As an artist, I find myself working more and more with recycled, reclaimed and organic materials. This present time in our world it is important to find uses for what is readily around us. Artists are in a fantastic position to forge ahead with creative ideas for using what is available in our surrounding environment. Using collected materials, unwanted items and what many consider to be “waste” is an earth-friendly, green approach to art making.  The supplies are endless, we are surrounded by appropriate materials which can be ‘born again’ in a new life within a piece of fine art. This is what truly excites me as a mosaic artist to share my enthusiasm for incorporating reclaimed/everyday materials which are then passed on to those that view the art. 

         Recently I have been creating art entirely from materials provided by mother- nature and the feathered friends on our farm.  Included are egg shell art, feather art and a series called In My Organic Cupboard.  The later was a personal challenge where I had to open up one of my kitchen cupboards and use only the materials found within that space. Organic beans, seeds and pasta were incorporated to create scenes of animals and nature found in this beautiful place we call home. 

         My mosaics and bricolages allows me to  ‘think outside of the box’ with new eyes, listen to my ‘recycle conscience’ and have a blast creating unique art from organic materials and repurposed cast-off objects, which then become part of a new art story…  

         As a mother and an artist, I feel privileged to share with my daughter the experience and joy of creating, running a business with integrity and having fun with our studio and gallery.

         In 2009, I joined the Stinking Fish Studio Tour and my daughter (age 11 at that time), enthusiastically agreed to work with me as Chief Operator of refreshments and Tour Guide of the farm and gardens.  This is a role she takes very seriously and has created her own entrepreneurial business in which she relies to add profits to her savings account. With the help from her dad and older brother, she creates a lemonade /refreshment stand with straw bales and our hay wagon.  Homemade lavender lemonade and a variety of organic cookies and treats are offered to our thirsty customers.

         A year ago, an added generation joined our studio tour team. My Mom moved in next door and has assisted in tidying the gardens and her grand daughter with refreshments. Three generations working together to create a memorable experience for our studio tour customers!

         Giving your children some of your time on a consistent basis is a must for the health of your kids, your family and yourself -- especially because they won't be kids forever.  Sharing with my daughter the creative process of an artist, operating a business and learning the ins and outs of money management are skills which she will take with her into adulthood and pass on to her children.