Born and raised in Oregon, I grew up studying classical guitar, playing in the high school jazz ensemble, and edging toward a career in music. I lived my early 20's in Portland, practicing my instrument, working in a record store and roasting coffee. I got serious and migrated South in 1988 to pursue a BFA in Guitar Performance from California Institute of the Arts. Graduating in 1991, I continued in pursuit of an MFA but paused for a move to New York City in 1992. Intended as a two-year stint to pursue performance opportunities with dedicated bandmates, this stretched to 1996. I completed the MFA in 1997 and this lead to several years of teaching, music administration and performance back in NYC.
Motivated toward stability, in the early aughts I refocused my career and over the course of a few years moved my career path to graphic design which lead to a 25+ year career in corporate creative delivering design, art direction and creative services.
A few years of challenging life changes have brought me full circle back to my core as a creative. I’m focused on playing, teaching and administrating music again as I contemplate the remainder of my time in this earthly physical space.
My goal is to share what I can of my creativity without expectations, limitations or reservations.