I grew up in Ontario, mostly in Toronto, and I spent my summers in the Gatineau’s (Que) with my grandparents. My aunt is an artist and she would often pick my brother and I up and take us to the National Gallery in Ottawa. When I was about seven years old I saw one of Jackson Pollock’s massive drip paintings and below it was an installation consisting of a long line of red ceramic shoes that lead to the painting. I have no idea who created the ceramic work and have tried researching this unsuccessfully over the years. I think seeing these works was pivotal for me in that they invited the viewer to play: I was enamored by the whimsical nature of the work.
In high school I took workshops at OCAD and credit courses at George Brown College. I have a BFA from Alberta University of the Arts (formally ACAD). I then went on to get my B.Ed at the University of Calgary. I have taught art to multiple age groups in the public school system for over twenty seven years. I recently retired from teaching and moved to beautiful Comox where I intend on focusing on my own art practice.
My art may be described as wall sculpture. I sometimes use found objects within my work and often cotton linters to expand the surface of the canvas. A mentor of mine and renowned sculptor once remarked that she thought I really wanted to be a sculptor. As a minimalist I love to have uncluttered floor space so prefer having my work on the wall. I very much strive for a high level of craftsmanship, although, appreciate the raw expression that is often created in the art of my students. For me art is a form of dialogue and creative problem solving; it is active and it has the possibility of multiple outcomes. My next few works will incorporate sensory elements of the sea.
I am very much looking forward to teaching at Lupine Art Studio and getting to know the people in my new community.