Living in Italy a few years after studying art and art history in college and abroad, Irene became interested in hand painted ceramics and learned the maiolica techniques she had grown to love. Back in the U.S. she began offering hand painted ceramics and tiles. Her success led to the publication of THE CLAY CANVAS and over 30 articles in magazines. She has now updated this essential guide. Based on her series of tiles, Irene illustrated and wrote MY ALPHABET BOOK.