Since I was very young, I have admired the natural world. The trees have often offered comfort, the mountains brought strength, and the sea tranquility. As I grew older, I developed an appreciation and empathy for animals, which profoundly influenced my artwork. I needle felt many types of animals and figures, but sheep and hummingbirds are two animals that appear in my sculptures most often.

Sheep provide me with the raw material for my work, but also with much more. I feel a sense of peace when sitting among my own small flock of sheep. They are amazingly graceful and possess an aura of tranquility, their eyes are big, gentle, and kind. Raw wool fiber is very appealing to me. I love playing with the unusual textures and colors of many different kinds of wool and it is always an adventure to discover how the fibers will manifest themselves in a project.

I see a hummingbird as a combination of bird, bee, and butterfly. In the Pacific Northwest, hummingbirds are somewhat elusive and it is always a moment of magic when I see one. I am inspired by their iridescence and unique colors. They glisten and sparkle in hues of orange, ruby, green, and violet.

I create these wool sculptures using a combination of Romney and Southdown wool from my own sheep as well as other types of wool and fiber. The sculpting of the fibers is done using a sharp, barbed, felting needle. Some of my sculptures are built around a wire frame, some are jointed for movement, and many are built entirely around a solid wool core. Each piece is a one of a kind creation, created uniquely and individually, and inspired by the natural elements around me.

My WoolPets are available for purchase online, at selected art fairs and galleries in the Pacific Northwest, and from my studio in Suquamish, WA.