Frequently Asked Questions
Process & Materials
Which medium do you work in?
I am a mixed media artist. I create detailed pencil drawings and paint both digitally and traditionally (sometimes both for the same piece!) I paint mostly with acrylic these days, but I also work with oils and occassionally watercolor.
What are your favorite tools/brands?
I love Golden acrylics! Their customer service is excellent too. For oils, I like Gamblin. For pencils, I use Prismacolor ColErase, Faber Castell Polychromos, and Blackwing. My digital tools of choice are Wacom tablets with Adobe Photoshop and iPad with Procreate. And aside from the humble pencil, my favorite tool is my mechanical eraser.
What is your process when creating a new piece?
I always start with thumbnails. As many as it takes to figure out the composition I want, whether it be one thumbnail or a couple pages full. Then, I'll do a combination of pencil sketches and digital color comps. From there, I take reference photos and create a detailed pencil drawing. Then, it's onto the painting!
How long does it take you to complete a painting?
It depends on many factors. Usually anywhere from 20-40 active hours, depending on size and complexity.
Career
How/when did you know you wanted to be an artist?
The summer before my senior year of high school, I received a brochure in the mail for a 4-week program at an art college (which I attended) where I learned that art schools (and careers) were a real thing! As soon as I realized the possibilities, I knew a career in the arts was for me. The direction of my life was forever changed.
How long have you been making art?
Since as long as I could finger paint and hold a crayon. But, professionally, I consider 2014 to be when I started my career.
Did you go to art school?
Yes, I attended Moore College of Art & Design in Philadelphia, where I graduated in 2014 with a BFA in illustration.
How do I build a career as an artist/illustrator?
In the simplest nutshell possible: create art, share your art with the world (and potential clients), connect with your peers, and repeat continuously. Rinse, wash, repeat. Of course, there is more to it than that, but this (and most importantly, the artwork you create) is the foundation upon which careers are built.
Shop Orders & Shipping
When will my order ship?
Orders usually ship within two weeks. An email with tracking information is then sent out.
How are orders packed?
Each order is packed and fulfilled by me. Prints are packed in protective plastic sleeves and secured with tape with 1-2 sheets of cardboard inside a rigid mailer. Multiple "Do Not Bend" stickers are added on the mailer for that extra reminder to the carrier.
Do you ship internationally/outside of the US?
Currently, my online shop is not set up for international shipping. If you live outside of the US and would like to place an order, please send me an email and I will see what can be arranged.