I am a maker of rustic bohemian collectible jewelry. I love making eclectic, beautiful, and memorable art to wear full of lush color, texture, and pattern.

I began as an illustrator (MFA from Florida State University) working in dimensional cut paper collage using traditional paint, brush and paper - and exacto knife. I create my picture book illustrations digitally these days but I still love to hand paint papers to scan into my collages.

I have flat files full of painted papers and proof sheets from various book projects. On a whim I began using some of the papers to make beads to use in wall hangings; I made earrings instead, and then bracelets and necklaces. It took some research and experimentation to figure out the best way to protect the beads from the elements but once that was accomplished I started looking for other beads to combine with the paper. I discovered sources for beautiful Czech glass and gemstone beads and began collecting. Then I started making my own beads with polymer clay and learning to work with metal so that I could make my own clasps and findings. I am so excited to see what can be discovered with experimentation and work to make my pieces as personal, original, and thoughtfully put together as I can.

As much as I love making art for books I missed working with my hands. I have finally found the thing that I love doing as much as illustration. Maybe more.

I have two shops on Etsy. This one, RocksandPaperSwans, is all about eclectic, one-of-a-kind and collectible pieces, and PaperSwansandThings, which is brand new and celebrates paper and mixed media. I would love to have you come visit.

❦ I am a published jewelry designer and a proud member of the international organization for the Self-Representing Artist in Jewelry Design -- SRAJD Member #4064.