Sculpture From Found, Repurposed and Created Objects.

My fascination with animals began in early childhood. My father was a small-animal veterinarian, and through him I was introduced to a wide range of creatures—everything from exotic mammals and birds to reptiles and amphibians. In those early years, one of his clients was a pet store that brought in animals for treatment, giving me rare, close-up encounters with species I might not otherwise have known. He also volunteered at the Youth Science Center, which housed an “animal library,” where children could borrow small animals—rats, guinea pigs, reptiles, and amphibians—to care for at home, much like checking out a book. These experiences left a lasting impression on me and helped shape the way I see and connect with animals.

Today, I create animal sculptures using a variety of materials, including wood, metal, foam, and epoxy clay. Each form is carefully built and then covered with fabric and other textures, blending softness with structure. I pair these figures with repurposed objects, allowing them to interact with their surroundings or with small, detailed elements I create. My background in jewelry informs this process, enabling me to add intricate details that bring each scene to life. Together, these elements create small, narrative worlds—moments of quiet imagination where each piece suggests its own story.

I am especially grateful to Geoffrey Gorman, whose class introduced me to working with taxidermy foam and canvas. His guidance opened up new possibilities in my process, and elements of those techniques continue to influence the work you see here.