RESEARCH STATEMENT

EXPLORATION EXPLOSION.

My research philosophy is rooted in curiosity, experimentation, and constant creation. I engage with design projects that use emerging technologies, materials analysis and exploration. At the heart of my practice is the design process: research, brainstorm, prototype, refine, and produce. I approach my work with a playful mindset—leaning into material exploration, creative research, and hands-on production without overthinking. This open, exploratory approach has proven both productive and fulfilling, allowing me to work quickly and consistently deliver strong results.

My professional client work includes producing a monthly Diversity & Inclusion holiday calendar for Continental Resources (contracted through Goad Abode), as well as high-end event invitations for IWC Schaffhausen. My ability to quickly turn around polished digital invitations has built a long-standing relationship with IWC, dating back to 2015.

Since returning to full-time teaching, I have intentionally scaled back client work to focus on self-directed projects that are conceptually rich, materially challenging, and personally fulfilling—particularly integrating fine art and design through laser-cut wood puzzle compositions. Recently, this work has expanded into home goods, furthering my exploration of form, function, and my personal visual storytelling of my love for color and whimsy forms. This shift has led to several creative opportunities, including curated group exhibitions at DNA Galleries, the Myriad Botanical Gardens, and Edmond Fine Arts (forthcoming May 2026), as well as consignment representation through DNA Galleries. These endeavors not only support my creative growth but also expand my professional network and visibility as a practicing designer-artist.

In Fall 2024, I presented Finding Your Passion at SECAC, where I discussed how personal projects can ignite creativity and offer unconventional paths to visibility for design-artist-educators, such as myself. I shared my interest in the use of technologies and materials that  I explore and how it can not only enhance my own creative practice but also shape future class projects and equip me to better support students in developing their own ideas. This personal creative exploration has directly enriched my teaching. Sharing real-world processes, obstacles, and discoveries with students creates a dynamic learning environment.

In conclusion, my research and creative practice are grounded in curiosity, experimentation, and a deep commitment to lifelong learning. By embracing an exploratory mindset and integrating emerging technologies with hands-on construction/assembly methods, I have developed a body of work that is both personally meaningful and professionally impactful. Whether through client work/relationships,, fine art exhibitions, or classroom experiences, my goal is to remain an active, evolving designer-artist-educator who inspires others to pursue their passions with intention, playfulness, and purpose.