Born and raised in Vancouver, B.C. Canada, I grew up spending summers on the Queen Charlotte Islands, now known as Haida Gwaii, listening to the legends and stories that have become fond memories. The tradition of oral history has influenced and inspired allot of my quilt making. A large part of my recent work involves researching traditional legends and interpreting them in new ways. This blend of traditional roots and contemporary experience inspires me to marry together influences from elsewhere with inspiration from the local
area. My work is developed through painting, drawing and collage in sketchbooks. I feel this careful planning and exploration of ideas allows a more liberated and intuitive approach when it comes to fabric. The bold designs of the Pacific Northwest lend them selves perfectly to appliqué, but I also enjoy working with discharge dyeing, drawing, painting and printing. Each piece is then densely quilted either by hand or machine and often both. Traditional embellishments of buttons are a common feature, as are more innovative ideas with painted fusible web and drawing with permanent pens. My work has been exhibited in North America and Europe both individually and as a member of SiX. Teaching forms a big part of my daily life, with workshops and an ongoing commitment as a tutor of City and Guilds courses,
Patchwork and Quilting and Creative Sketchbooks through the online centre DesignMatters. I am also 1/3rd of thr3fold.
