For me, paper is remarkable. When you fold a crease into a sheet of paper it ‘remembers’ what you’ve asked it to do, yet is flexible enough to be unfold and lay flat again. Paper is also underestimated - many see paper as flimsy, but if you stack a hundred sheets together it becomes as heavy as a brick. And when used just right, paper invites you to play or step into new worlds.

I first got involved with paper by taking a class at art school called Paper-Engineering. It sounded like fun and apparently I was a natural. One of my figure drawing teachers said it was probably because I am overly analytical. I want clear rules and yes/no answers for things but he said, at some point, art is about just ‘feeling it’. However, when it comes to paper art the physical engineering is just as important as the artistic illustration. So when I work with paper something clicks! I think it’s due to the actual physical rules of working with paper which helps me better understand shape, design, color, basically everything. After I left school, I was trying to synthesize the skills I used in illustration with my love of pop-ups which lead me to layered paper illustrations.

One of my art professors once said, “Style isn’t something you create. Style is something you arrive at.” Personally, I’m not sure I’ve found my ‘style’. I found my favorite medium to work in, but I’m not sure I could even describe my style. Plus I believe, style is something that is ever evolving as you take in new life experiences. Rather than spend time finding or developing your ‘style’, I recommend repurposing your time to develop your “voice”. What is your unique point of view as an artist? All the influences you have in life will eventually lead you to a style on its own.

Ideas and inspiration can come from anywhere! But I often get the most inspiration when given some perimeters. I find it easier to think outside the box, once you’re given a box! If you aren’t being given perimeters to follow then sometimes making a piece of artwork with a specific person or event in mind is helpful, such as a piece of art for a friend’s birthday. Knowing what that friend likes may help inspire the subject matter, color palette, etc.

Yes! I’m starting to share my tips and tricks on my site and Instagram. I also sometimes teach in person, mostly corporate workshops. Once in a while, I’ll teach a workshop that’s available for public enrollment. Please check my EVENTS page for any upcoming public workshops.