618-893-2216 by appointment

What do you get when you cross a tennis player with an artist? An artist blacksmith. Throw in a lifetime gardener and that blacksmith works in an organic style with a nature theme. The first time I struck iron, I was smitten. There is something wonderfully indescribable about the energy exchange that takes place while blacksmithing. The heat from the fire and the force of the hammer's blow feed and energize me.

My primary material is mild steel. I particularly enjoy using pipe. This hollow material gives an impression of mass without the actual weight and provides an additional surface (the interior) with its own potential to be worked. It is a form that requires a gentle and patient hammer blow, so it doesn't collapse.  Currently, I use only recycled pipe; the other ends are running around in John Deere tractors.

The versatility of mild steel allows it to take the bold shapes usually associated with my iron work, as well as the soft, feminine lines for which I strive. My work often contains botanical references, and I create images that evoke continuing growth. Each heat of the metal offers an opportunity to explore. The results can be unexpected, opening up an entirely new path leading to the spontaneity evident in many of my creations.

Then there is the fascination of forge welding. I am amazed every time I successfully perform this weld, in which two or more pieces are heated to 2600 degrees, carefully introduced to each other and firmly hammered into a single unit. Vigilance and concentration are required; uncertainty and excitement are part of the process. I try to incorporate at least one forge weld in every piece I design.

My creations represent original designs and personal interpretations of traditional forms and techniques. Many of their elements reflect shapes visible in the wooded areas that surround our home. I commission a glass blower to make the shades for my lamps. My husband occasionally assists me when a second pair of hands is needed.

 Last update: No. 28, 2009

ART SHOWS FOR 2009

Kentucky Crafted: The Market
Louisville, KY
Feb. 21-22

Magic City Arts Festival
Birmingham, AL
April 24-26

Old Capitol Art Fair
Springfield, IL
May 16-17

Virginia Highlands
Atlanta, GA
June 6-7

Lakefront Festival of Arts
Milwaukee, WI
June 19-21

Geneva Art Fair
Geneva, IL
July 25-26

Oconomowoc Festival of the Arts
Oconomowoc, WI
Aug. 15-16

Cedarhurst Art Fair
Mt. Vernon, IL
Sept. 12-13

The Riverfront Art Festival
Columbus, OH  Genoa Park
Sept. 18-20

Shaw Art Fair
St. Louis, MO
Oct.3-4

Highland Art Fair
Highland, IL
Oct. 10-11

By Hand
Cleveland, OH  I-X Center
Nov. 13-15

SIU Craft Show
Carbondale, IL
Dec.3-5