dimension to this technique: mixed media using acrylic paints, crackle finish, various paper motifs, foils, fine metal powders and embellishments; giving my objects d art the illusion of age.

The Techniques

From the initial concept, each piece takes around two weeks to make. I start with raw wood, or porcelain slip, and apply gesso, acrylic paint and sand to allow the object to adhere to the many layers of materials used.  Crackle always amazes me – my ambition is to achieve that "just found in an archaeological dig" effect and timing is everything.  The 3-D effect takes great patience and imagination. Gold leafing applied brings out all the nooks and crannies and 20 coats of gloss varnish finishing make it have that touch me quality.

My jewelry designs have many forms, from Celtic knotting to intricate beading making it have the look of old-world lace patterns. Resin and Decoupage form the pendants and brooches with sacred, magical, historical or allegorical significance.

Do browse my site, and I hope you find something that captures your heart.