Introduction to Graphic Novel Design & Illustration

I am passionate about sharing my love for fantasy art and empowering students with the foundational tools they need to make their imaginations come alive on paper. I teach art to kids from ages 3 to 18+ years old.

For the younger kids, Harry Potter, Wings of Fire, Warrior Cats, Squishmallows, Pokemon... these are all popular names in any household with kids. As a father of three school-aged kids, I see firsthand that art has a valuable role in any child’s education. Art inspires creativity,  builds concentration/focus and helps particularly younger students work on fine motor skills. There is a lot of pride and sense of accomplishment when a child's “masterpiece" is created, and it's always fun to show it off to friends and family. 

For the older students, Anime (Demon Slayer, My Hero Academia, One Piece) is a hot topic. Digital Art and Animation is another fast growing art medium and an important skill set for aspiring arts looking to get into the entertainment industry, specifically, video games and animated movies. 2D art skills always remains a staple and I also help older students looking to build their portfolio for college applications.

Art is important. It can communicate information, shape our everyday lives, make a social statement and be enjoyed for aesthetic beauty. Art matters because it can illustrate the human experience. It is meant to move people either on an intellectual or emotional level. Art is not just an expression of emotion but also a medium for communicating ideas. It can act as therapeutic relief, a conduit for self-expression, or simply a way to appreciate life's beauty. Through art, we can chronicle history, embody societal values, and comment on political or social events. 

The Core Six: Why Art Matters

The realm of art is vast, and its significance has evolved over time. However, there are seven primary reasons why art has remained indispensable to humanity:

 1. Escape from Reality: Art offers a haven from the every day, allowing us to step into different worlds and perspectives.
 
2. Fostering Community: It establishes a shared identity and sense of belonging among diverse groups.

3. Self-Expression and Awareness: Art provides a platform to voice our feelings, thoughts, and identities.

4. Contemplation and Reflection: Through art, we can introspect and ponder life's mysteries.

5. Entertainment and Joy: Beyond its deeper meanings, art can also be sheer fun and enjoyment.

6. Eliciting Strong Reactions: Art has the power to inspire awe, wonder, and introspection.


I have a degree in animation and over twenty years of experience not only teaching art but also as a professional artist, working on everything from Dungeons & Dragons illustrations to UX design for large-scale corporate applications. I love what I do, so it seldom feels like work to me, and it feels great to be able to help lay the foundation for that kind of relationship with art in others.