I began apprenticing in metal work at just fourteen years old and have worked with metal ever since. My grandparents were metalsmiths too, and they inspired me very much.
Beyond just metal work, I learned the art of beading, leather working, and Wampum Carving when I was small and have spent time improving my knowledge of these craft forms throughout my life. When I have the time, I love to sit down with my beads and create wearable art with them.
Over the years I have gone into other forms of metalwork as well, with casting, fabricating, wax working, stained glass and boat building (though I prefer wooden boats). But I always seem to come back to my jewelry. And, more specifically, the freeform/hand bent work you see in my shop today where I can take what I see in nature and create functional art designs around it.
I took a brief break from the metal working world for a few years, but couldn’t stay away for long. I created a workshop at home began and selling my work at craft shows and fairs. Eventually I was partners in running some very large, high traffic craft fairs within our community. Now, I am quite content making things at home and selling online, where I can take my craft with me wherever I go. My online customers are some of the nicest people I have ever known, and I'm so grateful that you all allow me to do what I love!.
