Narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture, 40 x 21 x 5, reflecting on my life. I consider this a self-portrait over time. Every object is a personal story, a personal memory, but my hope is that the viewer will connect with the objects and reflect on their own narrative.  The sculpture features a transistor radio, Westie sculpture, model train tracks, a heart filled with buttons, fountain, birds, beaded flowers, Popeye paint set, jacks, stenciled crate board (from my Grandmother's farm), measuring tape, Oscar Mayer wiener truck whistle, Cracker Jack box, etc. (2024)

A Jumble Of Small Things Priceless And Worthless - 46 x 32 x 5, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture that I consider my self-portrait over time. The title is an essay by Zora Neale Hurston that resonates with me. She states that we are each a jumble of things. We all put meaning into our treasured momentos. She also thinks that we could all dump our things together, scoop out a new jumble, and still be happy. We can connect with the new things in different ways. This is my hope for my work.......something from my story will cause you to reflect on your own narrative and bring you understanding. Younger viewers can also learn from these objects as they might not know what they are. Maybe an object will remind you of your grandmother and you will give her a call or think of her memory sweetly.

The "stilts" are from a world in "Einstein's Dreams" where people felt they could live their longest, best life the further they were from the center of the earth. I am living my best life.

Staying Young At Heart - 25 x 10 x 5, narrative found object assemblage free-standing sculpture reminding myself and others that growing older does not mean one has to grow old (2024). Even if we can't do some of the youthful activities like skiing and skating, we can still fondly reminisce and maintain a youthful spirit. The base is a vintage roller skate and the top is a vintage Fischer Price toy about telling time. The main compartment is an arrangement featuring a skater and skier, tinker toys, Christmas light, paint set, ice cream spoon, candy, game pieces, noise maker, small bike, jump rope, etc. From other views you can see a sand shovel, car key, cookie cutter, birthday candles, two elderly figures, model train sign "Slow...road ahead," skate key, paper mache flower, ballerina paper doll figure, clicker toy, etc.

Time Flies When You're Having Fun - 24 x 15 x 5, narrative found object assemblage wall relief sculpture, inviting the viewers to reflect on fun times in their own lives and to look forward to more adventures (2023).  The base is a vintage suitcase and is embellished with noisemakers, clown bank, Eight O'Clock coffee bank, Oscar Mayer wiener whistle, bed spring, model train track, toy airplane and car, clip-on bird ornament, 45 disc, etc. The noisemakers aren't attached, so the fun can continue.

Ain't Like I'm A Woman Got No Place To Go - 27 x 12 x 3.5, narrative found object assemblage sculpture addressing the thought that older women are obsolete. The title is a lyric from a Bonnie Raitt song that I feel is filled with attitude. I've still got places to go, people to see, things to do. A vintage female figure is standing on a cigarette case and surrounded by earrings, a compact and a compass, beaded flowers, a lucky penny, and the leaning tower of Pisa. She is crowned with an elaborate comb, and a toy convertible car with the door open. The piece also holds a long red glove, miniature high heel, garter, lipstick, perfume bottle, a dangling purse clasp, etc. (2023)

Sing To Me My Morning Bird - 26 x 12 x 4, narrative found object assemblage wall- relief sculpture reminding viewers to be grateful for each morning (2023).  The birds start each day with a song. The sculpture features many vintage breakfast items such as coffee measuring spoon and strainer, coffee cup and saucer, tea strainer, egg and egg cup, spice grinder, etc.

Enjoying The Passing Of Time - 15 x 8 x 4, narrative found object assemblage free-standing sculpture, with a vintage roller skate as the base (2021). Noise-makers, ice cream container, clown figure, Christmas light, jump rope, skater, viking, dog, and carriage figures, mitten clip, etc. give the viewer an opportunity to reflect on their own enjoyment narrative. From other views you can see a woven pot holder, 45 disc, cover of a children's coloring book, repurposed lithograph, frog, compass, etc.

A Girl I Used To Know - 33 x 14 x 5, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture reflecting on the types of toys and activities for girls when I was young (2023). Reflecting on how the toys and activities have changed in step with changes is our society. The base is a child’s ironing board featuring a small old photo of me at my toy ironing board. A Barbie doll dress is being ironed on the board. The sculpture also features a Slinky, child’s block, doll, egg basket, pop beads, Barbie shoes and jewelry box, thimble and thread, ballerina, candle-holder, etc.

Take This Chance To Celebrate The Day - 22 x 10 x 3, narrative found object assemblage wall relief sculpture featuring vintage cookie cutters, "toaster" salt & pepper shakers, noise-makers, light switch plate, pot holder, tea strainer, pick-up sticks, etc. (2022) Each morning is appreciated and each day is filled with opportunities.

Don'T Give Me No Rocking Chair - 24 x 9 x 4, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture featuring vintage note-holder (the passport can be changed), watch, badges, birthday candles, toy chair, old bay can, noise-makers, etc.(2022) addressing ageism. Seniors still have places to go, people to see, things to do. Insert finger snap.

