Michigan

Art Education: I grew up with an artistic family, and my high-school art education led me to choose a major in art and design. I earned my bachelor’s degree in illustration from Grand Valley State University in Michigan. I took a few painting classes as electives, but it wasn’t until after I graduated that I dove into painting.

Style: My work is influenced by many art styles and movements that I appreciate and admire. Art nouveau, Japanese woodblock prints, impressionism, and contemporary illustration are all art styles that have influenced my work, but my style is still unique to me. Through my paintings I create an illusion of movement. I want my paintings to capture the energy of the beauty within nature, and to feel as if they are alive.

Second-Choice Career: I would continue to create. I would pursue making handcrafted pottery, jewelry, or music. I plan on dabbling in all of them throughout my life.

Other Passions: I love dancing, music, and adventuring outdoors. Attending electronic dance music events is a big part of my life and inspiration for my work.

Favorite Work by Another Artist:I admire the works of Erin Hanson, Franklin Carmichael, and Alphonse Mucha.

Future Goals: My goals are to continue to spread my art. I would like to hike and paint the national forests. I would also like to continue other art forms like pottery and jewelry design.

Representation: Somebody’s Gallery, Petoskey, MI; Higher Art Gallery, Traverse City, MI; Lafontsee Galleries, Grand Rapids, MI; www.randifordart.com.

This story was featured in the September 2018 issue of Southwest Art magazine. Get the Southwest Art September 2018 print issue or digital download now–then subscribe to Southwest Art and never miss another story.