Projects > Plant+Sculpture

I am interested in the history of healing herbs from around the world, and how they tell the story of human survival. Many plants that we call “weeds” have powerful healing properties and play an important role in the shared ecosystem we are a part of. Making these objects gives me an opportunity to learn more about the world around me, and the history of spiritual and healing practices globally, which honor the natural world. Similar to European Pagans who brought evergreen trees into their home during winter solstice, or ancient Egyptians who used palm rushes to worship the god Ra, the works are an invitation to bring the natural world inside as a daily offering of breath and healing.

These aromatic vessels are made of forged and fabricated steel. Working with fire and metal is challenging, and endlessly satisfying. It keeps me on my toes. I use herbs and plants grown in my garden in the Riverwest neighborhood of Milwaukee, WI and the Armory Park neighborhood of Tucson, AZ where I spend part of the winter with my family. Whether in the West or Midwest, ethical harvesting and reciprocity with Nature is at the core of this work.