PROCESS

As a perpetual student, I thrive on experimentation and challenge. Subject matter is deeply internalized but my work reflects a reverence for nature and evolves through intuition and spontaneity. I use random thoughts in a stream of consciousness. One step leads to another.

TECHNIQUES

Clothing and fine art pieces are created using a variety of surface design, drawing, painting, and printing techniques. Dupont French dyes, which are known for their luminosity, add color. Images are screen-printed, sometimes dyed, and/or discharged-- a process used to remove color from fabric.

INSPIRATION

I love texture. I love layers. Metaphorically speaking, layers of color and texture reflect the rich depth and layers of life as well as my natural surroundings. I’m influenced by the shapes and colors of sunsets, clouds, bluffs, and rock formations in the desert where I live, as well as interesting locations I travel to.

CARE OF SILK

It is not always necessary to dry clean silk. Silk has been around longer than dry cleaners, and the label is often used for self-protection. It is easier to label silk clothing “dry clean” than take the time to give instructions for hand washing. Silk fabrics I have hand dyed have already gone through several washing processes so will wash well. A few exceptions: I dry clean garments that are structured or contain mixed fibers— such as silk and leather or upholstery combinations or those fabrics that might shrink or run.

Hand washing instructions for silk:

1. Wash in lukewarm water with a mild soap, shampoo or Dawn dish detergent. Do not use shampoos with heavy fragrances or conditioners. Do not use Woolite!

2. Let the fabric soak for a few minutes then plunge the fabric up and down a few times to agitate.

3. Rinse the fabric several times with lukewarm water until all soap is removed

4. Squeeze water out gently. Remove excess water by wrapping in a towel.

5. To avoid wrinkles, press with a medium-hot iron while damp-- silk dries very quickly.

6. To remove stubborn wrinkles, spray with water or re-dampen the fabric. Press carefully with a hot iron.

7. Garments printed with metallic paints should be pressed carefully on low-medium heat-- on the backside or use a press cloth to cover.

8. Garments or scarves made from velvet or devore fabrics should be placed face down on a bath towel and pressed from the backside with medium heat.

9. Use Dawn dish detergent for spot cleaning before washing.