Artist Statement
I do the work that I do simply because I love it. I love getting to see the world of the characters as it comes together around me building each show. Throughout my childhood I was always told that I belong in the theatre because I am a drama queen, but I have never been a fan of performing in front of people directly. I would much rather have my work on display in front of people. As a scenic carpenter, I have been given the opportunity to build the world in which everyone will be enveloped: to add to the magic of theatre by transporting anyone who walks into the space into a new world entirely. I have been given the opportunity to create new pieces of art which I would not have had the chance to create before, and I have been given the freedom to break away from the classic usage of carpentry which I have implemented throughout my childhood. Going into scenic carpentry has opened the door to a world of possibilities for me as a young woman heading out into the career field of theatre.
While working on a project, I like to take my time and be as detailed as possible. I tend to work from the more general ideas and topics in towards the more specific ideas, making sure to add a new level of detail to each new layer of work. I always begin my work with a generous amount of research on the topic which I am using and I prefer to take my time to understand what it is I'm building rather than to throw something together with little to no understanding. I always try to make informed decisions influenced by my research or through my life experiences with working on projects similar in nature.
In May 2019 I graduated Magna Cum Laude with my B.F.A Theatre Design and Technology with an emphasis in scenic carpentry and stage management as well as a minor in general business. Throughout my time in college, my professors always commented on how organized I am as a person, and about how naturally skilled I am at being a leader or a head of authority. I was put in charge of the shop while my boss had to leave, and I have always had an affinity for seeing what needs to happen next and making sure that it happens.
Being a girl of slight stature, who only measures in at 5’-1”, I tend to be more versatile in the work environment than my male colleagues which allows me to show off my ability to be a strong, independent woman. By working as a carpenter and a welder, I am taking it upon myself to show that women can have a place in a shop, and that we are just as capable as our fellow employees.