Duration: Two years.

Staff: My wife and I.

Education: A BFA in graphic design from Brigham Young University in Idaho.

Influences: Nature is a great creative source, but I am also heavily inspired by midcentury modern design. The experimentation with bold, simple shapes and bursts of color is what intrigues me about that era. Some specific artists I look up to are Alvin Lustig, Charley Harper, Miroslav Sasek, Saul Bass and Ray and Charles Eames, among others.

First Big Break: I got a job with the small startup Column Five Media, which allowed me a lot of creative liberty right out of college. I realized I could illustrate as a profession, and I never looked back from there.

Work Environment: My studio is in an extra bedroom in our home for the time being. It is nice not having to get dressed for the day (at least from the waist down).

Technique: All my work is digital, but I do start with sketches. I generally use a combination of Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop on all of my projects. I love how perfect vectors can be, but for textures and looser drawings, I prefer Photoshop.

Philosophy: Always experiment and play. This is especially important when I don't have client projects. I only get better with mileage. Some days I make work for me, and other days I do work for others. Both are important to stay happy.