The Art of Fashion
Art meets fashion in my original designs. What we wear can be one of the most vital art forms of daily soulful expression. Clothes can convey our creative spirit, and allow us to shine our light in a way that reflects our mood, enhances our groove or declares our philosophy of living.
Until the age of 40, I didn’t see myself as creative. Then something took hold. After a lifetime love of style, I began exploring painting. Passionate about color, fabrics, and clothing as a means of self-expression, I painted artwork and my own surface designs on silk. I then began transforming the fabrics into clothing and accessories.
Whether painting or designing… I let the colors lead the way, guided by an eye for modern style, beauty and sophistication. Once the fabric comes to life, I explore the possibilities of texture, movement and drape. My fabrics may go out into the world on their own — or in conjunction with other feel-fabulous fabrics. Grommets, leather, hoods or other embellishments add that surprise, unexpected edge, or sensuous contrast that further enriches the visual and felt experience.
To determine its visual impact, I spend time layering the fabric with itself, other fabrics and over garments and entire outfits. My goal is for my designs to connect with — and light up — the wearer with joy and a sense of individuality and vibrancy. As if I’ve created the piece for just that woman.
My work has been called “visual poetry”. Whether the sunniest orange or the most muted neutrals, my hope is to create a feeling of delight and delicious surprise. Once on the body, the designs truly come to life as art.
My influences, are well, everywhere.
I look to many cultures and tribes for their rich color palettes and glorious textiles. I admire the women on the streets of Paris and Milan who transform a simple outfit with a single stroke of fabric, dramatic color or unexpected design. And I also love the painterly light, natural forms and lifestyle of the West Coast. Here, silk and jeans are a modern expression of elegance with ease — beautiful to look at but also easy to live in.
Creating ‘art to live in’ is joyful – from the first brushstroke to unexpected pieces that give each woman her own paintbrush for sharing her vibrancy and style with the world.