Sugar And Spice And Everything Nice - 16 x 7 x 5, narrative found object assemblage free-standing sculpture (companion to "Snips And Snails And Puppy Dog Tails")....that's what little girls are made of. Reflecting on the dreams of young girls from days gone by based on the opportunities for women during that era. The base is a child's toy oven and the top is an ashtray that features a female figure with moveable legs and fan. Most girls dreamt of being like their mother, a skater, a ballerina, a bride, pretty and domestic. These ideas are represented with a variety of vintage objects.  From other views you can also see a bottle cap trivet, vintage family photograph, advertisement, buttons, white fence, tape measure, ash tray, etc. (2021)

Snips And Snails And Puppy Dog Tails - 14 x 13.5 x 4, narrative found object assemblage free-standing sculpture (companion to "Sugar And Spice And Everything Nice") exploring the games and activities of boys in comparison to those of girls. (2022) Realizing ways specific gender identities were promoted in toys and products. The base is a child's hammering toy and the piece is topped with a pair of worn out child's shoes. The arrangement of found objects include a child's xylophone, mitten clips, B rattle, Oscar Meyer whistle, rocking horse, cowboy, dinosaur, water pistol, boy scout badges, holster, Lincoln logs, Lucky Strike can, etc.

Unprepared To Be Unseen - 24 x 10 x 2, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture considering the limited dreams and opportunities for older, mature women. They still want to be "seen." The base is a black case topped with a black hair bow and veil and a black beaded purse hanging from the base. The narrative continues with a perfume bottle that has a young female figure as the topper. The case is adorned with jewelry and filled with a cameo, comb, powder puff and compact, watch, ring, lipstick, hair pins and curler, broch featuring a young female figure, and a rouge tin. (2022)

Back In The Day - 26 x 7 x 2.5, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture exploring the roles, activities, opportunities for females back in the day. The hidden agenda is that when we see older women today, many do not consider that they may have had very exciting earlier years. That narrative is told with an elaborate hair comb, perfume bottle, rouge can and puff, lipstick and mirror, manicure set, garter, cameo, curved furniture detail, and a ceramic female figure with feathers. (2023)

Dream New Dreams - 21 x 12 x 2, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture (companion to "Almost Grown-Up Dreams"). What were the dreams and opportunities of this young woman during her time? Exploring the idea that activities and dreams of women have been influenced by the opportunities open to them. This work features a vintage photo album page with photo of a young woman, fan, embroidery hoop, pearls, card of buttons, tatting with tool, stereoscopic photograph, letter opener, hair clip, garter hook, toy fence, etc. (2022)

Almost Grown Up Dreams - 16 x 9 x 2, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture (companion to "Dream New Dreams") considering the dreams, opportunities, and activities of boys from days gone by. I feel that in many cases they weren't as limited as young women.....hence the winning part of the wish bone. The narrative is shared using a vintage photo album page with a photo of a young man, wallet, car, razor, blades box, level, key ring, tobacco ad, card of buttons, cocktail stirrer, map, and fortune cookie fortune, "Your fortune is on its way!" (2022)

I Wish I May, I Wish I Might - 21 x 8 x 3, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture (companion to "Dream Big") thinking of what this young girl's wishes might have been.  The base is a vintage photo album page with a photo of a young girl, with a frame corner as a pediment and shoe figures on top. The narrative is embellished with an arrangement of found objects including a beaded purse, jacks, skate key, house key, pearls, hair pins, Holy Communion momento, cookie cutter, activity book page, barette, etc. (2022)

Dream Big - 21 x 8 x 2.5 narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture (companion to "I Wish I May, I Wish I Might") exploring the activities, dreams, and opportunities of young boys in days gone by. The base is a page from a vintage photo album with a photo of a young boy, topped with a piece of decorative framing and a pair of display shoe figures.   The narrative is elaborated with a miniature golf game, fishing weights, arrow, paper doll police uniform, card of buttons, car keys, View-Master card, boy scout badge and scarf clasp, cap pistol caps, and the winning part of the wish bone. (2022)

Rattle Those Pots And Pans, 9 x 4 x 2, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture using an  embellished mint tin and a strainer as the base. Reflecting on the domestic role and expectations for women.  Working small is a challenge like working with a limited palette. The narrative includes a Morton salt shaker, ball of string, kitchen cabinet knob, drawer handle, cameo, pie crust wheel, coffee pot top, etc. (2020) This was a lyric in a Bill Haley song: Get out in that kitchen and rattle those pots and pans.....an expected woman's role.

I Am The Woman I Can Be - 8.5 x 3 x 1, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture with a mint tin as the base. Exploring the role of women in the 1930's and 40's considering the opportunities offered to them.  The narrative is told with a vintage button on a card illustrated with a young woman and her children and extolling the quality of the product for all of her sewing needs. The arrangement also includes a small cast metal female figure, lipstick, perfume bottle, bobbin, earrings, cameo, clothes line wheel, hair clips, and a Girl Scout badge. (2020)

Narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture, 41 x 16 x 3, reflecting on summers at my Grandmother's farm in Michigan. The days were filled with adventures that were quite different from my days in Chicago. I imagine many of us have wonderful memories of visiting our Grandmother.  I cherish these memories and continued to visit, even driving from Maryland, as long as there was still family there. This sculpture features the piano keys, fisher price barn, woodpecker toothpick holder(similar to the one in the dining room), embroidery hoop, tiny jars of assorted goods, woodpecker, strawberry, brush, architectural detail, my Grandmother's broken plate, corn on the cob holders, cookie cutters, cow, pig, chicken, skunk, etc. For me, each object is a story. (2024)

You Will Outgrow Your Shoes - 22 x 13 x 3.5, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture inspired by a song lyric, you will outgrow your shoes......but you will always be my baby (companion to "You Will Outgrow Your Shoes Too"). I think most parents feel this way. I had the shoes, so as soon as I heard the song, I had my intention. I have a daughter, so this piece became very personal and universal at the same time. I used objects from different ages to tell the story, from a diaper pin to an engagement ring. The fan was given to me by a former student and was her childhood toy. My daughter had one very similar. So many wonderful stories.....many memories that we might share. Barrettes, Barbie shoes, marbles, worry dolls, skate key, car key, jump rope, graduation tassel, jacks, knitting doll, rounded point scissors, lipstick, etc. (2023) 

