About me
When I was in Kindergarten, my mother received an envelope from my teacher. Enclosed was a batch of drawings I had created. They were full of highly animated dogs and cats jumping and playing amongst trees and bushes. While she was very complimentary of the artwork, my teacher and I knew a secret she held back from my mom. I made all of that artwork during math class. The course of my life has not wavered. I draw things, and I don't do math. Welcome to my life.
Education and Experience
2001
Bachelors of Fine Art
Concentration in Graphic Design
Auburn University, Alabama
In 2001, I graduated from Auburn University with a BFA / Concentration in Graphic Design. War Eagle! While the majority of my time at Auburn was spent working on painting, drawing and computers, I also discovered a love for pottery and clay sculpting.
Today, I have a throw wheel and kiln in my back carport. When I am not Illustrating and writing, I am playing in the mud.
2005 - 2013
WORK: Freelance Designer and Small Business Owner
Specialty: Invitation Illustration
After college, I briefly worked in various graphic design jobs, but my real passion was geared more towards Illustrating rather than layout. I opened my own business designing and selling invitations.
2022
Children's Book Publication
Author and Illustrator
In 2022, I Illustrated, wrote and self published my first children's book called JOLLY THE GINGER CHICKEN. Jolly is a real chicken that lives at SweetCreek Farm Market in Pike Road, Alabama.
My Artwork
-My artwork is whimsical, colorful and maybe sometimes silly.
-My preferred medium is watercolor.
-I like painting animals, fairy tale type landscapes, wonky buildings, food and people.
-My artwork is geared towards reaching children. I like to make my illustrations fun with a lot of movement in the brush. I can use strong line, or shy away from it. That would depend on the look the client wants. Color is important to me. It captures the mood of the scene.
-Once I paint an image that I am happy with, I scan it into the computer and edit with Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator. While I love these programs, I usually let the artwork stand on its own without too much digital interference. The finished work will have a more traditional feel.
-For book layout, I prefer InDesign.
-I have worked with clients for years in discussing designs that appeal to them. I do not shy away from hearing the author's input and what their "mind's eye" sees. I can be very chatty.