Aloha, and welcome to my website.
For over 40 years I have been fascinated by images created on handformed paper. "Paper," my main medium, is both substrate and sculpture. I draw, paint, printmake, and collage exclusively using my own, handmade paper. I make bas-relied and three-dimensional sculpture. Each completed work conforms to museum conservation standards. The images are consciously conceived from inside/out, as though the fibers themselves dictated the outcome. I've explored the history of papermaking and its traditions. That journey informs the work. Much of my inspiration comes from Polynesia and Hawaii. I have lived in Hana for nearly 40 years in the home and art studio that I designed. Present in my work are the images and memories of other places I've visited; Africa, , Asia, Australia, Europe, Indonesia, and North and Central America. The landscapes, myths and stories often find their way into my work.
I use 100% ph neutral cotton and other natural fibers. The paper pulp undergoes many transformations, vacuum-formed and embossed, it becomes bas-relief or freestanding sculpture. Grounds are made from natural pigments (like lapis lazuli, colored clay gessos, lotus root) and are applied to the surface of the works. Having been classically trained, I enjoy the history of art which connects the old and new techniques. Paper offers so many possibilities of experimentation. No matter what form the images result in: watercolor, oil paintings, collage or sculpture; each piece of art is absolutely unique.
Studio visits may be made by appointment.
My work can also be viewed at the Hana Coast Gallery at the Hāna-Maui Resort, as well as the Viewpoint Gallery in Makawao.