Artist Statement:
Through drawing I explore an everyday “landscape” that often goes unnoticed: food, specifically: sugary, high calorie, yet so delicious… desserts. The complex topography of frosting, sprinkles, flaky pastry dough, and creamy fillings are textural and sensual. The process of creating a drawing is a fusion of my desires, observations, and memories. I draw from real pastries, rather than photos. Having the food right in front of me involves the senses: sight, smell, and taste. I try not to eat what I’m drawing… it doesn’t always work. Self-control and discipline are concepts that drive my work. For me the process of drawing the real cupcake or cookie, forces me to confront my desire; examining my relationship to the food, both physically and psychologically.

I find that food is a subject that most people can identify with. I view the food with an objective eye. My observational drawings are created by using a magnifying glass to analyze textures and view the detailed surface of the desserts. The medium of pen and ink allows me to create fine lines and minute details. Without color, the items that I draw lose their identity and become open to interpretation.

Biography:
I have been drawing and creating art for as long as I can remember. Raised in rural Keene, New Hampshire, I am a transplant to the Plattsburgh area. I initially came to New York to attend the College of St. Rose in Albany. In December 2007, I graduated from St. Rose with a dual degree: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting and Drawing and NYS certification for Art Education (K-12). Honors and Achievements include: Magna cum Laude, participation in the Lorenzo di Medici Studies Abroad program in Florence, Italy (2007), Hy Rosen Award for Excellence in Painting and Drawing, Outstanding Senior for Art History and Art Education, participation in the Juried Undergraduate Art Shows at St. Rose 2004-2007, and a People’s Choice Award in 2006 Undergrad Show. I have been inspired by the ink drawings of Leonardo da Vinci, scientific drawings from field guides, topographic maps, and several contemporary artists.

During my “free” time I enjoy eating pastries and good food, dabbling in cooking, running, kayaking, hiking, and reading.

I am currently working on developing a body of work for my portfolio to apply for Graduate School, with hopes of being admitted to a Master of Fine Arts program in the next 2 years. I aspire to continue to grow as an artist and eventually show my work in more and more places. I envision myself teaching at a University level eventually… but I am open to this wild and wonderful life that lies ahead!