bio
I am a designer and creative. Photographer and writer. Mentor and student. Musician and critic. Academic and practitioner.
I strive to find holistic and informed answers for any problem I encounter. I enjoy the challenge of designing a lasting solution. I believe the role of designer stretches far beyond pixels on a screen or ink on paper. I believe in creating with awareness and social responsibility. I believe in putting in the fight and the effort.
I am humbled and honored to donate my time and efforts in support of the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust — an organization dedicated to the protection and preservation of Africa's wilderness and its denizens, particularly endangered species such as elephants and the Black Rhino.
educator
I have a Master's in Graphic Design from NC State University and a BFA in Graphic Design from the Savannah College of Art + Design. I have taught design and typography at the Chicago Portfolio School and Columbia College of Art, as well as lectured on design theory and practice at Carnegie Melon, University of Cincinnatti DAAP, UW Milwaukee and NC State. My thesis study focused on The Spatial Navigation of Digital Information Environments.
view thesis study »interests
In addition to admittedly being a design-nerd, my interests extend beyond pixels and pencils to include soccer, snowboarding, baseball/softball, wakeboarding, biking (road and trail), music (live or on vinyl), film, photography, architecture + theatre, and pretty much any activity in the woods or the waves. As an avid cook and former sous chef, one of my greatest pleasures is working and creating in the kitchen, preferably with a bourbon in hand.
In 2011, I co-founded a indie-rock band called GreyShores, which released its first album in 2012 under GunPoint Records in Chicago.
In the spring of 2013, I had the great honor of playing the blues at Buddy Guy's Legends Blues Bar in Chicago.