PRESS
ABOUT
Big inspiration for me comes through identifying natural phenomenon and displaying them in a way that generates unique experiences for each viewer.
Born by the woods, I was raised with a big connection to land and space. As an only child I have always been acutely curious and observant of the world around me. My first memory of large scale art was seeing the bronze lions that stand watch at the steps of The Art Institute of Chicago. Ever since, I have been intrigued by monumental art because of its unique ability to create a surreal experience by playing off scale and surroundings.
Growing up as a suburban teen I would also frequent the mall and was drawn to the sets of storefront window displays, street wear brands, and band tee artwork. This prompted an interest in graphic design.
As it turned out, creating only in 2D was not quite enough, so I searched for mediums that would offer something more. While at Arizona State University I discovered a love for Neon, and Sculpture was where I finally felt at home. I was able to blend my skills and utilize multiple mediums, incorporating machine technologies like the CNC plasma cutter and welders to illustrate an idea.
During this time, I also started a project highlighting the philosophy that art is not a noun, but a verb. This was the birth of Snoodmen, and as an extension, the creative collective Snood City.
Snoodmen is a gesture-based creature that uses only body language and movement to communicate. Snood City, with Snoodmen as its mascot, functions as an arts collective, production house, neon shop, and entrepreneurial incubator. The motto of Snoodmen and the residents of Snood City is, “Stay Unconventional”. Snood is a platform for interactivity and growth that stands on pillars of collaboration, engaged activation, and creation of wow-factor works.
My goal is to create iconic pieces that prompt people to take in their surroundings by playing with perception.