[ Online Gallery ]
For 2 weeks in January 2004, I was an artist-in-residence at the Red Cinder Creative Center in the Big Island of Hawaii. During that period, I created work that related to unique nature and culture of that island. I created imaginary flowers and plants from mixed media that reflected our "exotic" notions of Hawaii. In reality, many Hawaiian plants and animals are rapidly becoming endangered and even extinct. Unfortunately, this also applies to the culture and traditions of native Hawaiians. I am interested in native Hawaiian textiles and jewelry, particularly feather work. These influences are evident in some of these pieces. After completing the residency, I have continued to work on new pieces in this series.
[ Online Gallery ]
[ Cool Light: An Icelandic Voyage ] a photographic journal
I was fortunate to spend nearly two months in Iceland. Here I encountered mysterious and seemingly impossible landscapes filled with raw nature, from craters and glaciers to black sand beaches and lava fields. During this time, I lived in Hafnarfjordur, a town directly south of Reykjavik. I experienced a distinctive culture and saw provocative artwork. Additionally, I was able to explore other regions of the country and saw the diversity of the island. As well as gaining considerable inspiration from the landscapes and scenery, I also became familiar with Icelandic art by visiting numerous museums and galleries. Icelandic art and design challenged me to reconsider the beauty of simplicity and elegance. As a result, I feel that my artwork is going through a metamorphosis as I continue to explore themes from nature. My experience in Iceland has had a deep effect on the way that I look at my work.
