I always knew I wanted to be an artist.

I moved to New York City in 1987 to study Fine Arts at the Fashion Institute of Technology, where I focused on drawing, painting, and sculpture. Realizing rather quickly that I did not, in fact, want to be a struggling artist, I shifted my studies to Decorative Arts Restoration. There, I learned woodworking, gilding, and the art of creating various decorative finishes — skills that would later become an important foundation for my creative career.

In 1990, I was fortunate enough to land a paid internship with Kevin Cross Restoration in SoHo. It was there that I developed patience, discipline, and a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and attention to detail. While the work itself lacked the creative spark I was craving, the experience taught me invaluable skills that continue to influence my work today.

In 1997, I became a member of United Scenic Artists, which opened the door to working on several feature film sets, including Meet Joe Black. For the first time, I was able to combine decorative painting, hands-on craftsmanship, and creativity in a truly collaborative environment. I loved being part of the process of bringing a set to life. Although it was an exciting experience, it was far from fashionable — and I realized I wanted more. I wanted to create, work with my hands, and still be connected to the world of style and design.

Then, in 1998, everything changed.

A good friend who was a photographer at J Crew asked if I would be interested in interviewing with her boss, who was looking for a creative, hands-on person interested in learning the art of styling soft goods and accessories. He was willing to train me on a trial basis — and the rest was history. I was hooked, I was in, I had finally found my niche.

I freelanced with J Crew for a little over a year before becoming a permanent member of their team in 1999. After the birth of my daughter in 2003, I stepped away from my full-time role, but continued a wonderful creative relationship with them as a freelancer.

Looking back now, I realize that every job and creative path I explored along the way played a role in shaping me into the stylist and artist I am today. Each experience added another layer — from fine arts and restoration, to scenic painting, styling, and visual storytelling.

During the pandemic, like so many people, I was forced to slow down. That unexpected pause allowed me to reconnect with nature, creativity, and ultimately, the part of myself that first brought me to New York City to pursue art all those years ago.

What began as a creative outlet gradually evolved into a renewed passion and an important part of my work and identity today.

I am currently an artist member of both Yellow Studio, in Cross River, NY as well as the Katonah Museum of Art, where I continue to explore mixed media and collage-based work. My artistic practice draws heavily from my background in styling, decorative arts, texture, composition, storytelling, and the beauty of collected objects — elements that have remained consistent throughout my creative journey.

In addition to creating original collage artwork, light boxes, curated collections, and DIY collage kits, I also host collage workshops designed to inspire creativity and self-expression for artists of all levels.

While the mediums may continue to evolve, the goal has always remained the same: to create something beautiful, thoughtful, and inspiring.