You Will Outgrow Your Shoes Too - 25 x 11 x 3.5, narrative found object assemblage wall relief sculpture inspired by the song lyric, you will outgrow your shoes......but you will always be my baby (companion to "You Will Outgrow Your Shoes"). I think most parents feel this way. I had completed the sculpture about daughters, so I felt I should address parents and sons. I had the intention, but it took me awhile to find the shoes.  Once I did I knew exactly where I was going....I used objects from different ages to tell the story that no matter what age you are, you will always be my baby. From your saved lost tooth to your Winston lighter, and every stage in between.............yo-yo, dart, razor, mitten clip, bow tie, marshal badge, airplane, sliding bead toy, etc. (2023)  

Narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture, 30.5 x 13 x 4.5, the base is actually a friend's childhood doll bed. The title was inspired by a  "Dream A Little Dream" lyric as sung by Ella Fitzgerald. I imagine that this is the wish of parents and grandparents. The song caused me to reflect on the dreams of young girls. The dreams include a puppy, trip to Disney World, a visit from the tooth fairy, being a bride, an ice skater, a ballerina, going to school, to Paris, to the beach, to the nail salon, etc.  I have suspended jacks from the headboard to represent the stars in the nighty sky. (2024) 

Little Boy Blue And The Man In The Moon - 14 x 15 x 5, narrative found object assemblage free-standing sculpture inspired by the Harry Chapin song, "Cats In The Cradle." (companion to "But We'll Have A Good Time Then")  I am exploring the father/son relationship over time. The base is a roller skate and the top is a shoe stretcher with a foot size measuring ruler in the middle.  There are a few comparisons such as the toy cowboy and the real spur, the child's block with a sailing boat and a real fishing reel. On the back there is a Superboy comic, a Howdy Doody cap, a toy gun holster, with Army rank stripes, an air mail envelope, and a lighter.   Other objects include a compass, oil can, cast metal sledding figure, baby shoes, golf tee, marbles, chess piece, etc. (2019)

But We'll Have A Good Time Then - 22 x 14 x 6, narrative found object assemblage free-standing sculpture inspired by the Harry Chapin song, "Cats In The Cradle." (companion to "Little Boy Blue And The Man In The Moon")  I am exploring the father/son relationship over time. There are a couple of funny connections.....the TV antenna and Bugs Bunny Pez dispenser (rabbit ears), adult pipe and child's peace pipe, Cootie bug and cicadas, ruler pencil box and adult foldable ruler. The base is a child's cobler's bench toy. A Superboy comic is on the back. The men working sign alludes to the message of the song........dads need to make time with their sons. (2019)

Mending Socks And Hearts - 14 x 6.5 x 4, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture reflecting on ways that women have used their sewing skills to take care of their families. I have memories of my grandmother and mother darning socks. I think of love language....using deeds to show love. A cast metal female figure sits on top with a darning bulb and a pin cushion. Most people probably don't even know what darning is any more. Other objects for her sewing include needles, thread, bobbins, thimble, needle threader, buttons, snaps, hooks, and a tape measure. There is a card of thread with a 5 cent price tag, a heart cookie cutter, and pieces of my grandmother's yo-yo quilt. I just recently learned that the strawberry hanging from the tomato pin cushion could be used to sharpen needles. (2023) 

Each Stitch Entwined With Love - 24 x 9 x 7, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture reflecting on ways women have used their handicrafts to show love for their family. The base is part of an old sewing box. It houses a doll in a crocheted hat and dress. I have memories of my mother sewing clothes for my doll. She is surrounded by an arrangement of handicraft objects such as knitting needles, crochet hook, tatting tool and tatting, crocheted doilies and flowers, basket of yarn, embroidery hoop, needles, thread, thimble, bobbin, buttons, knit doll hat, and Singer sewing machine oil. There is also a metal door knocker of  a woman at a spinning wheel. (2023) 

Love And A Pinch Of Salt - Narrative found object assemblage wall relief sculpture reflecting on ways we use our cooking and baking skills to show love to our family. The narrative is told with an arrangement of numerous vintage cooking items, such as a grater, pie bird, ladle, Morton salt, can openers, strainer, pie wheel, pot holder, Sons Of Italy tomatoe can, measuring cups, and a pot holder. A slat from a crate with  a Dill Pickles stencil that was used at my grandmother's farm to ship to Chicago is decorated with a momento depicting the patron saint of cooks. (2023)

My Hands Come From Adele - 28 x 19 x 5, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture about my grandmother. That is her photo as a young woman...the story is that she tore the photo up because she didn't like the boys' haircuts. We found a copy many years later. The base of this piece is the top of a shipping crate with the shipping label and handle used to ship eggs from the farm to Chicago. Her story features many babies and many pigs....different stories. I also included a train garden fence, deer, rooster, farmer figures, spools of thread, canning jar cover, sewing needles, pine cone, rosary, missel, and bed wheel. All objects are representing memories. She made the quilt pieces and the tea strainer was hers. (2007)

Narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture, 34 x 17 x 3, reflecting on my hope for a kinder society. As I am anxious and depressed about the politics and divisions in our country, I can deal with my feelings by making art. Perhaps my work will inspire someone to consider their actions and make positive change. I tried to address many of the issues that we are currently dealing with such as climate change and our environment, mistreating immigrants, broken infrastructure, banning books, Ukraine, female image, taxes, LGBT+, safety, and female choice. I included a rooster to wake up and offer a helping hand and a hummingbird (a symbol for hope and renewal). This sculpture features butterflies, birds, shells, trees, model train track, pearls, books, flowers, three bottles filled with fortunes, buttons, and maple seeds, a feather, and tax tokens hanging from a level, a rooster, glove, etc.

