I create art that makes people smile.  I use bright color and whimsical imagery to bring joy to people’s lives. Smiling releases hormones in our bodies which evoke happiness by improving our mood and sense of well-being.  Smiling also reduces the amount of stress hormones in our bodies which lowers any anxiety and relaxes us.  I can think of no better function of art than to bring joy and laughter into our world and that is my aim.

  

I have always been drawn to bright colors, silly stories and whimsical imagery.   In kindergarten, when my class painted penguins, I gave each black and white penguin an orange belly button. Growing up in southern California, I am heavily influenced by the bright colors of Mexican folk art.  As an adult I enjoy the whimsical themes of folk art from around the world, especially those that include animals. In my work, I often juxtapose disparate objects that normally aren’t seen together to elicit a humorous response. Each of my pieces is infused with the joy I felt while making it, and my wish is that it brings that same joy to others for years to come. 

 

I believe that every person should own at least one piece of art whether it be a simple bowl or elaborate sculpture.  To this end, I often create functional art such as platters or vases that can be used, but also displayed when not in use.  How lovely to serve dinner on a colorful platter and then display it on a nearby sideboard or to show off fresh cut flowers in a whimsical vase that you keep out all year with an arrangement of dried flora!