The polar vortex has come and gone, and the days are a bit longer, but New England’s spring exists only in gardening catalogs that tease and torment me.

While many bemoan the long winter days, I take solace in my studio. Hiding in nooks & crannies I have a veritable "plant cemetery" of specimens to study. Last summer I collected garlic scapes and tied them with wire, hoping to force them to dry in graceful shapes. In my head, I saw a collection, a ballet de corps, of fluid, dancing garlic scapes that would complement the image above. It didn't work quite as I had hoped, but on cold gray days, I am happy to experiment, play, and seek out the unexpected beauties lurking in my garden of detritus.

During the winter months, my studio is open by appointment and I really do enjoy the opportunity to share my work. Lovely as my flowers are, they are not very good conversationalists¦ So please plan a visit if you are in the neighborhood. From the comfort of your couch, take a tour of New Beginnings, an online exhibit by Manhattan International Arts where you can see art from around the world. I am very honored to be part of this show.

As far as art is concerned, 2018 is off to a good start.