Frequently Asked Questions

Which materials do you use?

I work primarily in watercolor and gouache on Arches 300 lb hot press watercolor paper. I also like to experiment with painting on other surfaces like bark, cork, and wallpaper. My favorite brands of paint are Winsor & Newton, M. Graham, and Daniel Smith. I like to draw with mechanical pencils, especially the Alvin Draft-Matic pencils.

Did you go to art school?

Not at first. I studied geology in college but art kept tugging at me. So I decided to combine my love of art and science and went through a one-year scientific illustration program at UC Santa Cruz (the program has since moved to Cal State Monterey). This program was great for giving me a foundation in illustration - how to use various media, observational drawing, field sketching, and composition. I then later completed a Master’s Degree in architecture, which helped me become a better designer and critic of my own work.

How did you get started?

I've always loved to draw, but it took me a long time to figure out that I wanted to be an illustrator. I started by doing my own drawings and showing them to a few people who encouraged me to do more. I took on small projects for local non-profits, family, and friends. I slowly built up my portfolio. I decided to go to school for science illustration. I did an internship. I printed cards with my work and gave them to people. I did more paintings. I started selling cards. I got more and larger commissions. I printed more cards and reproductions. And here we are.

Most of your illustrations have a science theme. Do you think it's necessary to have a science background to do these types of paintings?

Necessary, no. Helpful, yes. I've taken classes in geology, biology, and botany and I do use this information when working. Having a basic knowledge in these fields makes my work go more quickly. I also have a small library of field guides and textbooks that I go to when I have questions. And I’m not afraid to reach out to scientists when I need clarification or have a more technical question. I also spend a lot of time outside hiking, sketching, and observing, which I find invaluable. 

Where do you get ideas for your personal work?

Most of my inspiration comes from wandering around outside or reading scientific books and articles. Or from listening to podcasts. Something will spark my interest and I'll decide to do more research.

How do you start a painting?

Most of my paintings start as rough sketches either in pencil and/or watercolor. I then like to work in layers of tracing paper over the top of my initial sketch to refine ideas and compositions. I sometimes scan my initial sketches to play with ideas digitally. Once I have a composition that I’m happy with, I’ll make a finished drawing on tracing paper, which I use to transfer the image to the watercolor paper in stages.

Do you use the computer much?

I am an illustrator who still prefers to work by hand. I rarely complete digital illustrations since I like the feel of pencil, paint, and paper best. That said, I am on the computer a lot. Most of my work is printed digitally, so I sometimes scan and color balance finished paintings (sometimes I outsource this process). I also use the computer to quickly mock-up different layout possibilities. Running my own business means that I use the computer for a lot of non-design related tasks like emails, budgets, and website updates.

How long does it take you to finish a painting?

It depends on the amount of research, and the size and complexity of the painting. And my level of interest at the time. Sometimes I'll start a painting and finish it in a few days. Other times I'll make an initial sketch of a painting and not go back and work on it for months or even years. On average, the larger paintings take 30-40 hours to complete from start to finish.

Do you teach classes?

I teach at Lane Community College (LCC) and my classes are open to any enrolled student. 

How do you print your cards and reproductions?

All of my final artwork is scanned and/or photographed at high resolution. I design all of the layouts for my cards and reproductions. Some of the cards are professionally printed and others I print (and cut and fold) myself. The reproductions are all professionally printed.

Do you accept commissioned work?

I very rarely take on commissioned work since my schedule is pretty tight between teaching and completing my own work. If, however, you’re interested in commissioned work, send me an email telling me a bit about your project.   

Can I use one of your images?

Without my permission? Absolutely not. With my permission? Maybe. It depends on what you're using it for. Drop me a line explaining which image you'd like to use and why. I will respond with an answer.

Will you look at my portfolio? 

You are welcome to email me your portfolio. I will do my best to provide feedback, however, depending on my workload at the time I cannot promise a thorough review.