
Cheri Le Cropane has wanted to be an artist since childhood, when working with her hands and being an artist helped her to feel special. She enjoys creating works that help others to feel special, too. As a child, Cheri began working with natural found objects, collecting driftwood, shells and pebbles, and drying wildflowers from local fields. She used the materials she found to create unique driftwood sculptures.
She has, however, always been drawn to antiques and antique jewelry, being inspired by historical novels, the television show Dark Shadows, and local renaissance faires. Her early metal work reflects this interest with its old filigree look. Her artwork changed direction, however, when she experienced a disabling illness. At that time, she felt her work was too time-consuming, and felt the need to create quicker, more immediate art.
As a result, Cheri came full circle by once again creating found object and mixed media pieces, incorporating her love for antiques, flowers, stitchery, metalworking, and jewelry techniques. Her found object pieces speak of both personal and universal experiences; creating them helped Cheri reclaim her health. She is now driven to create both beautiful and conceptual works of art, and loves to incorporate all the techniques she has learned. Dried flower pods and branches, as well as antique locks, keys, and watches, contribute to Cheri's artistic language. She has also resumed casting both filigree and crystal pieces.