my philosophy
I believe drawing isn't about replicating what an object looks like; rather, it is deciding what you want to communicate about an object, and then drawing that. When I draw, I strive to create lovable characters, and images that evoke feeling. I am especially inspired by nature, petroglyphs, pop-art, fairytales, and mythology. When I write for children, I develop characters that are complex, yet endearing, and I choose themes that appeal to young readers without being condescending. I never let my 'style' limit my creativity; instead, I approach each project with its own potential and each character with its own personality.
my story
I attended Kent State University, where I majored in Graphic Design and minored in Jewelry/Metals. After graduating, I lived in Los Angeles and worked as an assistant for acclaimed author/illustrator Gerald McDermott as well as freelancing for a variety of companies. During this time, my children's book The Ambitious Baker's Batter was published. My greeting cards, fabric, giftware, and baby products have been sold nationwide. Currently, I'm designing bracelets that have themes, illustrating a deck of tarot cards, and writing a series of chapter books for tweens.
Thank you!
