Working on Michifornia was an iterative process. Michifornia presents an abstract, mixed media exhibit that represents two of the places I call home: Michigan, where I was born and spent a great deal of my life; and California, where I currently live and go to school. The exhibit is a blend of real-life photography with artistically, manipulated colors, textures, and figures. The result is a series of photos that represent the metamorphosis one experiences when moving from one place to another and more importantly, when one, like me, has roots in more than one place.

The Midwest Autumn colors of the original photo provide a rootedness that characterizes my own experience as well as the image that many associate with places like Michigan. Next, the series shows an evolution of colors and textures that more closely resemble the beach-like tones that are often associated with the wandering, wild west environment of southern California. I hope the piece inspires others to reflect on the places they call home.

I’m insatiably curious. And my curiosity informs the way I approach graphic design. I love working on a variety of projects and using design to bring ideas to life.