Botanical Specimen Sculptures
After receiving a special grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, a new sculptural collection has been created. Drawing inspiration from nature observations and botany/mycology research, these intricate pieces have many hidden features and meanings to be discovered. Each has been hand crafted to reflect sacred forest memories and capture a moment of calm. These sculptures were on display at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in 2022.
Wall Sculptures
Just the start to an ocean collection. Similar to insects, these crustaceans are fascinatingly intricate to sculpt.
Containers
Shinrin-yoku, a Japanese term that means “taking in the forest atmosphere”, has been very influential in my clay work.
I adore creating realistic still life scenes that capture the essence of a moment before it drifts away. Nature has a profound way of making oneself feel present and alive. To share this fleeting sensation of awe and admiration of botanicals, fungi, insects etc. is my intention to convey with each piece created.
Mycorrhiza / Root Study Sculptures
Mycorrhiza - A mutually beneficial, symbiotic relationship between fungus and plant which takes place around the plant’s roots. Restoration of wild, native woodland could not take place without these complex, fascinating and hidden partnerships.
These works have been inspired by symbiotic associations/connections between trees and fungus. Coiling, carving and reconstruction of wheel thrown textural pieces are just some of the clay techniques used to create these sculptures. By replicating the natural cohesion of root and mycelium, the forms develop organically. Essentially created from one chunk of clay these pieces exemplify the idea of working together to mutually support one another.
