I have always been drawn to and aspired to create things that are simple, elegant, innovative and magical. It is not surprising that I was struck with a feeling of awe when I saw Markus Raetz's piece titled Samba for Johnny at the Hess Collection in Napa Valley more than 25 years ago. Sixty eucalyptus leaves were pinned to a high wall which created forms that appeared as both elements of nature and human forms simultaneously. It checked all the boxes!

I have never forgotten that experience. I tucked it away in my mind as something to explore when my busy family and professional lives slowed down a bit. A few years ago, I found a supplier of fresh eucalyptus leaves on Etsy and started on path to create my own leaf-formed illusions building on Raetz's creative foundation.

Instead of using a pencil or brush to create marks, the leaves serve as nature's perfect brushstrokes. They define the shapes just enough to allow the viewer to complete the illusion. Their surfaces serve as individual canvases which allow these otherwise ephemeral elements of nature to be preserved in acrylic and open up opportunities for varied colors and finishes. Each leaf has its own unique texture which engages with the light to create sub forms and subtle color differences. When suspended on pins, the leaves create dynamic shadows which add an interesting and thought-provoking dimension to the experience.

There is something about the human face that lends itself so well to this simple art form. Humans have a natural curiosity and awareness of faces. I am always excited to see who shows up when l start laying out a new piece and have enjoyed adorning them with jewelry and interesting headpieces. I have also been drawn to organic flows and forms that follow the natural curves and shapes of the leaves which when enhanced with iridescent pigments create sensations of energy and movement.

In all of my endeavors, I have sought out collaborators with whom to create. In exploring this medium, I have found nature to be an incredible co-creator!