MY STORY & PHILOSOPHY

My journey as an artist began on the picturesque island of Maui, where I was surrounded by the vibrant colors and natural beauty that would later inspire my work. Today, I reside in Southern California with my husband and our two dogs: Pualani, our joyful Labradoodle, and Tippy, our lovable "hot mess" rescue. Our family extends to my son, three stepdaughters, and four grandchildren who bring endless joy to our lives.

Art has always been a part of my life, thanks to my father, Chuck Sutherland. He was a talented artist, painting with acrylics and watercolors, and an accomplished scrimshaw artist. Our home was a gallery of his work, filled with paintings, carvings, and blown glass pieces. Inspired by him, I too began exploring various artistic pursuits, especially after retiring.

My artistic journey truly took off in my twenties when I discovered quilting. I quickly developed an eye for color combinations and created countless quilts for family and friends. This passion for creativity led me to beadwork and jewelry design. However, it was during the pandemic that my love for glass fusing emerged. I bought my first kiln and began experimenting with both art glass and recycled glass, driven by a desire to create beautiful pieces while reducing waste.

In 2022, I retired after 27 years of teaching elementary school, a career that I cherished deeply. My love for teaching still burns brightly, and I continually seek opportunities to share my knowledge and inspire others.

 

Each piece I create tells a story, a blend of my Hawaiian roots, my father’s artistic influence, and my own unique journey. Through my art, I strive to bring joy and beauty into the world, one piece at a time.