The theory of symbiosis or emergence, the idea that a group can be dictated by the actions of both the individual and the collective whole, has had a great impact on my present and past work. The movement and organization of insects reflect this idea literally. Their simple struggles and clear objectives reflect an ideal that I admire, and wish to obtain in my own life. The old story of the three blind mice, and urban myths, such as the boy who ate pumpkinseeds and grew fruit from his ears, are more abstract reflections of the theory of symbiosis. These stories may not be attributed to individuals, but are created by cultures or groups of people working together. The nostalgic comfort and normative influence these stories embody is the subject of my work. I use the vessel and figure as starting points for my storytelling. The critters are made by turning shapes on the lathe, and dissecting and joining these shapes to create the desired forms. Three Blind Rats, Hive and Poor Peter were the first to be made in this manner, and soon after the vessels became more directly incorporated in the finished pieces. I have begun to explore the concept of the vessel as a tool to create context. Small sculptural objects are joined with the pots and bowls to create a narrative. My most recent narrative piece shows the struggle of mighty insects, such as dung beetles and ants, to move their burdens, represented by the maple burl pots. By showing a line of these insects crawling over and under their pots I hope to create a sense of movement and progression.

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