Booth 318
(See map below)
About the Artist
The inspiration, along with my materials all come from my explorations in natural environments, the basis for biophilic design. Highly dimensional "green" art compositions were created by applying and layering a medium of sustainable natural elements with various methods of painting and staining and accented with glass mosaic. Additionally, jigsaw and sanding of some of the natural medium is needed before applying various techniques of painting. We all have a deep connection to our natural world. This is referred to as biophilia. I am a biophilic artist and designer.
As an artist, landscape designer, and interior decorator, it was only a natural transition to begin creating artwork with materials from nature. Bringing natural elements into the home and workplace has been scientifically proven to elevate mood and productivity. My Interpretations of natural environments are mostly inspired by how texture interacts with each other. The mosses I use, provide me with a colorful textural medium, allowing me to “paint” and “sculpt “.
The mosses are harvested and are first dried then dyed in various colors and then soaked in Glycerin which preserves the plant indefinitely. I then clean the mosses, removing any forest debris like pine needles and leaves. I dry lay the moss, essentially “sketching” with the medium before adhering them to my wood substrate. Unlike most art which is framed after the piece is complete, my “canvas” starts with a completely painted and framed board of wood which allows my highly dimensional medium to attach right up to the frame. After I am satisfied with the layout of moss, I add elements like cork bark or pine bark.
In the case of Fantasea Forest, I wanted to combine forest elements with the colors of the Caribbean sea and the sparkle of the water, creating an underwater forest wall of sorts. I white and gray-washed pieces of pine tree bark that I hand collected. I placed them directly on the painted wood and some I “floated” above the wood, using small blocks. I also clean and place wood ear mushrooms, many of which I need to cut flat on the backside in order for the mushroom to adhere properly, the mushrooms are washed in a white/grey color. I adhere all the moss and blow away all small loose moss from the art. I mosaic reflective glass into the work using a waterproof clear adhesive. I love adding that sparkle of glass with the natural earthiness of my other materials. Lives and works in Fort Lauderdale, FL.
