Working with materials that have transformative properties, such as clay, metal and textiles, I create sculptural works that are visual abstractions of myself as a woman; that explore issues of identity, memory, and the impermanence of self. Many times taking the shape of a half-sphere, these forms represent my ability to hold, support, and contain those things that I value most while remaining open, exposed and vulnerable to change.

I am fascinated by the innate duality that exists within metal. By nature, it has a rigid composition, but when manipulated by heat, it’s state of being transforms. Once molten, it loses its structural integrity as a solid and takes on the characteristics of a liquid, becoming malleable and fluid. Clay is similarly metamorphic by the way it can be dried, rehydrated, and fired to create something entirely new. Clay’s ability to record movement and gesture upon its surface is particularly engaging to me.

As we age, we are left with vestiges of thoughts- memories of a life that no longer exists. We are in a perpetual state of transition from one state of consciousness to the next. By grafting, binding, and welding these materials together, I use the remnants to create sculptural assemblages that serve as a symbolic bridge between my selfhood of today to the the liminal space of tomorrow. Each iteration is equally referential and abstract, and serve as containers for space, composition and the inherent congruency and contradictions between my past and the present.

Education

Chicago Industrial Arts & Design Center, Chicago, Illinois Steel Fabrication, Metal Forming & Casting 2020-Present

ViaClay Ceramic Studio, Oak Park, Illinois 2022-Present

School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois BFA in Sculpture + Fiber & Material Studies 2004

SAIC, Advanced Fiber & Materials Studies Studio, 2003-2004

Studio Assistant for Artist Candida Alvarez, 2003-2004

Oxbow School of Arts, Foundry, Saugatuck, MI, 2003

Italian Study Abroad: Florence, Milan, Lucca & Venice (Beinnale) 2003