ME
Growing up in Oregon, running around the backyard and exploring the woods next-door, I developed a fascination with wildlife — especially insects. This, I have not grown out of. Since then, I have studied insects independently and as an undergraduate at Purdue University, followed a career path in entomology as a research assistant, and allowed insects to fuel my creativity outside the lab. Often, insects become veiled by a widespread perception of disgust or fear, however, there is a certain mystery associated with insects and such that they are commonly overlooked.
As an entomologist I am able to see insects closer than most ever want to, but as a creative individual, I find incredible beauty in them as well. Though small, simple, generally disliked, and mostly hidden, the world of insects is overflowing with unique colors, shapes, patterns, and structures with unique and functional design. Even more, they run the world in their numbers and keep it in balance with their curious ecological niches. It is a privilege to see insects from this perspective and I strive to share the hidden beauty that I find through my illustration and photography.
