Great Video. . .

Sacred Spirit - The Counterclockwise Circle Dance
(Ly O Lay Ale Loya)

A beautiful video. I was so excited to find the actual music video for this song from the first Sacred Spirit album. They are one of my favorite groups, and I just absolutely love this song from their Grammy-nominated series. I've had these CDs for a really long time, and NEVER get tired of listening to them. The fusion of modern electronic beats merged with traditional Native American chants is completely transcending, almost similar to Enigma - my all-time fave. And the video, I think, sends a beautiful and powerful message. I was also surprised to find that the actress in this video (Irene Bedard) was the original voice and model for Disney's Pocahontas. Pretty cool. So take a break, sit back, and make sure you turn this one up. I guarantee you'll be moved and will want to hear it again and again.

If you like what you hear, go pick up a copy. For each CD sold, a donation is made to the Native American Rights Fund.

Work to be Published in CMYK MAGAZINE

I am honored to announce that my work will be featured in CMYK Magazine's 40th Issue, to hit newsstands this April. The above piece, Blackbirds Are Gathering was selected through the magazine's "Call for Aspiring Creatives," one of the most high-profile emerging creative portfolio contests in the nation. It's moments like these when you can take a moment to step back and breathe; to look upon all your hard work and remember why you pursue your greatest passion in the first place . . . because it's something you live to do, and it's something you're meant to do. I simply can't imagine doing anything else with my life that would bring me so much joy and satisfaction.

For us creatives, even the tears (what creative pursuits come without them?) that try to sometimes get in the way of us reaching our dreams are worthwhile moments of growth that only prepare us for better things down the road. I know it'll really hit me when I see it printed. And I cannot fail to give my thanks to all those involved in my life -- family, friends, mentors, and peers -- who help make a moment like this that much better, and that much more special. You all know who you are!

For those of you not familiar with the magazine, you can check out their website here.

Book Cover Illustrations. . .

Arthur Miller's The Crucible

I'm currently working on a series of book cover illustrations as part of my senior thesis, focusing on classic American texts. The Crucible by Arthur Miller is one of my favorite plays, and I couldn't think of a better one to kick off the body of work. As many of you probably already know, the story's plot centers around the Salem Witchcraft Trials of 1692, so, in this illustration, I wanted to make sure that the proper mood and mystery of old New England and Salem Village was evoked.

Washington Irving's The Legend of Sleepy Hollow

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow by Washington Irving. Another one of my absolute favorite stories, and one that is full of rich imagery to paint. I've also been waiting to give myself a reason to paint something with a pumpkin in it, so I really had fun with this one!

Updates! Updates!

Hi, all. Finally getting around to some much-needed updating here. Tons of things are going on, and the year is off to a super start so far. Lots of work is being done, and I'm having a blast! Hope all the rest of you are doing good, too! I'll be playing a little catch-up here first, and will begin posting regularly once again. So stay tuned!