Overview
Education
I began my college education as a fine art major, then over time I recognized that I also had an affinity for visual communication, and I expanded my focus to include illustration and graphic design in my education.
Career
In 1986 as a new designer/illustrator I got some prophetic advice from a mentor that set my career in a direction I would follow over the next 25 years. He declared, “If you aren’t converting your traditional design skills to a digital toolbox, in 10 years you won’t be working, and if you do it now you will be far ahead of the curve.” I bought a state-of-the-art graphics computer system and never looked back. He was right, and I spent the next 15 years pushing the edge of technology for creation and communication with the emergence and growth of the internet. It was a period of intense growth personally and professionally. After helping to grow a digitally-focused Advertising Agency from 3 to 24 employees, I decided to pursue an independent path that would use my skills and offer a sustainable work/life balance.
The last 20+ years I have worked with many entrepreneurs, helping establish their brands and marketing. Additionally, I’ve worked 15+ years as a contract team member for Amri Studios, an award-winning group that creates large-scale installations for donor recognition in healthcare, religious institutions and myriad industries. It has been wonderful to contribute to a team effort that is engaging and worthy work.
I have come full circle and am painting again. Years of life experience enhances the study of figurative and portrait work. I’ve recently had one of my paintings juried in to an International Portrait Competition. I hope to expand this part of my work professionally.