I am certain the librarian thinks I am crazy. She has watched me check out books on authentic Caribbean cuisine, welding, schizophrenia, and kids’ books in Braille.

My sculptures come from what I read. Making a concrete form of the new knowledge helps me to figure out how to feel. I like addressing serious issues in a children’s book style with small words, humor, and color; that way the topic is approachable. Themes in my work are healing, play, questioning, funny, and dark.

The materials mimic my varied interests, from stretch cord to papier-mâché to all types of clay. I try to sculpt with reused materials. It’s the joy of discovering discounted stretch cord and designing a sculpture around them. I also enjoy using kids’ art supplies, such as papier-mâché and googly eyes. This puts the focus on play. My love for clay comes from its tactile nature. Pushing the clays’ limits is exciting, because I am like that.