artist statement

My artwork is centered around semiotics and the recontextualization of universal iconography, often within repeat structures printed on fabric. Within this context are themes of convergence, abundance, generosity and sacrifice. Some of these narrative/associative themes are sociopolitical, others are personal, but the contemporary iconography used to illustrate these themes is intended to either enhance or subvert the historical implications of the fabric on which it is printed.

Much of my work is based around elementary shapes and patterns that, in many ways, seem so familiar even when they are not. I believe such things have a more powerful effect on viewers because we have learned to recognize the importance of - and connection to - visual simplicity. When we were small, complex ideas were always reduced to their very basic forms in order for us to recognize and familiarize ourselves with our environment and those with whom we would interact. I utilize these simplified, universal symbols because of their unique balance of specificity and generality. Each assemblage is an interaction of both amity and conflict, created to allow different meanings, associations, and experiences to be ascribed by those who encounter it.

biography

Artist, musician and designer, specializing in graphic,
web, surface and textile design.
Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas.
Currently lives and works in Chicago.

09.2005 - 05.2007
The School of the Art Institute of Chicago | Chicago, Illinois
Master of Fine Arts : Studio Art : Visual Communication

01.2001 - 12.2004
University of the Incarnate Word | San Antonio, Texas
Bachelor of Arts : Computer Graphic Arts magna cum laude
concentration graphic design
minor sociology


work

previous projects and undertakings have encompassed:

• branding and identity design


• development of collateral including identity systems, invitations, direct mail, promocards, promotional apparel, concert ephemera, greeting cards and calendars


• retail packaging and indoor/outdoor signage


• layout, typesetting and typography {digital and hand-rendered}


• nationally-circulated magazine advertisements


• websites and user interface enhancements {HTML and Flash}


• design of e-blasts, resulting in improved viewership and delivery rates (up to 80%); executing multiple marketing initiatives (including viral-based strategies and targeting regional markets)


• photography and photo styling


• album cover research and concept development


• photographic retouching, compositing and digital manipulation


• artistic commissions and collaborations


• pattern design for paper, textile and other surface applications


• illustration

• Blue Star Contemporary Art Center
• Christo and Jeanne-Claude
• Daniel Bedingfield
• Enya
• The Ordinary Boys
• Prism LCD
• Realisation (UK)
• Steve Quick Jeweler
• Target
• The Found
• Wilton Products, Inc.

proficient in Mac and Windows operating systems.

proficient in the following programs and programming languages:

• Adobe Creative Suite and Acrobat
• QuarkXPress
• Microsoft Office
• font management programs (e.g., Adobe Type Manager, Extensis Suitcase)
• HTML and CSS
• working knowledge of ActionScript

extensive experience in :

• copywriting
• product photography
• photo styling
• post-production digital manipulation and retouching
• pattern design and creation
• screenprinting
• creation of large-scale artwork through digital and silkscreen processes on paper, textiles and alternative substrates

extensive study in :

• narrative architecture
• public art installation
• sociology
• design and media theory

knowledge of pre-press and print production.

knowledge of conversational French, Spanish and Esperanto.

proficient on violin, viola, piano, flute and mandolin.