Tree of Life

A self-portrait in which I am surrounded by my family — my husband, my 3 sons, my parents and grandparents, and a great-grandparent (Little Grandma). Of course my family portrait would not be complete without my 3 canine pals, Sweet Pea, aka Petey, the Dalmatian, Daisy, the Wire Fox Terrier, and Isaac, the Welsh Terrier.

Inspired by tree of life artworks found in textiles, illuminated manuscripts, and ancient carvings, I created my version in stained glass, vitreous tile, glass beads, dichroic glass gems, porcelain tiles, Italian millefiori, rhinestone jewelry bits, and an evil eye charm.

While creating this piece, I lost my mother. I found comfort as I brought each motif to life, getting lost in the memories of each of these beloved family members.

It made a brief appearance in Get Lost! after dark at Charlotte SHOUT April 2023

photo credit: Mitchell Kearney

photos credit: Mitchell Kearney, on-site photos credit: Devon Carsten