I work with Polymer Clay to create one-of-a-kind pieces drawing inspiration from
travels as well as music and stories I have enjoyed over the years. My first collection
was inspired by the Japanese Inro of ancient times. Each piece is a unique one-of-a-kind
design handcrafted in my California studio and are often on exhibit at
The Whittier Art Gallery.
An inro is a small box attached to a cord used to hold small objects in ancient
Japan. Because traditional Japanese clothing lacked pockets, objects were often
carried by hanging them from the obi, or sash. Most inro were created to hold specific
items, such as tobacco, pipes, a writing brush and ink, identity seals and medicines
but they were suited for carrying anything small. This history inspired me to create
a modern version which can also be used to carry small and very special items or
nothing at all.
Creating fantasy creatures is always a joy. I start with a ball or sheet of clay
and by the time it is finished it has a name and history all its own.