About Me

A walk in the woods provides the inspiration for my work. I always carry a small baggie to collect precious treasures that I love weaving into my art.

I am a papermaker and artist focusing on the natural world for my source of inspiration and materials. My current work reimagines handmade paper and deconstructed books as sculptural elements. My work asks viewers to examine relationships with and between paper, wood, and trees.

Oak trees are a common theme in my completed pieces. Oak leaves, barks, twigs, and other found natural objects insert their way into my creative process.

I create artist books with many of the same natural elements. The book - as art - shares many interests in one medium. The book allows for further exploration of what we expect from a book and how expectations can be manipulated.

I also make paper blossoms, reminiscent of Chinese brush painting. Each piece is formed one-by-one, each unique. These blossoms are then assembled into sculptural. Again, I add natural tree branches, recycled wood, and other embellishments. I love how paper can fool the eyes.

As a papermaker, I integrate plants as bases and accents for my papers and paper dyes. I utilize plants considered invasive or ubiquitous around my home. I then use my handmade papers in my art pieces. I also incorporate handmade papers from other countries, often from women’s cooperatives and sustainable sources.

My background includes art and writing degrees. I live in Lodi, Wisconsin, in the rolling hills north of Madison. My husband, Dean Allen, is a sculpture. Together we own and operate D Squared Studios, a studio and creative space where we seek to share our work and skills with others.

I am happy to create commissions upon request. If you see a piece that interests you, please contact me.