This body of work reflects my long standing fascination with the shamanic implements of the tribal arts. The vitality and spirituality of the tribal arts have a special meaning for me as a testament to the unfathomable mystery of life. In my work I am exploring novel ways of combining classic western forms with the organic patinas so often found in ethnic pieces.

These works evolved from a series of tool sculptures which I made during the 70s and early 80s. The feminine shape of the American hammer handle was very prominent in my tool pieces. By now working with heroic vertical scale and by employing complex organic surface treatments, I am creating sculptures which portray the transcendent power that arises when nature's forces are combined with the human psyche.