Using silver, copper, and brass, my work is inspired by things spiritual and ancient, reflecting our connection to all beings. Petroglyph designs such as spirals and hand shapes; inspiration from nature such as a crow against the moon, wolves, and cats; and images of women dancing and hearts are all expressions of deep emotion, feelings that I could not express using other materials.

I create silver jewelry and copper-covered blank books as well as bookmarks of silver, copper, or brass. Each piece is individually made and hand cut, designed and produced by the artist. My sterling-silver jewelry has an organic feel and a distinctive oxidized finish that adds an unpredictable wash of gold, red, pink, and blue-black, making each piece unique. I start by drawing a design, transferring it to a sheet of silver, and cutting it out. The piece, perhaps a crow shape, is fused with a torch onto another sheet of silver, possibly a circle for the moon. The heat of the torch makes the silver bubble and buckle, creating texture and curves. After I add the pin back, jump ring or other finishing, I oxidize the piece by dipping it into a special solution or by adding the solution to selected areas. This brings out a range of colors that
differs for each piece.

The books have copper covers with a hand-cut silver design or a stamped spiral. Motifs include crow, hands, wolf, and heart. The covers are heated with a torch as the final process, causing a flow of color to bloom on the copper. Bound with two rings that open, the fancy paper or photo pages inside can be added to or replaced. The books, guaranteed for life, can be used as photo albums, address or phone books, journals, notebooks, or guest books.

Sinuous silver, copper, and brass shapes make wonderful bookmarks. I bend heavy-gauge wire with pliers into such shapes as spirals, cats, notes of music, and steaming cups, hammer them flat on an anvil, and then polish them. Part of each design hooks over the top or bottom of a page to mark the place.

I have always worked with my hands, from doing carpentry as a child with my father to drawing, painting, knitting, and other crafts. An adult-education class introduced me to silversmithing, which expressed my feelings and ideas better than other medium. I design and produce all my work and value the challenge of earning my living by doing what I love. I am currently exploring the addition of semiprecious stones and tumbled glass to my jewelry.

May each day bring unexpected joy,
May you be happy and peaceful of heart