I am a wire bender, creator and explorer. My trees, figures, and non-representational works are made from repurposed copper wire from the scrapyard, steel wire and found objects.
In any tree I create, the same wire forms the branches, trunk, and roots. The connectivity between the stability and nourishment of the roots, the stalwart trunk, and the branches reaching for sunshine and rain are metaphor for each of us. We also balance being rooted in our family, friends, and history; strong in our daily lives; and ever-reaching for goals and dreams.
I retired from a 45-year career as a registered nurse to create art and manage Trackside Studios, a collective of artists in working studios and gallery spaces. During my nursing career, I connected with wire because it reminded me of interactions with patients - we may have plans we want them to follow, but - like crafting with wire - they have their own plans which must be respected.