About Me

Reflecting upon my earliest memory, I can't recall a time when I didn't want to be an artist. As I'm in my mid 40's now, I vividly remember, it was at the age of three when I first discovered art. My parents had given me a wonderful set of books Through Golden Windows. Among them was my favorite titled, "Mostly Magic," a book compiled of all of the traditional fairy tale stories.

Though just a child, my mind was held captive by all of the colorful fairy tale images. It was then that I took my own pen and pencil, and began making my own child-like markings next to them in the book. For I too, wanted to draw and create images, just like these. This was the moment when the magical door of creativity opened for me.

Although it's well worn, I still have and cherish this very same book today. Seeing it is a knowing reminder, that even at an early age, my inner spirit held the desire to be an artist.

As an adult, having tried my skills at many different mediums though the years, I found there was always one common thread among my works of art, that theme centered around the human face and anatomy.

It wasn't until 1996 that I discovered the world of Art Dolls through polymer clay. As I began working with this new medium, I knew I was hopelessly hooked and had found the medium for me. As my hands worked and refined the clay, it became only natural that faces and figures would gradually begin to emerge. It's through this process that each piece seemingly takes on a life and expression of its own.

Although I am largely self-taught, it's not been until recent years that I've had the honor and privilege of attending classes and seminars led by some of the most respected artists in the world of Art Dolls. All of which I extend my gratitude, for it's been through their direction, encouragement, and insight that has helped to further my skills as a doll artist.

From my home studio, just outside of the Kansas City area, is where I continue to create. It is there that I give way to my own sense of imagination and creativity, bringing to life many of the images that continue to fill my mind.


2000
Active Member of Midwest Coalition of Original Doll Artists
Class Seminar: Cynthia Baron Workshop- Anatomy
2001
Active Member of Midwest Coalition of Original Doll Artists
Serving on the Committee of the Kansas City Doll Fair
Serving on the Committee of the Kansas City Doll Fair
Class Seminar: Marilynn Huston Workshop- The Articulated Figure
2002
Vice-President for the Midwest Coalition of Original Doll Artists
Serving on the Committee of the Kansas City Doll Fair
Serving as the Competition Coordinator for the Kansas City Doll Fair
Class Seminar: Diane Keeler Workshop- Creating a Custom Wig
2003
Vice-President for the Midwest Coalition of Original Doll Artists
Serving on the Committee of the Kansas City Doll Fair
Serving as the Competition Coordinator for the Kansas City Doll Fair
Class Seminar: Barbara VanNoy Workshop- The Art of Skin Texturing
2004
President for the Midwest Coalition of Original Doll Artists
Serving on the Committee of the Kansas City Doll Fair
Serving as the Competition Coordinator for the Kansas City Doll Fair
Class Seminar: Diane Keeler Workshop- Sculpting a Child's Head
Class Seminar: Diane Keeler Workshop- Sculpting a Woman's Head
2005
President for the Midwest Coalition of Original Doll Artists
2006
Newsletter Editor for the Midwest Coalition of Original Doll Artists
2008
February 2008 Froudian Artist of the Month Award by World of Froud


 


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