We Should Believe In Each Others' Dreams - 15 x 15 x 3 - narrative found object assemblage wall- relief sculpture featuring objects from many different cultures all working together in an interesting, unified composition......my hope for our country.  A friend gave me the little slippers as a present and immediately I knew I could start on this piece that I had been thinking about for quite a while. The title is a lyric in a hymn, which gave me my intention. This peculiar wooden box had the small compartments.....I believe it was hand-made, but I don't know the purpose. I had a multicultural collection of objects, some given to me by former students, and started to arrange them within the space. I felt it was important to include the figures laying face down next to the Statue Of Liberty as this was during the time of the BLM protests. We all have dreams for ourselves, our families, our communities, and if we support each other, we can make those dreams come true. (2020)

They Need A Sheltered Nest - 12 x 12 x 20, narrative found object assemblage free-standing sculpture with a bell jar atop a lampshade frame that is woven with yarn and a book strap. This is atop legs of branches, a broom, a weaving shuttle. Suspended beneath the jar are baby shoes. Safe within the bell jar, housed in a hand-painted flower pot, we see a young girl jumping rope, a baby, a mailbox, a pencil and a "Greatest Mom" necklace. There is a small silver bird in the process of weaving the nest. As a society we need to create sheltered nests for all of our children. (2020)

Narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture, 22 x 10.5 x 3, inspired by a story I read. Mom fixed dinner and  burnt the toast. The son was questioning his father as to why he would eat the burnt toast instead of complaining. Of course, his reply was, "anyone can eat burnt toast."  It is better to be kind and honor the person's intention. I felt this simple gesture was so profound and my hope is that we can all be kinder to others. This sculpture features vintage coffee pot salt and pepper shakers, toaster salt and pepper shakers, glove stretchers, rooster, tea bag holder, cookie cutter, cup and saucer, coffee tin, pot holder, etc. 2024 

We Fly Just Like Birds Of A Feather - 18 x 17 x 2, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture celebrating the many women who have loved me, supported me, and inspired me.....and continue to do so.  The electrical plugs and the folded tape measure represent the enormous energy of supportive women. My grandmother is represented in the vertical section on the left with a tall feather in the background and female robin's feathers in the tube. My mother is represented in the bottom horizontal section. That's her paddling her canoe to her job. Her domestic skills are recognized with the pin cushion, thimble, sewing guide, etc. She was a beautician represented with the hair curler. The middle section is filled with my fellow art teaching friends....my gang. The top section is our flock of women: young, old, all colors, all types....we can fly with each others' support. (2019)

We Are All Mothers To Each Other - 20 x 7 x 4, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture (companion to "There Is So Much That Needs To Be Tended"). We need to care for each child as if they were our own. We need to care for every person as if they were our family. This caring is represented by a heart cookie cutter and a child figure cookie cutter. A baby in a crib figurine sits atop a collection of mothering items such as a pin cushion, baby spoon, diaper pins, a doll, baby buttons on a card. In the center is a strong-looking cast metal female figure.....she can do this. (2022)    

There Is So Much That Needs To Be Tended - 21 x 7 x 4, narrative found object wall-relief sculpture (companion to "We Are All Mothers To Each Other").  After the Uvalde shootings President Biden commented on the empty chair at family tables, which really saddened me.  An empty chair sits atop a heart that surrounds a map of Uvalde. There is so much in our world that needs our care and attention represented by various objects in this piece. A Peace embroidery, milagros, One World needles, a patch for "Friendship Around The World," Save Ukraine bracelet, sea shell, penguins, arrowhead, and a Statue of Liberty. The little red bird and flowers are meant to keep us strong and positive in our efforts. (2022)

You Are Not Alone - 7 x 17 x 2.5, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture about staying connected with each other. A small vintage notecard with holding hands and flowers is in the center of the piece. A fortune stating "happiness is sitting next to you" and a model railroad sign stating "watch children"  are part of the message. A letter holder is on the top with authentic letters....one from my uncle to his family during the war. We need to be here for each other. A vintage phone directory, phone cord, and mini-princess phone charm may prompt us to give a call to a friend in need. Or sit and have a cup of coffee and share some love. Go for a visit via train, plane, car. Too many people are feeling alone. We need to stay connected and communicate. Everyone needs to feel safe. (2022)

Those who Wish To Sing Always Find A Song - 29 x 12 x 4, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture focusing on people that are always positive and share their love with the world. A small clip-on red bird perches on the top, starting each day with a song. The child’s xylophone was a wonderful find for the narrative and the composition. A heart cookie cutter, harmonica, juice harp, golden rule ruler, red 45 disc, red film canister, noisemaker, Art Lesson book, and Statue Of Liberty elaborate the narrative of spreading love to all. (2021)

Narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture, 26.5 x 15 x 4.5, featuring many objects representing different cultures. My favorite is the venetian gondola salt and pepper shakers......what a souvenir! My hope is that just as I have created a unified composition of differing cultures, our world can be unified. We can celebrate all peoples. I also feel one way to learn about other cultures is through travel. I encourage all to learn more about different cultures and celebrate our differences. 2024 

