My artwork and life is fueled by a passion for books, art, literacy, and the practice of using these as a method of social change. Art restores a capacity of childlike wonder in a world that is prone to cynicism. Playfulness, creativity, a sense of humor, and curiosity should not only be encouraged in children, but in adults as well. My belief is that art is in the everyday all around us. Life is art and art is life. The most banal can be the most profound. While I enjoy making a variety of artwork, collage and assemblage out of old books and everyday objects are my preferred materials. As both an artist and an art educator, I have noticed a trend that my artwork has become less about me and more about being participatory and interactive with others. Because art is a method of communication, its natural state is a form of collaboration.