Why I Create

In this busy life, it is all too easy to casually observe our world without much thought to the brilliant design that surrounds us. My desire is to bring that often-unnoticed design to the surface. I believe that a natural love for beauty is built into each of us, if we slow down for a moment to appreciate it. I also believe that creativity is one of humanity’s greatest blessings — and responsibilities. So, I strive to take note of any beauty found throughout life, and to create the art it inspires in unique and memorable ways.

My primary theme is that of “coming to life,” and this theme applies itself in different ways depending on the work. I specialize in wildlife art, producing a variety of art featuring different species of animals and focusing on what makes each creature special, at least to me. The driving passion in my work is the inspiration and exploration of unique perspective, sometimes visual, but more importantly conceptual. With this comes the need to often experiment with unconventional compositions or mixed media techniques in order to bring out the most exciting qualities of the subject, or to create a certain symbolic meaning. I want to grab the attention of my viewers, show them a small piece of the world or a moment in time that perhaps they have never seen from a certain point of view, and leave them in wonder about the intricacy and profoundness of this life. I don’t just want to bounce pretty pictures off your eyes; I want to reach inside and ignite the soul. Regardless of how successful I am at truly achieving these goals, I hope you will enjoy my work.

History / Education

I grew up in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where I enjoyed spending much of my time alone outdoors, exploring creation. I learned at a very young age that the best possessions are those one creates or earns; so, inspired by nature and the drawings of one of my oldest brothers, I found that the most fulfilling way to spend my time was to draw and build things myself. My curiosity about art and nature grew with me, and I realized that I wanted to spend my life learning more about the amazing world around me.

As a young adult, I moved to Florida to attend college, where I studied under master painter Brian Jekel, sculptor Joseph Digangi, designer Shawn Thayer, and other master artists, each playing an important part in teaching me how to refine my technical and communicative art skills. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in visual arts, I decided to take my education a step further and later received a Master of Fine Arts degree in studio art and illustration. Since then, I have illustrated several science textbooks, produced independent artwork for many private collectors, and my art has won a variety of academic and public awards.