I have a tear catcher dated from the 1800’s that makes me wonder about it’s back story every time I run my fingers over the inscription.  This was the inspiration behind the ‘Gardener’s Valentines’, based on sailor’s valentines.  Exploring relationship is not new to my work, but  I've set myself the task of making heirlooms.  We as artists watch as collections make their way to the secondary market.  I am curious to explore what makes an object dear; dear enough that it transcends the original owners, and acquires it’s own magic.