(703) 220-4473
dtinkerdesigns@gmail.com
Bio:
When I began sewing at about age 10, I had no idea how far this skill would carry me. I realize now that my art journey began in fiber arts when I expanded on my sewing abilities in my 30s, creating art-to-wear for myself and my two small boys. Subsequently, I learned about dyeing fabric with both chemical and natural dyes, too, but I did not discover my abilities in visual art until I was in my 50s, a bit late as compared to most other artists I know. While I was in the Navy, I finished my MA in clinical and community psychology and had the opportunity to work in mental health. After reading articles about art therapy, I decided to pursue art therapy certification. One requirement to apply for acceptance into the program was to complete fifteen hours of studio art from an accredited college. As I proceeded through the art therapy program, I realized how much I enjoyed creating art far more than I enjoyed studying art therapy. Halfway through the program I dropped out to make my own art—one of my best decisions ever. Living in Northern Virginia, I found a plethora of resources for studio art and art history education. Thus far, I have well over 1,000 contact hours in classes and my interest has never faded. Since I was already “old” in my mind, I felt I had a lot of catching up to do, experimenting with different media, of which I still work in several, but I no longer weld or forge. More recently, I have been learning block printing and have started weaving on a rigid heddle loom. In addition, I have learned wet and needle felting. Writing this bio has helped me realize my “full circle” moment, in that my first art adventures were in fiber art, to which I have returned.
