As a child I collected rocks, shells, and animal bones on walks in the woods or on the beach. I still have that cigar box of natural treasures, along with the feeling of wonder for wild places.
I earned a BFA in painting from the Tyler School of Art of Temple University, and sharpened my observation and technical skills through 30 years of designing, sculpting, and painting dioramas and models for science museums in California, Taiwan, and North Carolina.In 1996 I moved to North Carolina to create exhibits for the NC Museum of Natural Sciences. Exploring natural areas with researchers and science educators, I developed a deep appreciation for the diverse native flora, fauna and landscapes across the South.