Artist Statement
Paper, for me, is a boundless material—an embodiment of possibility. As a papermaker, I engage in a direct, intimate conversation with my materials, exploring their inherent qualities and potential. The process begins with the selection of fibers, each one bringing its own texture, weight, and character. From there, I shape the pulp through varied beating times, additives, and pigmentation, all before even touching a sheet with pencil, paint, or x-acto knife. The act of sheet-forming offers further layers of complexity, where I experiment with hundreds of techniques, inviting variation at every turn.
Repetition, labor, and time are integral to my practice. Papermaking is a meditative, arguably monotonous process, and it is in this repetition that I find connection—to the material, to the past, and to the people who have practiced this craft before me. The act of making becomes a way to slow down, immerse myself in the rhythm of the work, and deepen my relationship with the world around me. There is a calming effect in this labor, akin to the peace of a quiet walk through the woods.
Visually, my work draws inspiration from the geometric patterns found in quilts and vintage textiles, as well as patterns that emerge in the natural world. I embrace a playful, intuitive approach, allowing the materials and forms to evolve naturally as I work. The interaction of color and shape unfolds with a sense of freedom, where each decision builds on the last, creating a dynamic and organic dialogue between the elements on the page.
At its core, my current work reflects my own approach to life—curious, empathetic, and infused with a sense of wonder and play. I am particularly drawn to the relational worldview of animism, which suggests that not only humans and animals, but also objects and places, possess a spiritual essence. I think about the vibrant energy of the materials I use—the living, breathing fibers—and how this vitality translates into the final forms. The rhythms of bright color, the imperfect patterns, and the dynamic interaction of shapes feel alive to me, as though the work has its own agency and intention.
Through this practice, I strive to honor the material, the process, and the unseen forces that connect us all. Each piece is an exploration of possibility, a celebration of the quiet power that emerges through slow, deliberate creation.