Q: Tell us a bit about who you are, where you grew up, and your background as an illustrator:
A: I am from Smyth Co. Va. I have a drive to create that can’t be ignored, and draw a lot of my inspiration from love, silliness, and nostalgia. I studied fine art, but I did not start illustration until 2020. I received a grant from Alternate Roots and was able to invest in equipment. My style naturally just meshed with the digital platform. It felt really natural, and there is so much for me to learn. I have been making since early childhood and never really slowed down.
Q: How has Appalachia inspired your work and what is your favorite part about living here:
A: Appalachia inspires my work constantly. I am proud to be from this region, and I love to make work that reflects our beautiful culture. I am heavily influenced by my surroundings. I have moved out of the region, and those times also affected my work, but I have spent most of my life in some part of the Blue Ridge.
Q: When did you begin to focus on artwork as a career?
A: I studied fine art at VHCC and ETSU. I have always wanted to pursue a career in this field. It took me a couple years out of college to start making art for myself. It was difficult to switch out of the academic art mindset and go exploring on my own. I started doing pop ups, selling my work and even curating some shows. I have had so much support from my loved ones, and a great response from the community. I have been a full time studio artist for almost two years now.
Q: What is a typical day for you like in the studio?
A: Time works a little differently in studio life. I work a lot of hours per week, but I have time to also be human, have emotions, and take care of myself. I make sure to give myself mandatory days off, to help with creativity. A typical day starts with a pour over, tarot, and then easing into email, before I continue work on the project at hand. I take lots of breaks with my dog George.
