Roll 20 for initiative
I excel in both creating exceptional works and fostering emerging talent. With a genuine love for nurturing creativity, I specialize in managing and instructing fellow artists. See why you may benefit from my guidance as an experienced industry professional:
I am an educator and leader. As an instructor of Figure Drawing and Science Fiction and Fantasy illustration at the number one public art university in the country, Virginia Commonwealth University – I act as Art Director for 50+ students concurrently each semester. Specializing in the topics of figure drawing, science fiction and fantasy illustration, I have developed robust skills in critical feedback and constructive discourse. I have discovered that I find the most joy in mentoring others through narrative projects from ideation to finish, and this has led me to seek out a path of Art Director – to become a supporter and facilitator for the art of storytelling.
I am an artist and an illustrator. As such, I have intimate knowledge of the skills and steps required for artists to create successful work. Additionally, this gives me a great deal of empathy and awareness in respect to the challenges of creating work. I have created art for fine art gallery shows, as well as exhibiting at Sci-Fi/Fantasy convention IX Arts - formerly IlluXcon - the largest exhibition of MTG Artists in the world. I have received multiple awards and scholarships for my art over the years - including one from the IX Art’s juried scholarship - and sold personal paintings that hang in private collections throughout VA, NY, FL, and more.
I am already a collaborator in the industry. I have actively sought opportunities to develop connections with colleagues, students, Artists, Art Directors, collectors, and show coordinators throughout the years. Besides attending IX Arts event myself as both a student and an artist - I recently partnered with the founders to come teach and bring students and faculty from VCUarts to the yearly event. The collaboration is now in its third year, and I have secured funding - including a Faculty Dean’s Award from VCU’s school of the Arts. My event responsibilities included planning, managing, coordinating student and faculty schedules, tabling, and teaching workshops at the events. I have also been collaborating with Weta workshop, and more!
It’s not just about me.
I lead with empathy. As a woman and a leader who is neurodivergent, a member of the LGBTQA+ community, and who works with a diverse group of students and faculty - I am intimately familiar with how unconscious bias effects stories we tell. I strive to always listen first, and to provide inclusion and equity in the classroom. I heavily prioritize fostering a strong supportive community - where students of all backgrounds feel empowered to create their best work. As such, I am regularly sought for mentorship by the young people I teach – and always staying a student myself leads me to actively seek out mentorships as a way to grow.