in-tar-si-a (in tar' zee uh), noun: a mosaic of wood fitted and glued into a wooden support, popular in 15th century Italy for decoration; also: the art or process of making such work.

In April 2003, Debra began studying intarsia with Judy Gale Roberts and Jerry Booher at their studio in Sevierville, TN. "It is an honor and privilege to study with real masters," Debra says. Although her goal is to eventually create intarsia based on her own original patterns, Debra proudly creates projects based on Judy's patterns, using techniques influenced by Judy and Jerry.

The following projects are made from various shades of western red cedar and aspen. The wood mosaics have been sanded to create a third dimension, increasing the relief and a sense of reality.