Have You Ever Wandered Lonely Through The Woods? - 15 x 20 x 4, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture featuring a deer antler, bird's nest, eggs, turtle shell, feather, acorn, and other natural objects. Humans are represented by the shoe form and the furniture detail. A lonely feather hangs from the furniture detail. The title is from a Brandi Carlisle song. (2020)

Adopt The Pace Of Nature - 12 x 7.5 x 1.5, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture (companion to "Her Secret Is Patience") featuring a collection of natural objects. These are arranged in a box enshrined with human-made details....a drawer handle, furniture finials, and a drawer pull. (2021)

Her Secret Is Patience - 11 x 7.5 x 2, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture (companion to "Adopt The Pace Of Nature") featuring a collection of natural objects. These are arranged in a box enshrined with human-made details....a drawer handle, furniture wheels, and a drawer pull. (2021)

Surrounded By A Slow Resurrection - 9 x 21 x 4, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture (companion to "Saying A Slow Good-Bye") during the Springtime. We have gone through a change of seasons with Covid restrictions. On walks I have gathered a bone, turtle shell, egg, hornets' nest, honeycomb, pussy willow, and dried flowers. Humans are represented by the shoe form, bottle, and furniture detail. (2021) 

Saying A Slow Good-Bye - 13 x 23 x 4, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture (companion to "Surrounded By A Slow Resurrection") during the Fall. We have gone through a change of seasons with Covid restrictions. On walks I have gathered an antler,  butterfly, feathers, leaves, milk pod, honeycomb, wheat, and branches. Humans are represented by the wood block, wooden detail, and furniture detail. (2021)

Take A Moment, Take A Rest - 14 x 7 x 2, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture during the Fall. We have gone through a change of seasons with Covid restrictions. On walks I have gathered a bone, eggs, wood pieces, feather, oak galls, pussy willows, leaves, wheat, and shells. (2021) 

Hear The Whispers In The Winter Woods - 9 x 10 x 2, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture. We have gone through a change of seasons with Covid restrictions. On walks I have gathered a skull, branch with bracken, berries, fur, flowers, pine cone, pine needles, and a hornets' nest. Humans are represented by the furniture detail. (2021) 

Are You Open To Your Bliss? - 9 x 9 x 1.5, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture. We have gone through a change of seasons with Covid restrictions. On walks I have gathered a small skull, feathers, bees, lilies of the valley, shells, butterfly, pine cones, and branches. We are the buttons behind bars. Some are too busy to feel the bliss of nature. 

Hear The Song Within The Silence - 20 x 8 x 2, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture (companion to "See The Beauty When There's Nothing There") focusing on opening yourself to truly appreciating nature. Slowing down and enjoying the natural beauty that's right around us. I had just retired and moved to the country.  I started to gather natural objects like feathers, pine cones, acorns, bees, rocks, and maple seeds. But some are still too busy, represented by the people figures behind the branches. I was one of those people for too long. (2017)

See The Beauty When There's Nothing There - 20 x 8 x 2 narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture (companion to "Hear The Song Within The Silence") focusing on opening yourself to truly appreciating nature. Slowing down and enjoying the natural beauty that's right around us. I had just retired and moved to the country.  I started to gather natural objects like feathers, pine cones, acorns, bees, rocks, and maple seeds. But some are still too busy, represented by the people figures behind the nails. I was one of those people for too long. (2017)

Take Me To Heart And I’ll Always Love You - 27 x 11 x 3, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture exploring a love that lasts. The base is a hanky box with the cover featuring a silhouette of a young couple with him kissing her hand. There is a vintage postcard of a young couple stating “marry me and make me happy” behind an elderly couple. Flowers and doves decorate the scene. The home with a white picket fence was the dream of many young couples. Two birds are perched on the top with their long necks creating a heart below the arch of a dustpan. A woman’s hanky hangs from a decorative hook on the bottom…….women were meant to drop their hanky near a man they were interested in so he cold pick it up and return it to her. The title is from an Aretha Franklin song lyric. (2023)

Promises Of Always And Forever- 15 x 10 x 3, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture reflecting on marriage. I found the wedding couple figures at a flea market for $1 which started me wondering what ever happened to Anna and Frank that their momentos were here for sale.  I imagine that their promise did last but someplace down the road the descendants lost interest. Cupid watched over them from his perch on the top reclining in front of the fan. The little spirals of fabric below the figures are trim from my mother’s wedding dress. (2022)

I Want A Sunday Kind Of Love - 28 x 10 x 4, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture exploring the desire to find true love. White vintage Cupid and bride figurines, bed wheels, bed frame, and banister lead us through the composition. A pair of rocker salt and pepper shakers are used to communicate a long term relationship. The wrist corsage is my “mother of the bride” corsage from my daughter’s wedding. I believe I was listening to an Etta James song with this lyric. (2022)

To Love And Be Loved In Return - 18 x 8 x 2.5, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture exploring the idea of true love. The elderly couple figures sit side by side. A Certificate Of Marriage and a pattern for an embroidery of a young couple can be seen behind the arrangement of objects. A cookie cutter heart and a Thomas Mann heart join in a composition with a wishbone, two bottle openers and two clasps. The title is from a Nat King Cole song lyric. (2018)

