I grew up just outside of Ann Arbor, MI where the city's artistic and multi-cultural atmosphere was a shaping influence in my individualistic character. I earned my BFA in textiles and painting from Eastern Michigan University and continued to the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York to establish an industry-focused portfolio.

From New York City, I moved to Los Angeles to begin my career in the apparel industry as a designer of woven textiles. Advancing to design director, I spent about 10 years traveling to Europe for trend research and to India and Asia for sourcing and production. After many years of producing textiles overseas, I sought a more direct relationship with materials and experimentation not limited by mass production processes. These experiences forged the desire to develop a business creating innovative textiles in a small studio environment.

The biggest influence as a California designer is the belief in possibilities, generating momentum in exploring what's next. California painter Richard Diebenkorn has been a great influence since I first began painting. His use of thick and thin application of paint draws one in for further consideration as he interprets California landscapes. Textiles are my medium to create the effect of thick/thin layering by working with various textures and combining disparate yarns. My first collection developed by spontaneously creating on loom much as the spontaneity of abstract painting.

California has an optimistic and experimental energy that has always nurtured design with forward momentum. My work reflects this spirit of free flowing openness that does not follow a trend but celebrates individuality and artistic expression. California coastal beauty is translated into biomorphic abstracts with textural exploration of endless possibility. Textiles are my medium abstract design is my intent.