My studio is filled with "works in progress", and at times it feels both a blessing and a curse. Upon entering the studio, I have a choice: work on that piece begun 7 years ago, or plow ahead with my latest idea?

The abstract floral is a takeoff of an original painting by artist Domingo Zapata that was later rendered in mosaic by Koko Mosaico for the 2013 Venice Biennale. I've selected a portion of the original to reproduce, and I’m loving the bold outlines and yellow-rose color play. This one was started long ago, and I’m just now diving in again in earnest. It’s been a while since I’ve worked with smalti, so I’m finding my way setting these vibrant tesserae.  

This year I’ve enjoyed catching snippets of time to develop my “Found” line of pendants. These tiny compositions feature glass and natural & found objects, and no two are alike. The compositions are deceivingly difficult to get “just right”.

I’ve also been experimenting with mixed media pieces incorporating found objects: rusty wire, bits of wood, and other “found” detritus. Composition is king, and I love searching through my treasure trove of unusual finds to make just the right selections. My goal is to achieve balance and harmony in the finished work.