In 2005, I graduated from the Savannah College of Art and Design with a BFA in painting and a minor in computer art. And my career so far, has pretty much mirrored that – I’ve been able to find work in the fine-arts and commercial design fields.

The bulk of my work experience is the almost three year stint as art assistant-turned-studio manager for an ambitious contemporary artist by the name of Benjamin Edwards. Working for Ben was an amazing experience, one that tempered me and rounded out my skills in organization and time management.

After being laid off in November 2008, I kept up a small flow of contract work as well as help Ben close down and clean up the studio. The economy at that point was at an all time low and job prospects were thin. Contract work was light as well, and I diverted my attention to volunteering at a local food bank and some small landscaping jobs. When the weather warmed up, I set off across the country on my bicycle. Lasting three months and winding though spectacular landscapes, this trip was definitely a once in a lifetime experience.