This unique 3D wall art was crafted for the California Audiologist Association Convention in 2024. Made from paper mache, this anatomical representation of the human ear offers a whimsical journey of sound as musical notes travel through the ear canal, pass the eardrum and ear bones, and finally reach the cochlea. The cochlea itself features a rechargeable lighting system with multiple modes, bringing this educational piece to life.
Meet Jay, a vibrant marionette inspired by my son—a smart, funny, and endlessly energetic little boy. Born deaf in both ears and diagnosed with ADHD, Jay’s constant movement and zest for life were the perfect inspiration for this playful creation. Just like my real-life Jay, this marionette is never still—its fluid movements, from winking to walking, truly bring it to life.
Creating this piece for the MyLuckyEars series was a joyful challenge, and watching Jay interact with his miniature counterpart was even more rewarding. This marionette captures the essence of his unstoppable energy and unique personality.
This captivating mixed media wall sculpture tells a heartfelt story of resilience, connection, and advocacy. The piece features a little girl with Microtia, gazing out a window, wearing a bone-anchored hearing aid (BAHA). Sitting delicately atop her hearing device is a whimsical Microtia Elf butterfly, symbolizing hope and transformation.
Originally created to honor Microtia Awareness Day on November 9th, this artwork sheds light on conductive hearing loss often associated with Microtia. Inspired by countless individuals who thrive with BAHA devices, the piece is a tribute to their strength and courage.
The sculpture gained recognition from Melissa Tumblin, founder of the Ear Community Organization, whose mission has supported thousands of individuals with Microtia and Atresia since 2010. When Oticon Medical acquired the piece for their New Jersey office, it was redesigned to reflect Ally, Melissa’s daughter and the foundation’s poster child. The doll’s ear and hearing aid were updated to resemble Ally’s own Ponto Plus, with the Microtia Elf butterfly symbolizing the unique beauty of her journey.
This piece is a testament to the transformative power of advocacy, art, and community, celebrating the beauty and strength of those with hearing differences. Though the sculpture has been sold, its message continues to inspire and connect people worldwide.
A heartfelt mixed media painting that celebrates the resilience, joy, and light embodied by Clara, a little girl whose remarkable journey inspires many. This piece depicts a doll-like Clara, wearing her hearing aids, sitting atop a vibrant sunflower in a vast sunflower field. The sunflower, symbolizing strength, positivity, and unwavering growth, serves as a tribute to Clara’s incredible spirit and her family’s enduring love.
Clara’s story began in Brazil, where she was born prematurely at just 24 weeks, weighing only 465 grams (just over 1 pound). Despite the immense challenges she faced, including surgeries, complications, and a profound deafness diagnosis, Clara has triumphed over adversity. Now 3 years old, she is a bright and joyful child who loves books, music, and spreading sunshine wherever she goes.
This artwork honors Clara’s journey and the hope she brings to countless families of premature babies. It is a powerful reminder of the light within all of us and the miracles that perseverance and love can create.