My Story

I graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University in 2001 with a degree in Graphic Design and a Minor in Art History. I began my career as a graphic designer in Parsippany, NJ and later moved to Glens Falls, NY to work for Reliable Racing Supply Co. I completed my graduate degree in Art Education in 2016 at The Pennsylvania State University in State College, PA. I was hired at Missisquoi Valley Union High School in 2012, and currently teach Advanced Studio Art, Graphic Design and AP Art. I am also an art instructor at Burlington City Arts in Burlington, VT.  When I'm not busy at school you can find me teaching stained glass, painting and other studio arts & crafts at my home studio, Blue Heron Art Studio, in Saint Albans, VT where I live with my energetic dog, Maple. 

As an art educator I have interests in a lot of processes and materials, but over the past few years I’ve grown to really love stained glass. I love creating something beautiful that captures the light. I also have a graphic design background, and have always worked with lettering and Illustrations. Colored pencil, pen and watercolor are some of my favorite materials to combine. 

When creating stained glass, I start with sketches and research. Then I move to the computer to draw my design. I use my Cricut to cut out the vinyl stencil pieces. Once I label the stencils, choose the glass and cut them out, I grind the edges to refine the shapes and apply the copper foil before burnishing. Once the burnishing is complete, I reassemble and arrange the pieces, apply the flux and begin to solder. Once the soldering step is complete, I use Novacan Black Patina to blacken the solder and finish the piece. 

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