For many years I was fascinated by the art of creating jewelry from wire. In 2013 my husband surprised me with a trip to Fairhope, AL, for our anniversary. It just happened to coincide with Fairhope’s annual Arts and Crafts Show. Of course there were wire wrap artists there and, of course, I came home with two new bracelets. For weeks I studied each one and eventually became determined to learn to replicate those bracelets. I quietly acquired some inexpensive tools and craft wire and thus, started what would evolve into LadyWIRE Jewelry.

It was a long journey because I tutored myself for four years. At one point I became so frustrated I threw the mangled wire onto the table and declared it just wasn’t for me! My husband assured me that it was ok if I didn’t want to pursue wire wrap. Actually, I think he had wondered all along why I wanted to work with wire! Anyway, the next morning I picked up my wire project again and have never looked back. Somehow, in my sleep, I must have figured out that I had to stop fighting the wire and work with it instead. I continued to be self-taught until 2017, when I took classes with Sue West, a wire artist in Biloxi. It was at this time that I transitioned from craft wire to working with 14kgf wire and Sterling Silver wire.

Being invited to become part of the Gulfport Gallery of Fine Art was a tremendous honor. My work is also in Robin’s Nest in the Pass and in Antique Maison in Bay St. Louis. It is my goal is to continue to grow and improve my skills in wire wrap and in wire weaving. Creating something that others appreciate is what energizes me to continue working with wire. Working at my bench is now relaxing and rewarding as I watching wire transformed into wearable art. I am fortunate to have a husband who understands my need to create and supports and encourages me. And, we are both blessed to have the love and devotion of Lady Fiona, our miniature Aussiedoodle.

I am a retired registered nurse with certifications in Legal Nurse Consulting, Life Care Planning and, Elder Care Management. In 2012 my husband, Charles Dessommes, and I retired and relocated from Lake Charles, LA, to the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Being empty nesters, we enjoy the quiet lifestyle afforded by Long Beach as well as all the many festivals of the Mississippi Gulf Coast.