Artist Statement
I discovered metalsmithing in 2006 through a class at the Indianapolis Art Center. I now teach as well. I work in Argentium Sterling Silver (Sterling is 925-Argentium is 930has more silver an alloy to retard tarnishing none that cause allergic reaction) I add handmade chain-woven in traditional patterns or built by torch of my own design. Elements added through acid etching forging accents w/other metals or stones. Im also fulfilling a goalto give back to Dr. George Sledge who in 1986 gave me my last 27 years as a two time breast cancer survivor. The Simon Cancer Center at Indiana University 100 Voices of Hope funds research hunches for solutions to cure breast cancer & ultimately picked up with research grant dollars. 25% of the sale of each heart I make goes directly to fund research. Since 2011 I have donated over $5 000one heart at a timeto help their researchers find answers & give people hearts to keep or to share with others on their own personal journey.
Festivals
Buffalo Grove Art Festival, Gold Coast Art Fair at Grant Park, North Shore Festival of Art at Old Orchard
Booth Numbers
Gold Coast Art Fair at Grant Park: 374
Buffalo Grove Art Festival: 127
North Shore Festival of Art at Old Orchard: 73