I am the sole creator of each piece of art to wear produced from my studio, personally selecting each component that goes into a finished work. My preferred beadwork methods are bead embroidery and freeform peyote because they can ideally convey my creativity to its fullest. Beadwork is the best medium I have found where what I visualize, what my mind's eye sees, my hands can recreate.

Bead embroidery is a technique of hand stitching individual or small groups of 4 to 6 beads to a backing material. Freeform peyote is a stitch where beads are sewn together, one at a time. I rarely begin a project with absolute surety of the finished piece. I assemble a palette of beads, but I allow the work to develop organically as I stitch.

I am most influenced by collage artists and photographers, particularly Dave McKean and Nick Bantock, for composition. For structure and balance I turn to my study of architecture, especially that of Corbusier and Gaudi. I am also inspired by the sounds, smells, people, and landscapes of the Northwest and Southwest.

When someone wears my work, I want them to feel like they are part of a living sculpture. My designs enhance and accentuate that person's uniqueness, their individuality.

I show my work at the Joslyn Art Museum Gift Shop, and at Dundee Gallery, both in Omaha, Nebraska. I list supply items and finished work at http://www.thejadedog.etsy.com