Born into a family of artists–her father was a writer, her mother a world-renowned sculptor and brother a musician–the arts were in Cristi's blood from the start. Dancing from the age of four, it was in high school she discovered her love for photography and as a young teenager dreamt of pursuing a life as an artist.

In October 2006 Cristi happened upon a very rare and unique opportunity when she stopped by the gallery of George Stastny, not 10 miles from her home, where she met George personally for the first time. Intrigued by his unique art form and the fact that he was retiring and selling his gallery, Cristi walked away that day with the idea of purchasing his gallery and taking him up on his offer to apprentice her and her husband, if he deemed them capable and talented enough to be apprenticed.

With Joe's dream of being a sculptor and Cristi's dream to pursue the arts as a career alongside him, she knew this was an opportunity to not only make their dreams come true but to carry on the unique art form George had created and perfected over the previous 26 years, which otherwise might possibly have faded away along with his retirement.

With the deal sealed after dozens of discussions as well as a trial apprenticeship, where their artistic as well as physical abilities were proven beyond a doubt, the business and gallery were purchased by Joe and Cristi in February 2007. Now, with over a year under their belts learning the craft under George's direction and hands-on supervision, the apprenticeship has proven successful. The pieces being created today are of the utmost quality and workmanship, following closely all of George's precise techniques. "Now having the expertise in creating these unique pieces, I look forward to introducing my own designs to our vast collection in the very near future."

Cristi's passion for design and the creation of aesthetic environments have at their most basic root a sincere desire to help others live more beautiful lives. "I truly believe this is the role of any artist, no matter his medium. By helping to make people's personal environments more aesthetic and peaceful, with the creation of these one-of-a-kind pieces, I hope to achieve at least a contribution to this goal."