This type specimen book is dedicated to Milton Glaser, featuring his 2006 address to the AIGA. In it, Glaser criticized the increasing “sameness” that seems to plague the modern design world. As a fellow illustrator, and designer I felt an immediate connection with this sentiment.

Growing up after the “technological revolution”, I greatly understand the frustration behind seeming to blend in with the crowd. But Glaser’s point was this: as artists, we need to be willing to stand out. In fact, that attention makes us better.

That’s the principle behind “A World of Color”. By combining Glaser’s words and my illustrations, I hoped to bring viewers out of their comfort zones, and force them to view the familiar in a new light. Because Glaser frequently references history and art, I “defaced” several famous works and faces in an attempt to reinvent their meaning.

Because times are ALWAYS changing, right?

As the sibling of an avid dancer, I’m often struck by the physical scrutiny dancers face in their industry. Being non-graceful myself, I was easily impressed by ballerinas. As always, the more I dug, the more fascinating the industry became.

While some standards—like the desire for long lines—seem reasonable, others—like head size and shape—are much more obscure. With that in mind, I created an awareness campaign for the athletic community highlighting the pros and cons of the dance field. While the campaign is meant to criticize the industry, it is also seeks to gain respect for dancers as hardworking, applied athletes.

Afterall, have you seen what pointe does to your toes?

As someone who grew up watching Mr. Rodgers and crafting with Mom, I relish the opportunity to work with my hands. More than anything, Illustration and painting are my first loves. Which is why when the chance to take Bookmaking in college came along, I didn't hesitate.

I learned how to make my own paper, bind my own books, and even create boxes for anything I could think of. The result? Several projects I am incredibly proud of and will cherish always. That, and the knowledge of how to make any journal my heart desires for as long as I live. And I have to say, it was totally worth it. So long Barnes and Noble! (She said hopefully)…

Growing up, there was a secret spot we called our “canvas” just under the left leg of our antique kitchen table. It was started by my mom when she was a child, and merged with our own scribblings as we grew. With three children, you can imagine the state of that table!

Twenty some years later, everyone in my family still has this habit of doodling all over everything. It's how we think. It’s how we communicate. So, naturally, I also have dozens of folders filled with work that depict both the real and the imaginary. After all, can't we as artists have both? From pet portraits to characters and seasonal doodles, my collection boarders on the infinite.