Starting From Scratch

For as long as I can remember, I always loved making art. I grew up drawing Garfield and Mad Magazine comics, along with my obession over pop star legend Micheal Jackson and Steven Spielberg's alien, E.T.

 

I began entering The Providence Journal Bulletin's Junior Edition, Toothloose LaWreck's drawing contest at thirteen years old. I remember the anticipation of running to get Saturday's paper delivery, flipping to the last page, and the excitement of seeing my artwork published.

 

I attented CCRI's Fine Art program from 1988 to 1995 and transferred to UMASS Dartmouth from 1996 to 2001, where I developed my scratchboard technique during my senior year under the study of Bob Selby.

 

In 1998, I worked at a major toy manufacturer, as a model-artist painting prototype toys for 8 years and the last 6 years as a department supervisor, which became a defining moment for me when my artistry became shelved. I searched for self-discovery through many self-help books and found comfort in reading children's books for their innocence and wonder. I pledged to become more involved with the children's book industry by joining the Society for Children's Book Writing and Illustrating in 2008.

 

In 2013, I devoted a year to cultivate my craft to begin my journey to publication...