Art
“Art, freedom, and creativity will change society faster than politics.” -Victor Pinchuk
I’ve never been able to dedicate myself to a single artistic discipline: there’s always more to explore, to learn, different ways to express what needs to be said. The urge to create worlds around myself has led me to fashion costumes to accompany my live performances, craft images from both behind and in front of the camera, and scratch down dreams and visions onto paper. The wisdom of nature, expressions of divine femininity, and subversive demonstrations of freedom inspire my art.
Photography
Film is magic to me; it feels like a delicious mystery to click the shutter and not know whether the photo came out as I desired or not. Though I also shoot digitally, working with film informs how I like to approach this medium: taking time to be present and intentional. Making a photograph is a meditative process for me: casting a temporary spell around me, my camera, and my subject. My images reflect this intimate quiet, inviting you into a fleeting moment made eternal.
Printmaking + Visual Art
I began playing around with linocut printing in 2020; isolated and lacking artistic collaborators for photo shoots, I turned to printmaking as a solo creative outlet. It has quickly become one of my favorite forms of expression, bridging the gap between handmade one-of-a-kind pieces and mass production. I also dabble in ink drawings and an occasional watercolor!
Textiles
Sewing and fiber arts have been a part of my life since childhood. Coming from a background in theatrical costuming and bridal alterations, I launched Ulalume Lingerie in 2016, creating undergarments and costumes for burlesque performers. The pandemic put the project into extended hiatus, but I continue to squeeze out a creation here and there! I have also taken up crocheting, creating custom sweaters for my dogs, small garments, and household goods.
Performance
Showgirls, nightclub dancers, vamps, and other “bad girls” have always enchanted me. The neo-burlesque revival found its way into my rural teenage bedroom by dial-up internet service, and I was awed that it was something I could still do in the 21st century. I began my striptease career in 2010, subsequently producing the Ménage à Trois Burlesque and vaudeville revival troupe Carnivalesque. In 2016, Tiger Bay, Porcelain, Fancy Feast, and I formed the Wham Bam Glitter Glam touring show, showcasing the fabulous variety of performance styles within burlesque.
Model
I began modeling when I was 19, inspired by the glamour of vintage pinups. I’ve had the opportunity to work with a variety of photographers and artists, and more recently, have enjoyed staging and posing for my own self-portraits.
