I began my career in printmaking as an undergraduate in 1982 at UW-Madison, and furthered my training in Paris, France at Atelier 17. I earned a Master of Fine Arts degree in 1998 from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. In 2003 I relocated from Minneapolis, MN to California where I continue my work as an educator, artist, activist, and the founder of Open Ground Studios—a visual arts community studio in Seaside that provides access, opportunities, and connection for emerging and professional artists and creative adults.
Over the course of my career, I have worked extensively in arts education and community building in the arts, both in Minnesota and California. My leadership through OGS has landed several awards including, “Innovator of the Year” with the Startup Challenge, Community Palette Showcase Event winner, and in 2019, Open Ground Studios was named Champion of the Arts through the Arts Council for Monterey County.
In 2023, I released printmaking in the fullest sense to dedicate my attention to making meaningful art through writing, painting, installation, and mixed media. I am committed to living in the present moment with gratitude, creative endeavor, and joy while learning what it means to be an ovarian cancer survivor.