Artist’s Statement

I create colorful abstract collages based on my observations of my local pastoral  and coastal surroundings.

My creative journey began during childhood driving through New York State with my mother, an oil painter, who sparked my lifelong passion for illustrating nature’s beauty. For me, making landscapes is more than art—it’s a joyful bridge to family and the great outdoors, whether I’m soaking in the beauty of the Adirondacks or experiencing Sodus Bay in New York State and the Florida Gulf while hiking and biking.

Collage is my playground. I love to layer recycled and hand-painted paper alongside vintage fabrics to create bold, colorful abstract landscapes. Every piece is an adventure, blending textures, hues, and shapes to surprise and delight. Collage brings me peace and excitement, fueling both calm and creative challenges as I strive for an Impressionistic mien. In my lively beach collage, “Postcards from Aunt Dee,” everyday materials transform into sand, shells, and clouds, turning ordinary objects into extraordinary stories.

My process includes capturing local landscape scenes with my camera and then bringing these inspirations to life in my New York and Florida studios. I start with small thumbnail-sized sketches and then trace shapes onto my materials. Using an archival board set on an easel, I cut and arrange the shapes with repositionable glue. Once I determine the perfect placement, my vision is sealed with permanent adhesive and a brayer.

I appreciate and celebrate nature and the natural world every day. When I’m not creating art, I’m nurturing my garden, keeping a cozy home, enjoying good company, or sharing creative adventures with my granddaughter.