Bio

Artist Statment

Paper possesses a unique duality—both fragile and resilient—mirroring the delicate balance found in the natural world, especially in these uncertain times. This contrast is what initially drew me to work with paper, and it continues to captivate my creative practice. I am fascinated by exploring this equilibrium and its connection to my surroundings. It’s the same sense of calm one feels while watching a sunset over the ocean, or the quiet reflection in a kayak as a leaf floats by, balanced against the awe of nature's power, like the erosion that shapes the Grand Canyon. Through working with paper, I reflect on this connection to the earth, using natural plant materials as my primary medium.

The medium of paper pulp is versatile, allowing for a multitude of forms and applications. While traditional papermaking techniques have been refined over centuries, I view them as a foundation rather than a constraint. My practice includes studying these time-honored methods but also pushing beyond them to develop my own techniques. I combine the classic approach of pulling paper with experimental methods like dipping, spraying, molding, and layering. It is thrilling to be among the artists who are bringing this unique medium into a contemporary context. 

Paper-making is a transformative process—breaking down and rebuilding to create something entirely new. It is a medium that still has much to teach me. Recently, I completed my second solo show centered on paper as the primary medium, and I am eager to delve deeper into the origins and life cycles of the plant materials I use. I want to understand the native environments of these plants, their roles within ecosystems, and how to harvest them sustainably for paper-making. My aim is to create art that speaks to both the fragility and strength of the natural materials that shape it, offering a visual meditation on the enduring relationship between nature and art.