Artist Statement
I love working with glass! It's like being a kid playing with the hot wax of a candle, but even better. My work expresses the fun I have creating whimsical, bright, colorful, unique and fun to wear jewelry for all ages!
About the Artist
Annie grew up in Western Michigan surrounded by art and creativity. Her grandmother was dress designer and her mother was an interior designer. She loved to watch them at work and whether by genetics or osmosis, by the time she went to college she knew which field she wanted to go into. Annie earned her BFA in graphic design from Michigan State University in 1990. She had always loved the art of glass blowing , but was daunted by the expense, equipment, and large spaces involved. However; when the opportunity came around one summer for her to attend a glass bead making class at Ox-Bow....a summer art school affiliated with the Art Institute of Chicago, she found her passion. She loved the challenge of working with a high powered, precise torch, sculpting brightly colored transparent and opaque glass using different tools, techniques and gravity until it became something special. Ever since, Annie has been creating her own miniature pieces, fitting them into fun-to-wear, whimsical art. The keystone of her inspiration is the love of color and texture. Annie exhibits in galleries and shops across the country, as well as being a published artist and teacher. She is a member of the International Society of Glass Bead Makers (ISGB).