My Artistic Journey as a Nature-Inspired Sculptor

​The journey to becoming a nature-inspired sculptor was not one I could have predicted, but looking back, it feels as though every moment of my life has led me here. I believe that each artist’s journey is deeply personal, often shaped by forces far beyond their control, and mine is no different. My work, which weaves together bark, vines, and other natural elements into sculptural forms, is not just a reflection of my surroundings—it’s an intimate expression of my connection with nature, faith, and the beauty that exists in the simple things. Here’s how it all unfolded.

The Roots of My Creative Journey
I grew up in middle Georgia and went to college in the southern Appalachian region, surrounded by mountains that stretched far beyond what my young eyes could fathom. The landscape was a constant source of fascination for me, and my childhood was spent exploring the forests, streams, and open spaces around me. At the time, I didn’t realize how much those early experiences in nature would shape my future as an artist.

My journey into art didn’t begin in the traditional sense. I wasn’t trained in an art school, nor did I grow up dreaming of becoming an artist. I came to it almost by accident. My love for nature, however, was always there. It wasn’t until the early 1990s that I discovered basketry and started experimenting with weaving techniques. This practice allowed me to merge my deep appreciation for natural materials with a creative outlet I hadn’t yet tapped into.

I remember the first time I picked up a vine and tried to form it into something beyond its natural state. There was something magical about it—how it resisted and yet yielded at the same time, as if the material itself had a story to tell. The process of weaving felt meditative, a dance between my hands and the elements I was working with. And so, from that moment, I was hooked.

Weaving as a Creative Language
Over time, I realized that weaving wasn’t just a craft or a hobby; it was a language—a way for me to speak with nature and tell stories through form. Each piece I created felt like a conversation between myself and the materials I was using. Bark, vines, branches—they all had a history, a life of their own before they ended up in my hands. My role was to honor that story and give it a new expression.

What drew me to nature-inspired sculpture wasn’t just the aesthetic appeal of organic materials but the deeper connection I felt to the natural world. There’s a certain rhythm in nature, a cycle of growth, decay, and rebirth that resonates with my spirit. It’s a constant reminder that we, too, are part of this intricate design. My sculptures, in many ways, reflect this understanding—there’s beauty in both the simplicity and complexity of natural forms.

I find myself continually inspired by the environment around me. Walking through the woods, I often stumble upon a twisted vine, a piece of bark, or a fallen branch, and I immediately see the potential for transformation. These raw materials become the foundation of my work, and it’s through them that I seek to convey a sense of harmony and balance. I want those who experience my art to feel the same awe and reverence for nature that I do, to see the beauty in the details and the stories embedded within each piece.

The Role of Faith in My Artistic Practice
My faith has always been central to my life, and it plays a significant role in my creative process. I believe that God is the ultimate creator, and as artists, we are merely reflecting His creativity through our work. For me, creating art is a form of worship—it’s a way to connect with the divine and share that connection with others.

There have been countless moments in my life when I’ve felt the guidance of the Holy Spirit in my work. Whether it’s a sudden inspiration for a new piece or the unexpected way materials come together, I know that my creativity is not something I generate on my own. It’s a gift, one that I’m called to steward.

This understanding has shaped not only how I approach my art but also how I approach life. I’ve learned to trust the process, to be patient when things don’t come together as quickly as I’d like, and to be open to the surprises that often emerge along the way. There’s a certain humility in working with natural materials—they don’t always do what you want them to, and that’s part of the beauty. It’s a reminder that we are not in control, but we can participate in something greater than ourselves.

Evolution of My Artistic Voice
As my career developed, so did my artistic voice. What started as a love for basketry grew into a desire to push the boundaries of what woven art could be. I began experimenting with other natural materials, incorporating elements like hand-hammered copper, recycled metals, and encaustic wax into my work. This evolution allowed me to create more complex, sculptural forms that went beyond the functional aspects of traditional basketry.

In recent years, I’ve focused on creating art vessels that celebrate both the natural world and the craftsmanship behind each piece. These vessels are not just objects; they’re symbolic, representing the connection between humanity and nature. Each one begins with a walk in the woods, where I carefully select materials that speak to me. I’m drawn to things that are imperfect, things that others might overlook. A crooked branch, a tangled vine—these elements have character and soul, and I love the challenge of transforming them into something new.

One of the themes I’ve been exploring more recently is the concept of using invasive species in my work. These plants, often considered nuisances, have their own unique beauty and utility. By incorporating them into my sculptures, I’m not only making a statement about sustainability but also finding creative ways to repurpose materials that would otherwise be discarded.

Crafting Art for Luxury Homes
One of the most rewarding aspects of my career has been seeing my art find a home in luxury spaces around the world. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about knowing that my work brings a sense of serenity and natural beauty into the homes of others. Many of my clients are drawn to the organic, tactile nature of my sculptures, and they appreciate the way these pieces create a bridge between the indoors and the outdoors.

I’ve had the privilege of working with interior designers, collectors, and homeowners who share my love for nature-inspired art. Whether it’s a coastal retreat or a mountain cabin, my sculptures are often featured as focal points in these spaces, helping to create an atmosphere of calm and connection.

Teaching and Sharing the Craft
In addition to creating my own work, I’ve always felt a strong calling to teach. I believe that the skills and knowledge I’ve gained over the years aren’t meant to be kept to myself. They’re meant to be shared. That’s why I’ve spent a significant portion of my career teaching others the art of basketry and nature-inspired sculpture.

There’s a deep satisfaction in watching others discover the joy of working with natural materials. Teaching allows me to pass on not only the technical skills of weaving but also the philosophical and spiritual aspects of the craft. For many of my students, working with their hands and creating something tangible becomes a form of healing, a way to reconnect with themselves and the world around them.

Looking Ahead
As I look back on my journey as a nature-inspired sculptor, I’m filled with gratitude for the path I’ve been able to walk. Every twist and turn, every challenge and triumph has shaped me into the artist I am today. But the journey is far from over. I’m continually inspired by the natural world and the endless possibilities it offers for creative expression.

My hope is that through my work, I can inspire others to see the beauty in the world around them—to slow down, pay attention, and appreciate the simple, profound gifts that nature provides. As an artist, my greatest joy comes from creating pieces that not only reflect the beauty of creation but also invite others to experience it in a deeper, more meaningful way.

I believe that art has the power to transform lives, to heal, and to inspire, and I’m honored to be a part of that process. This journey has been an incredible one, and I’m excited to see where it leads next.