Biography
A bio becomes different over time. I see my past as a series of moments; accomplishments and lessons learned along the way.
Living in Spain while in college, under the fascist regime of Francisco Franco, my Spanish friends and I walked down the middle of streets so no one would be able to report on our conversation. People lived with fear. One does not forget. One does not forget the Guardia Civil.
In the 70’s, I worked for the United Farmworkers helping build what eventually grew into a nationwide boycott of lettuce, grapes and Gallo wine, creating a financial squeeze on growers, and on Agra Business, resulting in improved working conditions for migrant farmworkers. From one, to many, to making a difference.
I obtained my Master of Architecture from Harvard University Graduate School of Design. A powerful education.
I started teaching design in the Art Department at the University of Massachusetts Amherst in part to explore methods of teaching studio art and architecture. I found that I loved working with students, helping them uncover their strengths and direction as designers.
My interest in teaching grew as did my dedication to the idea of creating an accredited, licensable degree in architecture at the University of Massachusetts. At the time the only path to become a licensed architect in New England was through a private school education. Elite, expensive, and male dominated. I became the Founding Director of what eventually grew into the Department of Architecture, creating the first Master of Architecture and the first licensable degree for architecture in a public university in New England.
My architectural practice has been focused on well crafted, well detailed, environmentally sound, homes. To be lived in, in relationship to site and seasons.
I have also worked with clay over time. Wheel. Sculpture. Hand building. Reduction firing. Oxidation firing. All require distinct materials, skills, and knowledge.
Now, Professor Emerita, I walk our hills. I see changes. Daily. Seasonal. Yearly. Weather. Light. I have allowed myself the time and space to see more deeply, more carefully, and to pursue studio interests.
Form, surface, art, technology, place, all life-long interests that I am now exploring through photography. My current work is a commentary on our fragile forests. Much is overlooked. Fleeting. I feel the shifts of time.
