Artist's Statements:

The Wall Heart Series
Valentine-shaped hearts are the most common illustration of the idea of "heart." I have used them as multiple canvases, as meditations on the processes of creation and the myriad meanings of "heart." Several that represent the Kabbalistic view that there are many "names" for God, each having a different meaning and each set of three letters able to impart that meaning on one who meditates on them. Then, there are more traditional Hebrew words of blessing, 'Shalom' and 'Life,' which may also serve as a means of calming and focusing. Finally, there are different organic expressions; birds, leaves, butterflies. I believe that the heart encompasses all of these messages, and thousands more, which I hope to explore one at a time as this series expands.

The Toys Series
This series has been a way for me to return to my long-time love of toys. I have always found toys to be exciting in that they are unlimited. The lack of constraint in their design shows that frivolous can be expected, unusual is normal, and weird is par for the course. Fruit can grow wheels—houses can fly. And because these are ceramic toys, they become even more implausible, especially when they actually roll! They are “functional” in that sense. One thing that all toys have in common is the intention to create a sense of fun and growth. I have fostered this intention while creating them, and I am looking forward to where—and how—the series develops.

Human Heart Series
I have always been inspired by the mystery and anatomy
of the human heart. It conveys a profusion of
meanings; it has for thousands of years represented
the seat of emotion, a location where our feelings
dwell. The heart is a physical organ that each person
possesses, and would die without. Though the heart motif is constant in the pieces, the shapes and general themes vary
drastically. The process has led me, artistically and literally.

Exploration in the medium of ceramic sculpture has
been very exciting for me—and freeing. Since accepting
the effects of sensitization to epoxy resin and the
subsequent demise of my model fabrication career, this
has been the first time in years that I have felt safe
in an art studio. Finally I have the ability to feel
confident of the safety of my surroundings: it is a
studio space that I can call home. Perhaps that is why
the heart has returned in my artistic imagery; home is
where the heart is.