I grew up in the plains of Eastern Montana and was fortunate enough to be given the freedom to run, to roam and to explore. These are privileges that only a child of a small rural community can know. I was intrigued and captivated by the wildlife, native plants, and open vistas of the Great Plains. It's a land whose quiet and peacefulness still calls to me.

My rural background comes into play in my art. I create whimsical creatures based on our desert environment. I discovered my medium by salvaging Styrofoam building material that had blown into the arroyo behind my home. First, I simply designed and cut out shapes and learned to mosaic them. Later, I learned to sculpt the Styrofoam to create more three-dimensional and realistic creatures. Each of my creatures is unique, and I constantly experiment with materials such as clay, stucco, brushes and feathers to mimic their real-world features.

I love the process of making art. It’s a process that pulls you in and holds you captive. It cuts out the noise and distractions of everyday life and teaches you to pay closer attention to the world around you. Creating art brings me calmness, focus and peace, and in return I want my art to give others the gift of happiness and make them smile.