From crayons to markers, pencils to paint brushes; drawing and painting has always been my first and favorite form of communication.  Growing up around a grandmother and mother who were both educators always meant there were plenty of art supplies and encouragement for me to experiment while growing up.  I attended Virginia Commonwealth University where I studied Illustration and graduated in 2002 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts.  Upon graduation, I was accepted into the Illustrators Academy in Richmond, VA where I had the opportunity to study under some of the top Illustrators in the field.  I began as a freelance Illustrator, working for such clients as Richmond Magazine, Roanoke Railhouse Brewery, YMCA, Rock Island Books, and various Minor League baseball franchises.  With a strong skill of capturing likenesses, I began working portraits into my portfolio. I had the privilege of painting the official portrait of two retiring Judges here in the Commonwealth of Virginia as well as a portrait of John Fishwick that was commissioned to dedicate the newly named John Fishwick Middle School for Roanoke City Public Schools. I have also had the privilege of donating paintings and commissions to help raise funds for a variety of local causes, including; Stafford's Soldiers, YMCA of Virginia's Blue Ridge, and North Cross School.  I currently reside in Roanoke, VA where I am constantly showered with inspiration, love, and support by my wife Whitney, and our two boys, Calan and Walker.