Though I now live in Mount Horeb,
Wisconsin I'm originally from Western
Pennsylvania. Born in Butler, PA
I grew to have a desire to be a professional artist. It wasn't a common career
path in the somewhat rural area I'd lived in. It was generally encouraged to "work
at the Mill," as my Papa would say. Instead I followed my passion.
I then lived in Pittsburgh
for many years, first attending the Art Institute of PGH, and then working in
various career related jobs. I spent nearly 15 years working in the Exhibits
Department of the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. There I began as a
diorama preparator creating fake rocks, plants, etc.. When I left the museum in
2007 I was the Creative Coordinator, working in a variety of mediums such as
computer interactives, and producing short educational films.
I loved working there, being in that particular building,
which is so unique and full of knowledge and culture. The exhibits design staff,
and the scientific community always stimulated my creativity and growth. I can
honestly say I never thought I'd leave of my own free will.
Yet something I loved even greater drew me away. See, whilst
I'd worked in a variety of mediums it wasn't until I picked up my first dSLR
that I knew I'd found the personal medium I'd always sought. All those years
working as a pro-artist I'd never actually felt like an "artist." Then
one day I bought a new camera, started shooting, and suddenly the possibilities
opened before me! Over the years I'd built up a tremendous store of know how,
and aesthetics, and it all came together when I looked through a lens.
I was actually beginning to plan a major career change when
I met my wife, Teri. That changed everything! Now I had two big loves in my
life. In no time flat I'd run off, married her, and little over a year later
the next big change occurred. We had a baby girl, whom we named Freja. I then
did what I have always wanted; I left the museum to not only pursue my passion
for photography, but also to become a parent.
I can honestly say these have been the very best years of my life!
