Artifacts tell the stories of long lost civilizations and individuals. Without a single word, these items give us the information we need to imagine what vanished cultures accomplished, what they valued, what they discarded, and, especially, what they found beautiful.

I believe that the objects adorning our bodies and our homes serve as personal artifacts, silently communicating ideas about who we are that words can neither express nor deny. Since these items speak *for* us, I think it is also important that they speak *to* us… that their energy, aesthetic, and origins both reflect and enhance our personal stories. As a result, I find the idea of wearing and displaying pieces that have been made in limited quantities by the hands of a knowable and accessible person particularly appealing.

Jewelry: My designs are based on a natural inclination to coax the individual beauty and personality out of each stone. Rather than trying to follow (or buck) fashion trends, I rely on my intuition and a carefully curated selection of materials to create accessories that will speak to (and for) a particular person. My goal is for each piece to be both boldly expressive and easy to wear. Because I hope that my creations will be worn often, I design most of them to be comfortable and durable enough for daily use.

Paintings: I have always preferred to paint natural landscapes and “portraits” of wild flora and fauna. For reference material, I use both personal photographs (which I obsessively capture) and my imagination. Lately, I particularly enjoy creating “miniature” paintings (5x7 inches or smaller) because they make original artwork accessible to almost anyone, regardless of budget or space constraints. They are perfect for personalizing a cubical or other small workspace and will certainly help coworkers understand a bit more of your story.

More than a business, Artifacts et Cetera is an outlet for my creative energy… one that provides access to individuals from around the world who see something of themselves in my offerings. It allows me to connect with nature, with my inner self, and with other people who feel drawn to the things I have made.