"Artist's" Statement

The term "artist" has always seemed a little too lofty and serious for me. Looking at my work, it is pretty clear that I'm not out to expose social issues, critique previous artistic movements, or advance a specific ideology through my work. I guess I just don't take myself too seriously, a fact that I think my work reflects. That's not to say that I don't take my work seriously, though-- but I don't think that taking work seriously and having fun are mutually exclusive in the least. 

It is through the process of having fun with my work that I realize how little I've departed from my childhood self, for I feel like I frequently tap into the imagination I exercised every day when my bed became a secret fort and my dolls chatted with each other after school. This childlike, playful quality manifests itself in every stage of my creative process. Therefore, while it may not necessarily gain critical attention or ever be acknowledged on the basis of formal excellence, I design with a different purpose in mind. I seek to entertain, a purpose that is not always associated with graphic design unless it is applied to another medium, such as film. I like to layer my work so that there is a story, something to "figure out."

Therefore, I take a very concept-driven approach to my work, letting my idea give purpose to every element that is ultimately incorporated into the final product. And, as far as that idea is concerned, I say the wittier, the better. For me, the best part of a design project is its conception. Some are intimidated by the ominous "blank sheet of paper," but, for me, there is nothing like that first phase of the design process where anything is possible. I love the process where my mind whirls through ideas, never knowing when "the one" will strike, what will inspire it, or where it will take me. 

I approach each design challenge as a new opportunity to come up with the most creative visual solution for whatever is before me. I like to think of ways of approaching a subject that other people might not think of, which usually ends up being a reflection of my sense of humor and my soft spot for wordplay. I guess it's my background in storytelling and creative problem solving, but, if one of my designs leaves someone with a smile on their face and a moment of "ahh I get it!" then I've accomplished my goal.