Autumnal Splendor Collage

My inspiration comes from a life-long affinity for the rich possibilities I find in the everyday clutter of modern life. I see potential in security envelopes, caps, lids, junk mail, bubble wrap, labels, barcodes, text, maps, coffee cup sleeves, and magazine ads. These materials impart a visual and physical “feel” to collage that is pivotal in my art. I approach each piece as an opportunity to transform the colors, textures, and graphic elements inherent in these short-lived castoffs into compelling works with renewed beauty and meaning while expressing an alternative possibility of what they could be. These seemingly disparate elements are deliberately chosen to create connections within the diverse layers of the piece and are unified with the conscious use of other media like acrylics, inks, watercolors, pastels, pencils, markers, or photographs. My current work is influenced by graphic elements found around us, both urban and natural — signs, typography, manmade structures, natural features, topography, and daily detritus. I received a BS in Materials Science Engineering and an MS in Architectural Studies with an emphasis in Historic Preservation from the University of Utah. I've worked in the aerospace industry as a Materials and Process Engineer and later at the Utah State historic preservation office and arts council. These fortuitous experiences contribute distinctly towards my art and my abilities to be a self-taught artist. I has exhibited locally in shows at the Utah Arts Council Rio Gallery, Bountiful/Davis Art Center, Art Access Gallery, UAF Gallery, the Utah Arts Festival, and the Salt Lake City Public Library branches and nationally with the Collage Artists of America and National Collage Society. I was born in Manila, Philippines and currently live in Salt Lake City, Utah with my husband Roger. We try to experience all the wonders of Utah whenever we can—skiing, hiking, camping, mountain biking, and exploring remote, wild places.