Before dedicating my time to improving my ceramic artist skills I worked as a Science Specialist teaching children from Kindergarten to eighth grade. You can see that science influences my work, whether it's the surface decoration design created using laser cutter technology to create custom rolling pins or the influence of hanging out with children that informs the creation of my whimsical bird and bat pieces. Most of my work is functional in nature and my heart swells any time someone talks about using my pieces in their day to day lives. I learned to wheel throw in the Cleveland Institute of Arts Continuing Education program in the mid 90's and have worked with many ceramic artists since then. Most recently local artists Sara Truman and Jack Manfredi have given practical feedback that has allowed me to grow as a ceramic artist. I continue to enjoy creating new forms and tools and look forward to an opportunity to share my work and process during the GFAA Studio Tour.