As a child, my mom showed me that the possibilities for creation were limitless. Art is a living, breathing entity that takes a multitude of different forms. Being raised with the notion that all artistic creations hold inherent value, simply because they are an extension of ourselves, empowered me to boldly venture forth into the depths of the craft closet and make, make, make. Returning to these roots and embracing this same openness to media has profoundly impacted the approaches used in my work today. This is evident through the use of collage, digital, and traditional mixed-media approaches.

This series, Gichi-ogimaakwewi, delves into the geographical/cultural history of Michigan, along with the broader field of ancient folklore & mythology to create a trio of fictional goddesses. Historical documents, maps, photos, and a wide array of other ephemera have been carefully collected over the past semester and combined & manipulated through a myriad of digital methods. All three pieces combine the more structured approaches of portraiture, with the more organic and experimental nature of collage. As with traditional collage approaches, this process transforms each element from its original form into something entirely different.

These women are intended to emanate a powerful and divine feminine energy; they are mothers, protectors, creators, nurturers, healers & leaders. Their realm is this land; carved by ancient glaciers and surrounded by vast freshwater oceans. A funny little place akin to lovely woven winter garments & where you can use your hands to point out where home is.