keep it simple. and repeat, repeat, repeat.

Lately, I’ve found myself gravitating towards minimalism.

While on a recent field trip to the Museum of Modern Art in New York with my students, I found myself inexplicably drawn to the paintings of Barnett Newman.

Even though I never thought of myself as a fan of minimalism, I couldn’t get enough of the large color-field paintings with the “zipper” stripe running through them.

I’ve been working on some new pieces, in anticipation of an upcoming exhibition at the University of Wisconsin Osh-Kosh, and for a new collection for the summer trade shows.

I had originally thought I would create these ruffled welded steel pieces inspired by tree lichen and lace. But after some initial sketches, I realized my heart wasn’t in it.

Instead, I decided to play with the simple, minimal leaf form that has become my signature.

The other day, my friend Karen shared some images of this amazing wall installation from Erica Tonav’s boutique in Marin, California. Karen ended her post with the following thought:

“keep it simple. and repeat, repeat, and repeat.”

And as soon as I read it, I knew it was my new mantra.