I'm really excited to be starting on a new, big project! I have been commissioned by James Monroe elementary school in Edison, NJ to create three glass and steel wall sculptures for their beautiful, brand new school. In 2014, the original school was destroyed by a fire which resulted in the staff and students spending the next three years temporarily using space in other area schools in an effort to carry on. Their school has been completely rebuilt and the new building is huge, modern, and full of light. When I first met with them, I was impressed by the resilience of the staff who, despite their difficult years, expressed a deep sense of gratitude for all the people and institutions who supported them along their journey back to Sharp Road. The only remaining piece of the old school is a name plaque that was rebuilt into their new lobby. On either side of it, as well as throughout most of the building, the walls are white and without any adornment. We discussed how that would be a perfect focal point to add some artwork, both to honor the old as well as celebrate the new. A theme in my art is transformation and I suggested I could create wall sculptures to place on either side of the name plaque that depict the growth that they have experienced as a school community as they returned to their former location. To make it timeless, I also wanted to highlight the students and honor the changes they go through during their years in elementary school. With an adorable mascot to work with-- the owl-- I began to envision it. These two baby owls are the first elements to come out of my kiln but there is so much more to come. Stay tuned! I can't wait to share it with you.