I was born and raised in Pennsylvania, where my love for art began by recreating my favorite cartoons and throwing myself in newspaper comics like Calvin and Hobbes. I was especially drawn to early animation and storytelling, which was formative in shaping my creative voice. With the encouragement of my parents, I continued to develop my skills, finding a passion for realism while still adding a sense of fantasy inspired by books, television, and film.
Although I didn’t begin college until I was 30, art was always a constant in my life. I worked on it as a hobby and freelancing for years, building my skills until I was able to pursue formal education. After moving to Michigan, I earned my associate degree in art, but the COVID-19 pandemic delayed my transfer to a bachelor’s program.
Now, after relocating to Washington, I am one year away from earning my BFA. This journey has been long and unconventional, but it reflects the belief in myself to do something I truly love.