I was born in Jeannette, Pennsylvania. I attended Philadelphia College (now University) of Art and received my BA in 1968. There, I was attracted to weaving and fiber art. I then attended Cranbrook Academy of Art in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, where I received my MFA in 1970. Working under Robert Kidd, I attained the skills of doing commission fiber art for homes and public spaces.

I have been at Wayne State University since 1972 and hold the rank of full professor. I teach weaving and fabric printing and dyeing. My goal with my students is to expose them to the fiber arts and to ignite in them a commitment to their work as I have found with mine.

I have always thought that the people of Detroit were fortunate to have Saarinen's architectural wonder, the complex of schools and museums known as "Cranbrook," in the area. Those familiar with Cranbrook and its history understand that at the same time these buildings were being built, Saarinen chose and commissioned artists to design and make the furniture, rugs, wall hangings and other art objects that would complement the architecture.

I have exhibited widely, both nationally and internationally, but I prefer working on commission with individuals. Public commissions expose one to many people, and I enjoy the challenge. Showing at and working through galleries and interior designers has also been a way of meeting many new clients. I am honored to have been able to work in a collaborative way with my clients to produce fiber work that has become an integral part of their environment.

Our home in Pinckney, Michigan is an example of how one lives with fiber art and art in general. It is my showroom. I enjoy sharing it with people who appreciate a creative environment. We opened the house as a bed and breakfast in 1990 and have enjoyed the diversity of our many guests.