Can you tell us about your background and how you became interested in design?
I’ve been interested in design ever since I was a youngling. I used to trace Pokémon characters and buy comic books just to look at the layouts and illustrations and figure out how to draw using different methods of perspective.
Skateboarding was (and still is) a huge influence in my life. I started at 12 years old and that’s when I became more interested in graphic design in the layout of magazines, videography, photography, and artwork on skate decks. The artwork led me to discover some of my favorite artists to this date, like Michael Sieben, French Fred, and Don Pendleton.
Music has been a huge influence as well. I started my design career right after high school creating posters and print materials for local Chicago bands. This helped me understand how to independently work for clients and build confidence in sharing my work leading up to my move to the Pacific Northwest, where I started working in the tech industry.
What sources of inspiration fuel your creativity in the field of design?
To seek inspiration I’m often browsing through Dribbble and Awwwards to keep up with the latest trends in visual design. But most of all, I am inspired by all things Nordic / Scandinavian. Designs that are bold with clean lines, restrained color palettes, and uncluttered visuals that effectively and simply convey a message or story with simplicity and elegance. I often find inspiration in architecture and interiors as well.