As a Metal Artist, I'm inspired by traditional blacksmithing techniques. I've been creating elegant functional sculptures for the last seventeen years. I draw on simple organic forms to fabricate my work. A linear fluid touch allows me to create a diversity of sculpture from fences, gates and benches to light fixtures and arbors. The true power in my artistic ability is to harmonize the disparate element of steel and gracefully turn it into organic sophisticated sculpture.
My studio is located in N.E. Minneapolis, where I've been creating metal work for individual homeowners, Architects and Designers. I've been self-employed since 1991 and served as a visiting Artist and Educator in metal work.
I was honored being selected as the artist to create a Public Art Fence for the City of Minneapolis in 2006. The fence was part of the Loring Bikeway Project, and stretched over 400ft along Interstate 94E and Hennepin Ave. in the Wedge Community. I also worked with MSR Architecture, forging and fabricating a gate and fence for the Little Earth Neighborhood Early Learning Center in the Phillips Community in South Minneapolis. My work with Forecast Public Artworks includes a large sculptural bench on the corner of Raymond and University in St. Paul. The bench extends it's branch like qualities 11ft up the side of a building. Other major commissions include window grilles in the Rotunda of the Minneapolis City Hall, and patio grillework for Crema Cafe; in South Minneapolis.
I started my college education at St. Cloud State University. It was there that I found my passion for creating sculpture from glass blowing. I then transferred to the University of Minnesota where I received my degree in commercial and studio art focusing on glass and metal work. I had the chance to explore an intense workshop at Pilchuck Glass School in Washington, working with Dale Chihuly. I've been involved with the Guild of Metalsmiths and the American Blacksmithing Association throughout my career to further my involvement with artisans and blacksmiths.
My work has been exhibited in Museums and Galleries across the country including the Asheville Art Museum, Ohio Craft Museum, College of St. Catherine and the Minnesota Museum of American Art. I taught workshops at St. Cloud State University, Oxbow School of the Art Institute of Chicago and in my metal studio.