I am a 1998 graduate of the Savannah College of Art and Design with a degree in comics, though my desire to pursue illustration began much earlier when my Kindergarten teacher told my parents I had a knack. Following many years of living in various places around the US, I returned to my home state of Michigan and I’ve most recently taken up residence in Grand Rapids, where I divide my time between Illustration, social justice, sustainable living, and riding my bicycle as much as I can.
I’m a storyteller by nature, and I see illustration as a form of communication that can trigger a response without the need for words; it allows the viewer to bring their own experience to the conversation without the limitation found in a specific verbal or written language. Instead, a new language based on emotion is created and deeper meaning is felt. Through illustration, complex and often difficult-to-process ideas and conversations can be made accessible, and seemingly simple ideas and strokes of the pen can have intention that exceeds what was initially perceived. It’s the challenge of positively adding to the conversation that keeps me motivated to continue to tell stories through illustrations, and the tools and topics I engage help me to find and shape my voice.
Over the years I’ve worked with authors, theatre companies, and individuals. I’ve exhibited in both solo and group shows and accept commissions, and in 2022 I published my first full length graphic novel, Z Class: The Beginning. I’m always interested in finding new people to collaborate with who desire to keep the conversation going and are open to the opportunity to exceed the commonplace… let’s tell a new story together.
