My current work focuses on themes related to birds, particularly through my current heroic-sized owl project. This sculpture aims to capture our fascination with these creature, their wisdom, physical presence, and beauty.

The owl sculpture is created from heavy steel, symbolizing a dialogue between nature and human ingenuity by merging industrial design with the natural world. My work contrasts human creations with ecological wonders. While materials like steel offer both durability and aesthetic appeal, I acknowledge the irony that industrial activities often hinder ecological evolution, even as they draw inspiration from nature's designs.

In 2022, I discovered a decommissioned 1,000-gallon propane tank with a unique patina in the hills above Santa Fe, which I envisioned using for my owl sculpture. Thank you Jim Smith for believing in the owl and donating the tank! Its shape and distinctive patina resemble a silo, often seen as a metaphor for a system that operates in isolation, hindering collaboration and the flow of information. Additionally, it serves as a protective vessel. Throughout history, owls have held many meanings for humans; they commonly represent the solitary nature of spiritual enlightenment and the wisdom that comes from reflection and introspection. I propose the title "Silo Blossom" for this piece because, although the owl may appear isolated, it is an essential part of our ecosystem and mental landscape. Similarly, while the silo plays a crucial role in our industrial society, it is distinct from nature. It is the rupture of the silo that leads to a bloom of life, propelling society forward.

Moreover, my owl sculpture has the potential to incorporate built-in pollinator habitats, reinforcing the idea that what might seem isolated is, in fact, part of a broader, interconnected system of growth. Many of my observations of environmental changes, such as shrinking snowpacks and collapsing monarch butterfly populations, continue to inspire my work and emphasize the importance of addressing the ecological consequences of our consumption.

My artistic style is influenced by my upbringing in Vermont's Champlain Valley, where I spent countless hours exploring the local ecology—climbing trees, kayaking on Lake Champlain, and observing wildlife. This early connection to nature has profoundly shaped my work and deepened my appreciation for the environment.