I graduated Magna Cum Laude from Virginia Commonwealth University with a major in Communication Arts and a minor in Crafts and Material Studies in 2017. As a communication artist, my focus is on graphic design and illustration, but I also have experience in photography, concept drawing, broadcast design, and motion design.
I interned with photographer, designer, and university professor Tyler Darden for a semester while attending VCU. While I did assist my mentor on several photo shoots, the internship was focused largely on graphic design. I created designs for both web and print, picking up on the similarities and differences between the two. Working with a professional and observing the way he interacted with his clients was an excellent learning experience.
I also held an internship position at Media General (MGFX) for several months, working three days per week under award-winning creative director Mike Mingroni. MGFX was a broadcasting design agency in Richmond, VA that provided graphics for over 70 news stations nationwide. Here, I gained real-world experience as a designer in a fast-paced environment, creating graphic stills and animations that regularly appeared on television.
After graduation, I spent the summer in Washington, ME working as an instructor at a summer camp for the arts, where I taught drawing, character design, and metalsmithing. This job was more rewarding than I could have imagined; sharing my knowledge with young artists and watching them make things they were proud of was absolutely wonderful. But, this position was obviously temporary, and I returned to Richmond at the end of the summer. Upon my return, I worked as a teaching assistant at my alma mater and as a freelance artist.
Much of my freelance design work has been in the areas of branding and logo design, which I thoroughly enjoy. In addition to graphic design, I draw and paint portraits on commission and continue working as a fine artist and craftswoman in the areas of metalsmithing and jewelry design. You can see my metals portfolio here.
Currently, I am working full time in marketing and administration at Creative Office Environments in Richmond, VA. This position entails a lot of deadline-driven design, video, and illustration work.
I believe in storytelling, attention to detail, and humor. I believe in clean design and beautiful typography. I don't believe in limiting myself to one discipline, medium, or "style," and I am always eager and willing to try something new. I approach each project as a means of communication, and I always have plenty to say.