I was born in New Mexico and am a direct descendent of the Choctaw Indians. I was exposed to Apache, Navajo, Pueblo and Zuni cultures which inspired me to create turned wood and alabaster vessels from their designs, including unique pieces which combine these two materials. I began turning wood many years ago, and later began working with alabaster after a visit to Tuscany, Italy, where I was introduced to alabaster as an art medium.
My formal technique training has been through wood-turning seminars from internationally-known turners. However, more important to the artistry of my pieces has been intensive self-study of Southwest Indian basketry and pottery, from which I have developed the shapes of my vessels.