I've always been involved in art. I can remember in grade school taking classes at the Toledo Museum of Art. Whether drawing, painting, or throwing pots, (not at anyone, I mean making them), I loved it all. So when I had the opportunity to learn scrimshaw and get paid for it, I was thrilled. That was during my high school years, and I've been “scratching”out a living ever since.

I've continued my education at the University of Toledo, and at the Toledo Museum of Art taking classes in drawing, painting and printmaking with a particular focus on anatomy and the human form. This has allowed me to pursue the wildlife themes in the scrimshaw art that I love.

There were no classes available in scrimshaw back then, so my technique is largely developed through trial and error. Thirty years of experience brings us to today. Now I teach scrimshaw and attend trade shows throughout the country. My work is in private collections all over the world. I also give short talks, seminars and demos. Commissions are gladly accepted, and in fact, make up the bulk of my work.

My husband Jim and I reside in the Toledo, Ohio area. Our daughter, Emily, is now working part-time in my studio with me, as she pursues her art degree