Artist Biography I grew up in Ohio and knew at an early age that I wanted to be a biologist. I received a Ph.D. in genetics at Ohio State University, held several research positions and eventually taught biology at Santa Fe College for more than thirty years. My biology experiences have provided a wealthy source of inspiration for my artistic endeavors, which have ranged from floral design to outdoor cement and mosaic sculptures and sewing. About ten years ago, I focused on quilting, first making traditional quilts and I then became intrigued by art quilting, which I have pursued exclusively for the last six years. I love to work with beautiful fabrics, threads, textile paints and unusual fibers which can be heated and distorted. My art quilts have been exhibited in several regional quilt shows and have won several awards. I have applied my fiber art techniques to wall hangings, handbags and glasses/cell phone cases, which can be seen at local art festivals and in the Gainesville Artisans’ Guild Gallery. Artist Statement I have always loved the natural world and my biology background helps me interpret that fascination by working with beautiful fabrics, and unusual fibers. I am particularly interested in exploring a variety of stitch types, both hand and machine, as well as using many types of embellishments, textile paints, and fabric manipulations to enhance and produce texture in my fiber art pieces.