When I was a kid, my family and friends called me Jewelry Joy. I have always been intrigued with shiny beads, metals, and glass pieces. I collected them and used to make collages from tiny luminescent fragments.
Today, as an adult, I have come full circle, from a BFA in interior design and graphic arts which led somehow to an MPA in political science. I realized that working in these disciplines and mothering permitted little time for the demands of exploring a true love with my always passion—the glitter of glass. I enjoyed designing and making stained glass—great fun—but for me it cannot compare to the allure and romance that I feel for kiln-fired glass. I worked as an interior designer for years. I love that now I can be in control of what I do, rather than having anyone else dictate what I do.
After studying warm glass during the past two summers (2008 and 2009) at Snow Farm, Massachusetts, I am beginning to spread my wings. The magic of the kiln, which adds an element of mystery and capriciousness to any creation, is captivating. Each opening of the kiln brings surprises. It presents for me an element of possibility that no other medium holds.
I like to work with simple geometric patterns. I like a sparse feel to the pieces that I create. I love the magic of the clear glass in contrast to the color that I might choose to work with. The emotions that I’d like to convey with my work are mostly whimsy and lightness of spirit.
I’m basically a very serious and complicated person and my work is very different from me—very whimsical and sparse. My goals are to master more glass techniques and continue to experience the joy of discovering new possibilities.