 Now You're Just Somebody I Used To Know - 20 x 6 x 3, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture reflecting on some of the detours along the journey of finding a true love. The narrative is told with the losing part of the wish bone, return to sender repurposed etching, address number, house key, door knob plate, a heart cookie cutter. There is a row of frogs because you have to kiss alot of frogs before you find the prince. The title is from a song lyric. (2015)

You Will Shelter Me And I Will Shelter You - 13.5 x 13 x 3.5, narrative found object wall-relief sculpture reflecting on combining two households. The wishbone is wishing for a Happy Home (needles). Cupid is watching over the composition. Two separate houses, with an oil can symbolizing the man and sweet oil representing the woman. A printing block of an engagement ring, pin cushion, Boy Scout Science badge, apple, and a wooden bird represent the couple. It's not a straight line, but a curving, winding path. The title is a lyric sung by Ray LaMontagne. (2016)  

Let Me Be The One You Come To - 21 x 7 x 3.5, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture that was censored from an exhibit at the public library because of the vintage postcard of a female in an exotic pose.  Reflecting on longing and attracting a partner with a beaded purse, decorative flowers, lacy fabric, hanging crystal, and glass love birds.  Assorted objects representing male/female are arranged within the space. The title is from a Tina Turner song lyric. (2015)

I'll Cross That Bridge With Lessons Learned - 27 x 8 x 5, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture reflecting on venturing into a relationship after having been burned. I couldn't believe I found a vintage postcard of a fallen bridge. A cast metal bridge sits on top with a shot glass filled with fortunes and a clock face representing part of the story. A case of wishbones and a fishing tackle are another part of the narrative.....but not "there's lots of fish in the sea." An oil can is pointed at a bobbin over a vintage valentine. A nautical compass, a magnifying glass, and a dice might help the new adventure. (2011)  

No Dancing Shoes Have Touched These Dusty Floors - 33 x 12 x 5, narrative found object assemblage wall -relief sculpture considering loneliness. Wishing for a Superman who could bring his razor, necktie, shoe horn, and put his shoes under the bed. The title is a Jack Johnson song lyric. (2012)

Take From Me My Lace - 8 x 10 x 3, narrative found object assemblage free-standing sculpture exploring the qualities and skills women bring to relationships. A vintage photo of a woman, and a printer's block of a man can be seen through the crocheted glove that holds the base in its' grasp.  The narrative continues with thimbles, spools of thread, hooks, embroidery hoop, perfume, hat pins, and a coffee cup. The rear view features a vintage photo of a dowdy, but well-dressed woman, a doillie, and a card of antique buttons. The piece is on a pedestal of drawer pulls. The title is from a Stevie Nicks lyric. (2017)

I Need Four Walls Around Me, 433 - 40 x 11 x 6, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture reflecting on my home in Towson. This was the best place....as you can see by the stilts (I'm living my longest, best life). The neighbors called it the fun house since it was so colorful. I had painted the dining room chairs with crazy patterns topped with a branch and a Sawdy Jester carved bird (visionary artist). I did the kitchen backsplash in broken plates from family and friends. Those memories are represented here. The narrative is elaborated with a fan, cookie cutter, noise makers, croquet post, furniture detail, branches, Mickey Mouse Pez dispenser, bird on spring, cast metal girl figure, dog figure, etc. (2019)

I Need Four Walls Around Me, 501 - 17 x 11 x 5, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture about my childhood home. Various stories from this time in my life are represented by child shoes, toy caboose, cookie cutter, maple seed pods, Christmas light, bike bell, Oscar Mayer whistle, skater, nut cracker, bobbins, buttons, cast metal skater, yo-yo, etc. (2018)

I Need Four Walls Around Me To Hold My Life - 27 x 11 x 6, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture about the places I have called home throughout my life.  The stories are told with a wooden Cardinal, scale, furniture details, crocheted glove, wood plane, vice, cast metal girl figure, flash cube, baby figure, Milagro, Monopoly houses, croquet posts, birdhouse, etc. I realized I learned so much from this piece that I needed to start a series. (2019)

I Need Four Walls Around Me, 6 1/2 Mile Road - 28 x 13 x 7, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture about my times at my grandmother's farm.  We were city kids and would sort of go wild when we went to the farm. Plus,I came from a huge family, so there were lots of cousins to have new adventures with.  I loved this place. I still have the bed frame for the bed I always slept in growing up, and later with my daughter. You can see it represented here. Other memories are shared with the deer antlers, pine cone, cows, Roller Rink decal, feather, fishing tackle, clothes pins, frogs, drapery hardware, comb, horse, branch, etc. We spent many summers up at the farm. On the right side is a strip from a crate with the family name stenciled on it that was used to ship produce to Chicago before I was born. (2018)

I Need Four Walls Around Me, #11 - 22 x 16 x 4, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture reflecting on my time living in my first house in Catonsville. It had a lot of ups and downs, highs and lows.  I communicated my narrative using a Cardinal light bulb, bird in cage, pick-up sticks, saw handle, Al-anon pages, shot glass, ladder, cookie cutter, mother-daughter figures, cast metal female figure, canoe, paint brush, wish bones, etc. I eventually had to pick up my sticks, sell the house (upside down St, Joseph statue), move, and move on with my life. (2019) 

I Need Four Walls Around Me, 18411 - 20 x 11 x 4, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture reflecting on my current home out in the country. This was a big move for me from my "fun" house where I was living my "best life" (433). But, we all need to keep moving forward and I am creating a new "best life." With each move I have learned more about myself and the world around me.  I have communicated the narrative with a hummingbird, razor, perfume bottle, oil can, level, winding staircase (up to my studio), swan salt & pepper shakers, cast metal figures, a bone, deer, cat, icicle, boy and girl figurine, etc. (2019)

