My path to art has been in the works for many years. I have always loved art class and playing around with various media techniques. Some art methods I have experience with are watercolor, acrylic paint, jewelry making, photography and woodworking. Of course, the biggest art field I work with is digital art. However, I didn't really start fiddling with digital manipulation until, Print Master in the late 1990's. Which I used for design posters, birthday cards and invitations for family and friends. I continued art as a hobby until I was able to follow my creative passion by going back to college as a mom and full-time Office Manager.
It took many years to officially make the leap to pursue a degree for art. I had a lot going on raising two kids and making sure I was financially stable enough to follow my art dreams. In January of 2017, I started my path, pursuing an Associate degree in Graphic & Web design. This degree combined my passion and experience with computers with the excitement and creativity of my art. From that experience, I've learned how to balance work, school, home life and my personal health.
I have to say, going back to school taught me even more than I expected because it happened during the height of the pandemic. We weren't able to attend in person classes and had to conduct course work remotely. As a result, I learned to appreciate staying connected via digital technology and the importance of raising the bar on those experiences. I enjoyed being in classes, the hands-on experiences provided, the input that was exchanged and the energy of my fellow students, and friends. On top of that, the instructors' interactions filled me with the excitement of working with a creative team in the design world. And even though I was not able to participate in an official graduation ceremony (thanks COVID) I was able to graduate and receive my diploma though through the mail.
This was my second-degree and I am most proud of it because I earned honors and was inducted into Honor roll society of Phi Theta Kappa. Since graduation, I continue to focus my efforts on the world of design. I work with small businesses like Baker Chiropractic, Rock n Roll Yoga Goddess and The Unturned Stone Bakeshop designing their logos, websites and managing social media campaigns.
In Fall of 2021, I was interested in expanding my video editing knowledge with Adobe Premiere Pro and decided to head back to class at St. Charles Community College for that extra foundation. I learned a number of tips & tricks as part of that course but remain focused on continued learning. I have an unquenchable thirst when it comes to art.
I am excited & ready for the next leg in my journey: a Full-time Graphic Design role with a team that is as inspired as I am to promote the art of branding & design. Until I find my place, I will be having fun exploring the endless styles of art, submitting art into exhibitions, and researching trends and methods to bring precise messaging to the world around me.
Thank you!