Hi, I’m Jill.

Artist, maker, and curious soul following a creative path.

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I live in the Sierra Foothills of Northern California, where forests, rivers, winding roads, and wild things provide a pretty wonderful backdrop for life and art. Nature has a way of slowing me down and reminding me to look a little closer. I bring that same curiosity into my creative practice, following colors, textures, ideas, and the often unexpected detour.

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My earliest memories of creativity go back to making crafts with my mom as a toddler. By 14, I spotted a newspaper ad for a basket-weaving apprenticeship. I had no idea where it would lead, but I knew I wanted to be part of it and excitedly rode my bike across town for an interview! That led me to five years at the Kirmeyer School of Fiber Studies, where I learned from master weaver Maxine Kirmeyer. Later, I earned my B.A. in Studio Art at San José State University, where I continued exploring materials, techniques, and new ways of making. Since then, I've wander back and forth through weaving, sculpture, ceramics, painting, collage, gel plate printing, block printing, mixed media, mosaics, web design, graphic design, and digital art.

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What I love most is the process: mixing materials, trying new techniques, layering, making a mess, and seeing what emerges. I’m drawn to the challenge of bringing an idea to life, even when it means venturing into unfamiliar materials or techniques. I believe in being brave enough to try, learning through the process, and seeing what’s possible.

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Alongside my own art practice, I've spent many years in public education, helping students with disabilities and supporting educators in making learning more accessible. These days, I am a part-time instructor for future special education teachers and also lead art workshops for adults in my local community. I love creating space for people to explore materials, build skills, and discover what happens when they follow their curiosity. 

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For me, creativity is a way to feel connected and grounded, to work with my hands, follow my curiosity, and explore things that don't always come with words. Sometimes art starts with an idea, sometimes with a happy accident, and often with a pile of supplies and absolutely no plan!

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~ Jill