As a fibre artist in western Canada, my work has been influenced by the striking vistas, the seemingly endless expanses of land in the prairies and the amazing contrast the ever-changing seasons bring the prairies. My designs may appear simple and sparse, however, like the prairies, they are rich in texture, tradition, and colour, and support the belief that by looking out at the physical world, we’re actually looking within.
I have an ongoing fascination with how light works with texture and the energy associated with that. Although my creative process has evolved over many decades, it has consistently been grounded in the ritual and repetition of traditional women’s handwork, seeking to elevate it to the realm of fine contemporary textile art.
Having lived most of my life on the Canadian prairies, and being blessed with a mother who loved the arts, culture and meditation, I grew up immersed in cultural experiences, dance, art galleries and theatre, as well as Tai Chi and meditation.
Currently, my work is focussed on rug hooking which I had explored decades ago. After learning the basic techniques I experimented with uncommon materials including plastic condoms to hook a welcome mat which is now in the collection of the Saskatchewan Arts Board.
I create rugs that incorporate, texture, colour, and imagery influenced by my environment, including memory, myth, energetics, and my lived experiences, it has been said that I tell big stories using minimal elements.
My recent work has shifted towards concerns for the future of our planet focussing on the refraction of light on silk, and imagery that creates a sense of joy and hope.