I work best when given a problem to solve and a project to complete within a deadline. This realization and the desire to communicate directly have led me to the field of graphic design. The commercial nature of graphic design dictates artwork that conveys messages through the use of symbols, communicating to viewers exactly what they need to know without being metaphorical.

Because my artwork is primarily client-based and not generally a reflection of my personal experiences, I’ve struggled to define my artistic style. However, a few things remain consistent from one project to another. My design work is characterized by bold shapes, a lack of detail and the layering of objects.  I am inspired by Lucian Bernhard’s object posters and his use of the basic elements of line, shape, value and color to create simple, but expressive compositions. However, unlike Bernhard, I avoid placing my subject in the center of the page. My images have a tendency to move off the edges of the composition rather than remaining within those boundaries. When text is included in a design, it should be a strong part of the overall image.  For this reason, I often create my own fonts or alter pre-existing ones so that they fit the style of the piece.

Although I appreciate the process that goes into the creation of art, I am usually more focused on the finished product. I like the ways in which the computer allows me to alter my designs with the click of a button. This medium allows me allows me to almost instantly create crisp, sharp lines and neat, solid shapes. In order to counteract the lifeless, mechanical look sometimes found when using this medium, I often use textures in my designs that mimic those created with more traditional media, such as charcoal or watercolor.

As I pursue a career in the design field, I plan not to limit myself to one type of design. I want to go wherever God leads me, constantly challenging myself to work on a variety of different projects, from corporate identity to packaging or posters, continually learning more about myself and defining my style as it relates to the realms of fine art and commercialism.