I explore the interface between art and science - aesthetically and philosophically - in photography, intaglio and related print media and in artist books from traditional bindings to sculptural books.

As a book artist and mixed-media artist I have highlighted the incredible micro-architecture of the biological world, the shapes, textures and patterns that evoke awe and emotions in a metaphysical plane above their inherent scientific content. I hope my books evoke emotions, inquiry, wonderment and reawaken an appreciation of nature’s wonders, and our inner being. In representing science and nature in books I try to incorporate natural materials into structure and thematic content. I am passionate about the hidden beauty inherent in the “microscopic” world and the impressive potential afforded by “the book” as an art form.

One long standing fascination has been exploring the incredible imagery of the microscopic world. As Victor Hugo once said “Which gives a grander view – the microscope or the telescope?” For me it’s the microscope! Having knowledge of the many facets of optics, tissue and material properties, an entire new artists’ palette has emerged for me. Using the microscope as “an artists brush” and the slides and imaging as a canvas, it has been, and continues to be, a wondrous journey of excitement and imagination.

One focus of exploring microcosms has been highlighting the beauty and intriguing structures in microscopic worlds that are hidden from the naked eye. The imagery depends on interactions of natural materials with light, electrons, and one’s imagination. Some of my books illustrate “micro-landscapes” and explorations of textures, colors, incredible micro-architecture of living organisms and patterns within patterns. Another creative exploration has been the use of innovative materials in book design and structure, such as using actual microscopes, egg shells, various skins and more recently glass. Two pieces, Integument 1 and 2, use glass in an innovative book structure reflective of the fragility of life and the many spectacular properties of skin (the integument) as a critical barrier between the living and non-living environments.

Career wise, I grew up in Alberta in a family of artists and have for many years resided in Winnipeg, Canada professionally engaged as a scientist at the University of Manitoba. Throughout my scientific career, and parallel with my science cell biological interests, I have pursued artistic interests continually nurturing an interest and gaining expertise in the visual arts. As a professor at the University of Manitoba, I have been engaged in research and teaching cell and developmental biology. My research has focused on the cell biology of the most supreme of stem cells - the egg cell. This single cell is endowed with the blueprint of life and the cellular machinery to develop into a complete organism once the choreography of development is activated. Some of my books have used the egg thematically and sculpturally, reflecting the wonderment of development. I explore a variety of themes in my book, with a variety of book structures - from traditional to unique sculptural formats - using various media, including glass.

I not only continue to participate in a variety of activities involving the book arts, printmaking and photography, but, as Artist-in-Residence at the University of Manitoba (2017–2021), I am actively engaged in mentoring, creative dialogue, lectures and workshops revolving around science, art and the book arts. The cross-pollination of science, art and imagination has led to my installing a microscopy imaging lab/studio within the School of Art… which, I believe to be a first in Canada.