For 10 years I spent the majority of my working life as a full-time visual artist making work in cities such as, Houston, Austin and Minneapolis. I was blessed to work along-side world class muralists and painters as well as learn from successful businessmen and entrepreneurs. I come from a family of entrepreneurs. At the peak of my commercial art career in Minneapolis my wife and I decided I should finish my degree and pursue a more creative application for my skills as an artist. We found ourselves drawn to Chattanooga, a quaint, outdoor enthusiast capital of the Southeast. While finishing my business degree I continued to invest in public art and contributing to my city as a mural and studio artist. Over the years Chattanooga has also become an arts destination and I have been blessed to be a part of that transformation.

In 2010, by happenstance, I discovered I had a real passion for teaching and mentoring. I dedicated the next several years to do just that and invest in young lives to see them actualize their own potential as young artists. This went beyond the classroom and included a range of projects and experiences aimed at mentoring by empowering. This included community mural projects, design competitions, art car competitions, and service projects.

In 2014 I was promoted to Fine Arts Director over all aspects of the upper school arts at a k12 private school. As a strategic leader I was tasked with developing the overall arts. This has included visioning and hiring for a new design program, creating multi-disciplinary events, offering entrepreneurship in the arts, facility planning, and shaping a culture of value for the arts by greater integration and visibility. I also served on the Chattanooga Public Art Commission and the executive committee, as well as, chair of the artist services committee.

2020 was a notable year like no other. My family and I decided to return to our roots in Minneapolis. After the riots and the murder of George Floyd, we felt further convicted that we should be go home to our families and our city. I am currently living and working in arts education with inner-city students only blocks from the George Floyd memorial. It is an honor to partner with these students and families and to be home again doing what I love.

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