About:

In the early seventies, I moved to Maine, bought an old abandoned farm-house, put in a large garden, and started what would become a forty two year career as a high school counselor. Summers of gardening and house projects were a great balance for the intensity of the school year and inspired me to look for other creative venues. I learned to knit, and I took pottery classes. I crafted jewelry for a number of years until a hand injury made it difficult to continue. It was at that point that a friend introduced me felting on silk which then lead to painting on silk and finally to eco and botanical printing. I have taken courses in Maine, Florida, and online, read extensively and of course experimented. My retirement five years ago has allowed me the time not only to garden and do the endless house maintenance, but also to immerse myself in a creative process that has captivated me.

Artist Statement:

The colors, textures and shapes found in nature have always filled me with appreciation, wonder and joy. The discovery of eco and botanical printing felt like a natural fit as it allowed my passion for gardening to be a source for inspiration and materials. Although I have printed on cotton, linen and paper, my favorite medium is silk as the way plant colors interact with this strong, breathable and gorgeous fabric is often astonishing. The dyes I use are all natural and most of the plant material is locally sourced. Many leaves and flowers will stain a fabric but most will not leave a detailed print. And, leaves print differently in the spring and fall and whether they are placed up or down. Moisture and the actual dye used can dramatically affect the image. I’m curious and love to learn. This process presents an infinite number of experimental possibilities and the journey is magical for me.