Inspired by my grandmother who made colorful quilts using fabric from flour sacks and worn-out clothing, I enjoy giving vintage fabrics a new life. I work primarily with cotton and silk, transforming aprons, dresses and other items into unique textile baskets that are both functional and beautiful. The use of upcycled textiles brings an eco-friendly and sustainable aspect to the baskets, highlighting the beauty and uniqueness of repurposed materials. Most of the time the fabric allows me to create the shape I have in mind, but occasionally it surprises me. Color, texture and shape are the primary elements in each basket. A bit of whimsy is added with embellishments of beads, shells, stones, branches or feathers. My baskets may not keep anyone as warm as my grandmother’s quilts did, but they are just as useful and hopefully just as cherished for many years to come.
I was honored to be one of two artists selected for the 2024 Reimagining exhibit in Georgetown, Texas. My baskets have been featured at Art in Fiber-Vessels in Fiber in Round Top, Texas, Celebrating American Art & Craft in Comfort, Texas and FiberWorks in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Marigolds received the Merit award in 2015 at the Paseo Art Space in Oklahoma. Renewal, a mixed media basket, was awarded Best in Show in 2013 at the Restorations exhibit in North Carolina.
When I’m not in the studio, you will find me working in the garden, playing with my two loveable rescue dogs, or reading my way through the mystery section of the local library.