Arts Directory

About

Gramling, SC teaching artist, I work in both arts education and as a visual artist, teaching and creating in a variety of media. I received a BA in Studio Art from Lander University and my Master of Education degree from Converse College. My studio, Chicken Coop Art Company, is a repurposed 95 year old arts & craft style bungalow. It is this rural setting that feeds my personal work. Producing works in the Realist manner and inspired by nature, I create two-dimensional work with a unique style of fluid strokes. I use traditional materials, pencil and brush on paper, stone and glass, ink and wax, to grasp movement and life — all things captured in the spontaneous dance and movement of the tool. My subject matter is straightforward, whether it is a pastoral landscape or sculpture or exploring identity through pencil drawings.

Currently, I have developed a primary interest in organic clay sculpture, feeling the observational relationship of art and science allows great creativity and flexibility. I construct with clay for its suppleness, delicacy and strength. Additionally, having students experiment with messy clay is therapeutic. Clay’s willingness to be transformed, both in form and texture, makes it a perfect medium for exploring the iconic interpretation of nature. Providing hands- on art making and reflective practice is essential in discovering or reclaiming our creative spark. My students, both young and old, tell me that they often find their creative “voice”, feeling both confident and successful in their artmaking.