Biography

I am consumed with the natural treasures of our region. I spent my childhood walking our local streams with my father, a fisheries biologist, and became forever tied to the unrefined beauty of the Pacific Northwest. From the sounds of our waters, to the smells of our soil, to the precious balance of an old growth forest, our region breathes within me. Intertwined with this regions beauty are its Indigenous people. The confluence of these two forces forged my dedication to preserve their artwork and life ways. I have immersed myself in the art and culture of the Chinook people. I am compelled within my art to connecting both long time residents and one-time visitors to this feeling of place and our important history. Teaching this art has occupied my life for the last sixteen years. Working with adults as well as youth for the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde I have had the opportunity of meeting and learning from ancestors of the Chinookan people. I believe I have an understanding of them and how they would like to see their art and culture carried forward.