Creative Process

Every sculpture begins with a vision inspired by the beauty and movement of nature. I begin by soldering a copper frame, or creating a circle, the foundations upon which each artwork will take shape. Then working with a carefully selected palette of European and locally sourced wool, cotton, linen, and silk, I gradually bring that vision to life through traditional freehand weaving techniques. While each piece begins with an intention, the creative process is wonderfully organic. This allows the interplay of color, texture, and dimension to influence the evolving landscape and tone of the piece.

Once the background is complete, the landscape itself helps to decide the trees that will inhabit it. The movement and contours of the terrain, and the overall feeling of the piece affect everything from the shape of the branches to the depth and direction of the roots. Each tree is meticulously handcrafted, beginning with the smallest twigs and gradually developing into intricate branches, limbs, and trunks. No two trees are ever quite alike, just as no two trees are exactly alike in nature.

There is a sense of calm and happiness I experience throughout the creative process. The familiar scent and feel of wool bring me back to my childhood growing up on a sheep farm, creating a connection between my past and the work I do today. When holding a single strand of wool, I find joy and excitement in knowing what it will eventually become. It is fulfilling weaving beautiful fibers into a landscape filled with movement, texture and depth. Then transforming strands into intricate sculptural trees filling that landscape with life and meaning. 

Creating each sculpture is an intricate and labor-intensive process that requires exceptional patience, precision, and attention to detail. Every strand is thoughtfully placed, building upon the last to create depth, movement, and harmony within the composition. Depending on the size and complexity, a single piece can take anywhere from one week to an entire month to complete. This limits my artworks to approximately 30 to 40 original sculptures each year, ensuring that every piece remains a truly one-of-a-kind work of art.