I have always been attracted to metal.

My first memory of this attraction was discovering some dimes in the glove box of my Aunt's Volkswagon beetle. The trees on the back of the dimes where shiny and mesmerizing.

When I was seven, I remember repairing my Avon ballerina necklace -- you know -- the one with the moving legs.

I took my first jewelry class in high school and the rest is history. After completing five years of jewelry and metal at the University of New Mexico, I graduated with a B.A. in Art Education.

I got my start by selling my jewelry at flea markets in Santa Fe and Albuquerque and teaching children's art classes.

After three years, I gave up teaching so I could become a full-time artist and exhibit at juried art fairs. Now in my 10th Anniversary year, I continue to make jewelry using techniques such as box construction, married metal, hinging and cloisonne enamel.

My materials include sterling silver and gold sheet metal, enamel and semiprecious stones. I design all my jewelry with the intention to integrate color, space, texture, form and movement.

When not making jewelry, I knit, play softball, go bowling and build houses with Habitat for Humanity.

Paula