Profile

Brief History & Artist’s Statement

Brief History

People often ask where I received my training and how I became a jewelry designer and goldsmith.  As a result of a career ending head injury in 1997 my life took several dramatic twists and turns.  One of those was a “chance encounter” with local silversmith, Robert Wunce.  After spending a day as a guest in his studio watching him, it became clear that I wanted something similar for my life’s work.

Upon his recommendation, I enrolled in the Revere Academy of Jewelry Arts in San Francisco taking several classes before being invited to study with Alan Revere in his first Jewelry Technician Intensive.  Thanks to his kindness, guidance, and excellent instruction every  step of the way I learned the skills necessary to make my designs become reality.

After completion of the Jewelry Association Certification, I apprenticed at the Jeweler’s Bench in Los Gatos and continued to refine my skills.  Today, I am fortunate to have my own studio and make one of a kind designer jewelry that I sell to clients throughout the US.  I am also very blessed to have the support of my family and friends who have encouraged me to follow my dreams, and have helped make this midlife career change so exciting and rewarding.

Artist’s Statement

My life has taken many unexpected twists and turns over the years.  During this journey of amazing adventures, art has been my anchor and has given me a sense of identity.  I have drawn, painted, and constructed things and have always thought of myself as an artist, so the conscious decision to pursue that as a life path never happened.  From a very early age I learned that if I wanted my ideas created as I saw them I would need to learn the vocabulary to speak for myself using sound techniques and having a clear vision.  My work is about process, beauty, and form while seeking to unlock the mysteries of each medium’s unique properties.  My work represents my love of nature and a profound respect for artists and craftsmen who came before me.

Currently, my work is focusing on the ancient goldsmithing techniques of chain making, hand fabrication, and granulation.  Occasionally, I do lost wax casting and like to watch each piece emerge from a chunk wax as it’s being carved.  Because I work with such beautiful stones and high karat gold, I try not to over design or make my pieces too complex, preferring rather to showcase the natural beauty of the materials without too much interference from me.

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