Textiles and sewing have woven their way into my life since childhood. My mother, a fantastic seamstress, would ask me to stand completely still while she carefully pinned her creations—a special occasion dress, a dreamed-of costume—for a perfect fit. Summer picnics were enjoyed on a quilt made decades prior by my dad’s grandmother from outgrown family clothing. I snuggled up each night with a favorite red and pink gingham quilt my mom’s mother made for me when I was born and rested my head on a pillowcase embroidered by my mother’s grandmother, an Italian immigrant. These items of clothing, quilts and housewares all served a practical purpose, but were so much more than functional. Each piece was a uniquely beautiful addition to our daily lives, and the love and creativity imbued in them was felt with every use.

While studying graphic design at Truman State University, I took a Fibers course as part of my BFA requirement. Right away, I felt a connection to the medium. The familiarity of fabric and sewing tied me to family tradition, and provided a way to express my individual perspective. I was hooked, and completed a dual major in Visual Communications and Fibers.

Like my maternal predecessors, I am interested in creating unique items that express identity and beauty, incorporating fabric that has served a previous, physical history as clothing and housewares. My work’s functional purpose, though, addresses the emotional needs of contemporary life. Sensuous color and familiar patterns work together in new ways to tell stories about character and purpose. While the stories conveyed draw from personal experiences, my hope is to connect with the desires and struggles of others, providing comfort, encouragement and joy.

GROUP EXHIBITIONS

• 2019 “On the Surface, On the Ramp” St. Louis Artists’ Guild, St. Louis, MO
• 2003 “Fiber Focus” Art Saint Louis, St. Louis, MO
• 2002 “Recent Works” The Gallery at University City Public Library, St. Louis, MO
• 2002 “Venus Envy” Lemp Brewery, St. Louis, MO
• 2001 “Live Girls” Truman State University, Kirksville, MO
• 2001 “BFA Visual Communications Portfolio Show” Truman State University, Kirksville, MO

You’re probably curious what I’ve been up to the last 16 years. Besides building a career in graphic design and creative direction in the corporate world, I fell in love, started a family and created a place to call home. The years have been full and happy, providing plenty of material for my next act in fibers. Stay tuned…