Artist Statement

"My artistic journey is a deliberate endeavor to unearth and celebrate the obscured narratives of American sub-cultures, employing multimedia illustration as a means to weave these forgotten stories into the collective consciousness. Through diverse mediums—illustration, painting, photography, digital art, and performance elements—I aim to shed light on these hidden gems and integrate them into the multifaceted mosaic of American identity.

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Growing up, my fascination with the tales of sub-cultures weathered by time and overshadowed by mainstream forces propelled my exploration. This intentional diversity in my artistic expression reflects the multifaceted nature of the stories I seek to tell. Deep research, involving historical records, oral traditions, and personal narratives, informs each stroke, click, or line, ensuring an authentic portrayal rooted in the nuances that define these communities.

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As a child I copied the art of film and videogames from my parent's large projection TV, often tracing using different lights directly over the screen with the paper.  I loved movies and their transformative magic, and being diagnosed with Type One Diabetes at age 8 in 1991 meant many sick days indoors.  

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Once I entered high school I quickly picked up the traditional art concepts from the old great masters, and developed my technical skills further.  In college I explored American history and technology along with the emerging digital arts.

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In 2022 I became blind due to long-term complications with Type One Diabetes and underwent extensive surgeries to restore some of my vision.  Ironically, I couldn't see until I became blind.  

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Central to my work is a commitment to social justice, using art to spotlight the stories of forgotten sub-cultures and provoke reflection on systemic inequalities. The resilient community of mid-century America, particularly during the Great Migration era, profoundly influences my work. Through multimedia illustrations, I strive to capture the spirit of this transformative journey—honoring the courage and resilience of those who undertook it.

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Beyond historical narratives, my art delves into contemporary sub-cultures at risk of being overshadowed, such as vanishing rural traditions or the stories of immigrants forging new identities. The multimedia nature of my illustrations allows for experimentation with form, ensuring each piece engages viewers on multiple levels. The fusion of traditional and digital techniques creates a visual language that is both timeless and contemporary, inviting audiences to explore the intersections of past and present.

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My artistic process is inherently collaborative, drawing inspiration directly from the communities I seek to represent. Engaging with individuals from these sub-cultures fosters an inclusive dialogue, enriching the authenticity of my work and instilling a sense of shared ownership.

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My artistic journey epitomizes the power of multimedia illustration to resurrect forgotten American sub-cultures, spanning mid-century eras to present day. Through historical research, social advocacy, and collaborative storytelling, I aim to create a visual tapestry that honors the past and prompts a reevaluation of the present. Bringing marginalized narratives to the forefront, I hope to inspire a greater appreciation for the diversity that defines the American experience—a reminder that our collective identity is a mosaic woven from myriad threads of forgotten stories."