Illustration & Hand-lettering

Recent projects

Why draw or use illustrations?

1. Humans are born knowing how to draw. Our ability to draw actually goes back even further. Archaeological records indicate that drawing was the first visual representation method. As a result, drawings and illustrations capture our attention in a way photographs cannot.

2. Despite, or perhaps because of technological advances, drawing is still a key part of conducting and communicating science. A sketch enables you to do something a photograph cannot – you can highlight key features, combine elements, and depict fleeting or rare events. And, a sketchbook and pencil cannot run out of batteries, short circuit, or lose functionality because you forgot the proper cable.

3. Drawings are a powerful learning tool. Drawing compels us to slow down, to really see what we are looking at. It also offers time and physical interactions necessary for reflection and memory building.

One of my favorite parts of illustrating science, sustainability, and natural history is sharing it with others.

Whether that means illustrating a nature-related concept or story, collaborating with researchers or teaching observational sketching workshops, I love showing how science and art are inextricably linked.

My specialties            

• Food & Agriculture                              
  
• Science & Nature
• Sustainability
• Artist-in-School Residencies
• Professional Development Trainings
• Workshops & private classes 

Complimentary colors (green & orange); fish in an aquarium (watercolor & felt-tip pen over pencil)

A bit more detail…

My illustrations have been used for communicating about ecology, urban sustainability, sustainable food and agriculture, DIY food and gardening projects, hunting and gathering, and the people that do all these things.

My illustrations are used for editorial purposes (magazines, newspapers, and online), publicity and outreach, educational programs and materials, and scientific documents. Scroll to the bottom to view a list of some of my past clients or click here to see how my illustrations have enhanced clients’ projects.

In my current role, I am engaged with projects that combine fascination with the natural world and a deep appreciation for visual communication. I’m particularly excited about illustrating stories for children, editorial projects, artist-in-schools residencies, and collaborating with researchers interested in incorporating drawing into their research, teaching, and public communication efforts.

How a frog in pants helped explain the mysteries of sexual reproduction (my illustrations!)

Field sketches in preparation for a series of wetland illustrations, commissioned by the Watershed Education Network

My style

My style is elegant and simple – line work complemented by spot color that emphasizes the focus of a drawing. My illustrations convey vivacity, spontaneity, and the energy of the places and subjects they depict. This approach is consistent across media, whether I draw with pencil, pen and ink, watercolor, or digitally.

My affiliations