I often work in series to explore subjects that interest me.
Using the ancient medium of handwoven tapestry, I am exploring the sensual, female form. My “Burlesque Series” explores and portrays female sexuality and femininity from my perspective as a burlesque and belly dancer. Combining my passion for dance with my love of tapestry design and weaving I am creating a series intended to challenge the observer with complex, and often contradictory, societal views of women.
Cowgirl II
Cowgirl II is a self portrait in costume from a burlesque show. I enjoyed working with a simple unconventional palette. 40.25 x 14.75 inches, wool & cotton 2016 Artist's Collection
Dr. D' Lite
This work began with a photo from a burlesque show. i was drawn to this strong image and enjoyed working with a simple palette. 39 x 17.5 inches, wool & cotton, 2018 Artist's collection
Madeline
Beginning with a backstage photo, I reworked the image, pushing the colors and cropping closely. Madeleine exemplifies the joy and energy of a dancer. 34 x 15.25 inches, wool & cotton 2016 Artist's collection
Ingrid: Belly Dancer In Repose
Beginning with a backstage photo. I reworked the image, pushing colors and contrast until the background and foreground began to merge. I see Ingrid as coming out of the background, a metaphor for the emerging woman as she matures and grows into herself. 40 x 26 inches, wool & cotton 2016 Artist's collection
Amandaconda
The title of this tapestry, is taken from the stage name of the burlesque dancer portrayed. This young woman is bold, and proud of her body and her performance. The work speaks to the essence of neo-burlesque. 50 x 31 inches, cotton, 2017 Artist's collection
Temptation
My tapestry “Temptation” explores the complexity of sexual identity and gender. It was inspired by drag performances. I was permitted to photograph performers while doing hair and makeup. One performer, Chocoláte, granted me the privilege of sharing an intimate moment, as she donned her wig. The photos I took of her inspired this work. Issues of individuality and concepts such as innocence, enlightenment and liberation were on my mind while working on this tapestry. 45.5 x 40 inches, wool and cotton, 2016 Artist's collection
Pas de Deux
Begun with a backstage photo at a burlesque performance, Pas de Deux symbolizes the duality of a dancer’s persona and the woman within. This work also expresses the fellowship and respect that develops between dancers. The lace work patterning is a reminder of antique lacework. What was once costly and rare, handmade by women at a meager wage, has become ubiquitous, so commonplace, it even adorns the derrière. Pinacothèque Museum, Luxembourg Art Prize, Certificate of Artistic Achievement 2021, Won first place at Heallreaf 2017, 23.5 x 39.5 inches, wool & cotton, 2016 Artist's collection