My process

The art process begins not with a needle, but with a paintbrush. I typically start with a watercolor or gouache painting. This painting acts as a foundation upon which I build layers of depth with machine and hand embroidery. I embellish the threads and pigments with beads, zippers, and sequins. But it doesn’t end there. I also work with traditional materials like nails, staples, and wire. I have sewn on wood, using my Dremel drill to deconstruct the surface and my thread to reunite the piece. Wherever I can, I incorporate the mysterious lives and histories of reclaimed materials into my work: rusted metal is a particular favorite. Because I reuse materials from one piece in another, each piece enters into a conversation about deconstruction and innovation.