Family and friends know how important the island of Fogo has become to me.

I’ve been twice in the past two years, and each time I’ve left, I’ve left with more than I came. Rocks, seashells, and random bits of rope. Three quilts, a pair of mittens, and a couple of clay pieces that I made. And a group of friends who have become family.

Collection 26.02 is my attempt as a come-from-away to capture Fogo’s warmth and humanity as well as its unforgiving edges. A small gesture of my appreciation for this otherworldly place, its people, and the found family I have shared it with.