They Know Their Way Back Home If They Follow Right - 20 x 9 x 3 - narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture. We should all be able to make our way home, and be welcomed and loved when we get there. Just as the birds make their way to their nest. The narrative includes a watch, keyring, map, whistle, clothes line pulley, house, stacked rocks, relief block of a bird, bird figurine, bird nest, branch, and rosary beads. (2014) 

There's More Than One Way Home - 25 x 9 x 7, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture about staying connected to home. Sometimes we just can't physically be there, but we can visit in many way. Music, smells, activities, dreams, and, of course, objects can take us back home. The narrative is told with a photo, postcard, door knob, bed wheel, spool of thread, lilacs, hair curling rod, model railroad tracks, rock, etc. At the bottom is a shell on a branch which has grown around it. Always connected. (2010)

Embrace Yourself As You Are - 9 x 5 x 5, narrative found object assemblage free-standing sculpture with a vintage compact as the base holding a cowgirl figure and a mature female figure surrounded by pearls, lipstick, perfume bottle, bobbin, hair comb, hair pic, cameo, pink ribbon, etc. This arrangement is balanced on a pedestal of a flipped glass goblet filled with pearls on an ashtray. The rim is trimmed with a doilie and pink ballerina figures. The back view is covered in a doilie and features a classical female figure with a halo of cloth pink roses. Seeing a Nick Cave exhibit inspired me to figure out how to add the pink ballerinas. Take a risk. All females are beautiful.(2022)

All Dressed Up And No Place To Go -16 x 9 x 2, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture with a vintage photo album cover as the base, crowned with a feathered bow hat, and finished with a beaded purse. To me there was a bit of longing in the figure's stance and expression. She has all of the necessities to prepare for a lovely night out.... a vintage compact, corsage, comb, pearls, lipstick, garter clip.....but no memories to make. (2021)

Be Your Own Kind Of beautiful - 8 x 4 x 4, narrative found object assemblage free-standing sculpture with a unique vintage compact for the base of the narrative. The compact holds a young female figure surrounded by objects of beautification such as a cameo brooch and cameo earrings, lipstick, perfume, hair clips, hat pin, ring. She and the viewer are being reminded to be their own kind of beautiful. The compact has a cover for the powder and the case which form a backdrop for the narrative. The covers hold brooches with different beautiful female faces trimmed with doilies. There is a gold pencil that I believe is from a date book or address book which adds to the narrative. The compact is perched on a pedestal of an amber doorknob on an amber goblet. (2022)  

More Beautiful Than You Imagine - 7 x 5 x 5, narrative found object assemblage freestanding sculpture with a vintage compact on a pedestal of a goblet filled with pearls and trimmed in a crocheted doillie. A young girl figure is in the center surrounded by objects for girls and for women such as a Cinderella watch (I had one growing up) pearl earrings, hair pins and a Barbie comb. There is a contrast of different clips: hair clips, mitten clips, and garter clips. The mirror of the compact has a ring of garter clips. The back is covered with a red crocheted rose. The girl is very innocent looking and we can hope she will always know how beautiful she is. (2021) 

Each Has Her Own Particular Grace - 16 x 6 x 2, narrative found object wall-relief sculpture has a small vintage frame with photograph of a young woman and a high heel pin cushion on the top of an octagon shaped box. The box holds a female figurine with a swan, a tiny seated female figure, and cameo earrings. All different females, and all beautiful. A veiled hair bow with many antique tiny buttons hang in front of a crocheted basket pin cushion. Hair clips, rick rack, cloth tape measure, and pearls are added embellishments. The small size and tiny objects add to the delicate, graceful feel of this particular piece. Each woman has her own qualities that complete her particular grace. (2022)

A Woman's Beauty Never Fades - 10.5 x 6 x 6, narrative found object assemblage free-standing sculpture with a large vintage compact as the base for the narrative. The compact is trimmed in doillies and holds a lovely female figure perfume bottle with a delicate bow and flowers. She is surrounded by other beauty items such as lipstick, rouge tin, screw-on earrings, cameo brooch, garter clip, pearls, and cloth flowers,  The back features an elaborate hair comb that crowns a scantily glad female figure bottle opener. What a find she was.....says a lot about female imagery! She is enshrined in a ring of hairclips. 

The Beauty Of A Woman With Passing Years Only Grows - 20 x 10 x 2, narrative found object wall-relief sculpture with a vintage photo album cover as the base crowned with a veiled hat, and with hanging curtain tassles. There is a tiny female figure sitting inside the rouge tin surrounded by screw-on earrings a chrocheted flower, and a watch. The composition includes a calendar from 1912 with pressed flowers, buttons on a card, pink pieces from my grandmother's yo-yo quilt and pink powder puffs, a perfume bottle, brooch, and cameo. There is a beauty in these objects as there is beauty in all women.

