Artist Statement – Collage

My creative process relies upon experimentation, serendipity, and exploration of materials to express the energy that celebrates life in all its mystery and paradox.  Zen concepts, found objects, handmade and hand stained paper are the cornerstones and catalysts for each of my collages.

Harmony, balance and mindfulness gleaned from training in Sumi-e, meditation and Chi Gong also pervade my work. I incorporate the Enso – Japanese for circle – in most of my collages; as a spiritual symbol it represents the absolute, the true nature of existence and enlightenment. 

Diminutive in size, my collages are showcased in shadow box frames that accommodate their bas relief nature and layer several ideas and concepts into a small physical space.

                             PMC (Precious Metal Clay)

From the expansive brush strokes I use in my sumi-e to composing small collage assemblage, the PMC jewelry is even a more diminutive art form. When I attended the National Enamelist Conference at The Evergreen State College recently, I rekindled my graduate school love of silver smithing.  I learned to use PMC [Precious Metal Clay] to make silver jewelry. The door to creating three-dimensional art opened for me.

Developed by Mitsubishi Corporation from the silver reclaimed from developing photography and x ray film, the fine silver residue is combined with a binder which burns off when the PMC is fired.  The resulting product is 99.9% pure silver.  What appeals to me is using ceramic techniques on miniature products and the small amount of finish work required. 

I love the ease of assembling delicate pieces and the organic feel of the clay.  I can execute ideas and concepts in a way I can’t get from any other jewelry technique. My work is currently split into two distinct collections: designs featuring faces – green man  and representations of Japanese deities such as autumn, winter, and love to name a few;  and organic series, inspired by nature, often using real leaves or other natural objects. Both take advantage of different features of metal clay.