About

My ceramic art is directly influenced by my study of Buddhist philosophies. The teachings of the Dharma and the visual culture of this religion greatly shape the way I think and how I approach my art. On the surface, my work expresses my interest in the visual cultures of the East mixed with Western street art themes. The deeper I go, the teachings of the Dharma are filtered through my mind and reinterpreted in the forms and characters I create. Using cute teddy bears and street art elements also act as a way to lighten the heavy subject matter I present and avoid cultural appropriation. By using traditional and contemporary techniques and philosophies, I can create unexpected combinations of the old and new mixed with the East and West. Creating art with religious influence comes with the risk of misunderstanding and the potential inability for viewers to detach from religious imagery. But, I want my work to welcome the viewer, to make them feel like joyous when engaging in spiritual contemplation. I strive to make my work a symbol of the teachings of the Buddha -- to always question, to never be comfortable with an answer someone else gives and to encourage others to find their own unique path.

EDUCATION

Kent State University, Kent OH - Master of Fine Arts in Ceramics 

Fall 2005 - Summer 2007

Northwest Missouri State University, Maryville MO - Bachelor of Fine Art 

Fall 1997 - Spring 2004

Northwest Missouri State University, Maryville MO - Bachelor of Science

Fall 1997 - Spring 2004

TEACHING EXPERIENCE

University of Saint Mary, Leavenworth KS - adjunct art instructor

Fall 2021- Spring 2023

Curry College, Milton MA - Assistant Professor Special Appointment

Fall 2017 -  Spring 2019

Northwest Missouri State University,  Maryville MO- Adjunct Art Professor

Fall 2008- Spring 2015, Spring 2016

Hiram College, Hiram OH - Substitute Professor/Visiting Artist

March 2007

Kent State University, Kent OH - Graduate Assistant

Fall 2005 - Fall 2006