Just As I Am - 10 x 5 x 5, narrative found object assemblage free-standing sculpture with a vintage compact balanced on a beaded pedestal of glass vessels. The female figure is a perfume bottle of a young girl.....may she learn she is beautiful just as she is. She stands with a crocheted flower, which are also featured on the back of the compact.  The assemblage includes lipstick, a thimble, a tiny cameo necklace with the gold chain winding through the composition, pearl earrings, hair curler, lock and key, and doll comb. (2021) 

Your Children See Their History In Your Face - 26 x 6.5 x 3, narrative found object assemblage wall-relief sculpture reminding all women that they are beautiful as they are. When considering plastic surgery, know that your changed appearance will impact your children. You have a shared history that includes your changing appearance. The base is a jewelry box housing an arrangement of cosmetics and child toys.... a Jacob's ladder, vintage watch, skater figure, beauty products, cookie cutter, Russian nesting doll, brownie barrette, doll shoes, etc. (2020) 

You're Beautiful As You Feel - 4.5 x 3.5 x 3, narrative found object assemblage free-standing sculpture with a vintage compact as the base on a door knob pedestal. The compact holds a female cast metal figure, a ballerina, and a mannequin surrounded by perfume, lipstick, hair clips, hat pins, pearls and earrings. The back is covered with a crocheted flower. The title is a lyric from a Carole King song......we should all channel our inner ballerina and feel beautiful. (2021)  

Scattered In The Wind - 11 x 14 x 2 - narrative found object assemblage/collage centered around a school class photo from grade 2, 1956 (I'm in there).  The photo is framed by a vintage switch plate frame used to protect wallpaper. I have repurposed an old lithograph and an etching about loosing contact with someone. These second graders are all now scattered in the wind like the maple seed pods. The narrative is elaborated with a travel pilgrimage booklet, buttons, paper doll dress, doll dress, address book page, and an advance to go Monopoly card. (2020)

I Always Thought That I’d See You Again - 11 x 14 x 2 - narrative found object collage/assemblage inspired by a James Taylor song lyric. Thinking about my brothers who have passed away. You never realize in the moment that it could be the last time you see someone. Our story is shared with a vintage photograph, a switch plate frame (to protect the wallpaper),  monopoly money and game pieces, model railroad tracks, skate key, toy cars, Superman comic, composition book cover, clothing hooks, holy card, toy cars, maple seed pods, repurposed lithograph, etc. (2020)

Just Call Out My Name - 11 x 14 x 2, narrative found object collage/assemblage inspired by the James Taylor song, You’ve Got A Friend. Thinking about kindness and being there for each other. The narrative is shared using a vintage address book, Art Nouveau switch plate frame (to protect wallpaper), old photograph, repurposed etching, glove, locket, map, Easter card, hook and eye loops, cast metal figure, and photo corners. (2020)

Our Roots Will Always Be Entwined - 10 x 10 x 2 - narrative found object collage/assemblage thinking of my sister who lives in Montana. We don’t get to see each other very often and I miss her. I imagine this is the case for many siblings. I am sharing our narrative with the first photo of us together (Polaroid), address book page, map, Forget Me Not seed packet, embroidery hoop, model train tracks, deer, bobbin, guitar tuning knobs, heart cookie cutter. I have used clothing hooks and eyes, and tangled vines to share the story that we will always to connected.

The Shining Days When Life Was New - 5 x 7- narrative found object collage featuring a photo of my mother from 1940. She is a young woman standing alone wearing a dress in a gentle breeze. This is the year she graduated from high school and I imagined what she might have been thinking/feeling. The photograph is elaborated with a garter clip, threader, bra strap, yo-yo quilt piece, buttons on card, crocheted trim, earring, pink paint samples, “It’s a nice day😊 fortune. I believe it is my grandfather in the piece of photo at the bottom.  (2022)

So Hard To Say Good-Bye - 7 x 5, narrative found object collage featuring a photograph of my grandparent and two aunts leaning out the front porch windows. I imagine this could be what my mother saw when she was leaving home after graduating high school.  I have elaborated the narrative with hair pins (she became a beautician), and a wedding print (she got married). I imagine how difficult it was to leave home and head to Chicago on the train. I've given her a St. Christopher medal (patron saint of travelers). Each of the collages in this suite of 12 have a piece of yo-yo quilt made by my grandmother as a unifying element. (2022)

We Are Our Mothers' Daughters - 7 x 5, narrative found object collage featuring a photograph of my mother and grandmother from 1940. It was very interesting to see these younger versions of the women I knew. I elaborated the narrative of this photograph with a mirror as I can see their reflections.  I've also arranged a feather, yo-yo quilt piece, embroidery, pressed flowers, buckle, buttons with card, rosary, prayer card, and cup cake cups packaging. (2022)

Go And Live Your Dream - 7 x 5, narrative found object collage featuring a photograph of my mother standing by a car in a suit with a hat and purse. I know much of her story after leaving the farm for Chicago. I shared the narrative with a map, address book page, hair pin and box, yo-yo quilt piece, car key, needle and thread, butterfly, recipe card, and knotted string. The cloth spirals are from her wedding dress. (2022)

Dear Brothers, Please Return Home - 7 x 5, narrative found object collage featuring a photograph of two young boys hugging below windows with two flags. The flags were used to honor family members who were away in the service (my two uncles). The young boys are also two of my uncles. When I knew these men, they were all grown men. I hadn't appreciated their different life experiences until I saw this photograph. I elaborated the narrative using a zipper, army patch, yo-yo quilt piece, air mail envelope, military button, dried flowers, letter home, red, white, and blue ribbon. (2022)

Home, Mother, And Ice Cream - 7 x 5, narrative found object collage featuring a photograph of my uncle and grandmother enjoying ice cream. He is in his uniform and the photo is dated 1944. I believe he was home on leave. I elaborated the narrative with a Veteran's Day poppy, service medals, an addressed envelope, a letter written to "Dearest Mother" (1944 from Sicily), yo-yo quilt piece, heart, red, white, and blue ribbon. I imagine many soldiers dream of home, mother, and ice cream. (2023)