My Big Daddy series is derived from my memories surrounding the carpentry tools of my grandfather, Ralph Martin. Although he died before I was born, my father would use these tools from time to time to build things in our garage. Dad did not use them very often, but they remained with him throughout his life, acting almost like relics to remind him of his father. I love the way these tools feel in my hand. They are worn and when I hold them I can imagine my grandfather framing a doorway or smoothing a plane.

Presently, I am working in both pastel and scratchboard as my medium for this series. The use of scratchboard was inspired by an assignment that I do with my 6th grade students where we explore texture, patterns and design. I enjoy creating something sophisticated out of what is often viewed as a child’s medium.