Artist Statement and Education

Artist Statement

Telling the stories of my life has become the wellspring of inspiration for my artistic endeavors. Having grown up in the enchanting world of a jewelry store and later becoming a certified gemologist, my lens has been trained to appreciate the outer glamour and inner intricacies of gemstones through both the innocence of childhood and the discernment of professional training. The “Beauty Within” series, an ode to the captivating allure of these precious stones, seeks to unravel the dual facets of nature’s creations—the glittering exterior that beckons desire and the timeless, kaleidoscopic beauty concealed within. Using acrylic paint and gel as my primary mediums, I create a multidimensional experience, akin to peering into an expertly crafted gemstone. Metallic paint reflects light for a luxurious quality, acrylic gel adds texture, wrinkled papers lend depth, and acrylic paint shapes the space. The interaction of these elements, guided by the forces of nature, results in layers of astonishing effects that mirror the dynamic interplay between art and the inherent beauty of gemstones.

 

As a mother of two musically gifted children, the journey of nurturing their passion has become a profound source of artistic exploration. The “Imperfect Perfection” series, born out of their daily violin and cello practices, captures the essence of their dedication and the challenges faced on the path to musical mastery. Motivated by their persistent pursuit of perfection, unwavering concentration, and the inevitable struggles that accompany learning an instrument, I meticulously document their progress. Influenced by avant-garde expressionists like A-Sun Wu, Egon Schiele, Jim Dine, and Kathe Kollwitz, my work in this series is an expressive endeavor, delving into the unique characteristics of facial muscles as well as the collaborative spirit shared among musicians. It is an intimate portrayal not only of my children’s musical journey but a reflection of the broader narrative of all music learners and the communities that support and nurture them.

 

In the realm of portraiture, innovation takes center stage as I challenge tradition and explore new avenues in capturing the complexities of human emotions. The “Portraiture” series is a testament to my fascination with the intricate details of facial muscles—length, thickness, orientation, location, and tension—all carefully arranged to convey a myriad of emotions, from the subtle nuances of happiness to the profound depths of sadness. Influenced by my mentor, the renowned Fauvist A-Sun Wu, and inspired by artists like Egon Schiele, Jim Dine, and Kathe Kollwitz, my work in this series leans towards expressiveness. It is an exploration of the interplay between tradition and innovation, breaking away from conventional norms to offer a fresh perspective on the art of capturing human expression through drawing and painting. In each stroke, I seek to bring forth a dynamic portrayal of the human spirit, creating a visual narrative that invites the viewer to delve into the intricate dance of emotions that define us as individuals.

Education

  • 2004 – 2007 Bachelor of Fine Arts (Magna Cum Laude), Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon
  • 2000 – 2004 Associate of Art in Fine Arts, Linn Benton Community College, Albany, Oregon
  • 1992 – 1993 Certified Graduate Gemologist and Jewelry Designer, Gemological Institute of America, Santa Monica, California