Portfolio of Work
My recent body of work is titled "Microcosms of Presence".
“Microcosms of Presence" is an intimate inquiry into the transformative power of memory and mindfulness. This body of work showcases a series of small silver sculptures that evoke physical and emotional spaces where mindfulness is experienced. Silver is a conductive and reflective material that originates in ancient supernova. The slow and meticulous process of hand-fabricating in silver forges a contemplative conversation between cherished memories and present-moment awareness. The work sparks recognition of what is precious in the interaction between the inner and outer life. Each piece encapsulates presence as it distills and holds feelings of connection and belonging that arise from experiences of deep and skilled listening. The scale of the work calls attention to human response to smallness and challenges our perception in contemporary culture of what it means to take up space. “Microcosms of Presence” reflects on the significance of direct and singular moments that act as seeds in our being which contain potential for future growth.
"In a Circle"
hand-fabricated in sterling silver
individual chair - 2.5 x 1.1 x 1.2 cm
installation - 2.5 x 12 x 12 cm
“In a Circle” is a miniature installation consisting of thirteen hand-fabricated silver chairs arranged in a circle. This piece reflects my memories of working at a retreat centre where sitting in a circle was a recurring and significant responsibility. The work encapsulates presence and belonging as it distills and holds considerable emotional weight from experiences of vulnerability, connection and deep listening.
"Visit the Cedar"
hand-fabricated in sterling silver
cedar branch - 3 x 19.5 x 25 cm
bench - 3.8 x 4.5 x 2 cm
This two-part silver sculpture of a northern white cedar branch with clusters of blooming cones accompanied by a miniature park bench is inspired by my visits to a large cedar hedge that lives along a stretch of the Iron Horse Trail near my house in Kitchener. In this work I place lengths of silver wire in a fractal pattern and fuse them together with a torch to explore the shape of inter-connection and well-being. The piece expresses the kinship I feel with cedar.
"For Here"
hand-fabricated in sterling silver
4.8 x 9 x 3.6 cm
“For Here” is a finely fabricated silver miniature depicting a café scene: two chairs arranged around a bistro table set with a plate holding a croissant on a serviette and two coffee cups, one resting in its saucer with a small spoon. The piece is inspired by the many meaningful and uplifting conversations I’ve shared at a cafe with a friend. The work is a microcosm of hospitality as it creates room for trust, intimacy and comfort, despite being open to public view.
"Return"
hand-fabricated in sterling silver
3.7 x 6.5 x 6.6 cm
“Return” is a small silver sculpture composed of a miniature park bench with swallowtail butterfly wings affixed to either side of its backrest, and a classical labyrinth motif radiating outward from its front right leg. In this piece, I distill my numerous experiences of walking labyrinths to explore the phenomenon of connection that occurs when feelings of awakening and grounding meet and rest in the same inner space. The work embodies the mystery of presence.