|
 
Bio
Creating some form of newsletter, fanzine, book, or other visual creation has consistently been part of my life since I can remember. In 1982, I discovered the world of publishing through my love of music, when at age 12, I created Interference, a fanzine dedicated to my then favorite band. Within a year's time I gained over 200 subscribers in the US and Canada. Later, the 'zine evolved into All the Voices, another music publication. This was all before computers were widely used and I relied on my typewriter, dry transfer letters, and copy machines to create each issue.
During my college years in the early 1990's my 'zine changed course again and became Cheese Sandwich Revival, a forum for creative writing and art. It was my publishing outlet while I was pursuing my degree in fine art. By then I was using a computer and WordPerfect. In 1993, I graduated with a BA in Studio Art (with a concentration in painting) from Kent State University. I continued painting for my own enjoyment, and the 'zine lived on for several years.
Not satisfied with just a personal 'zine, creating publications for myself then spilled into my professional life. After graduation I produced a department newsletter for my first employer post graduation using the Corel Design package. In 1995, I accepted a position with a local Humane Society as their staff Editor/Graphic Designer. I redesigned the society's publication Animal Chatter and handled all other design needs for the organization.
A year later I joined the staff of The Cleveland Museum of Natural History in the Membership and Development Department, and have since been part of a long and fulfilling relationship with that organization. At the museum, I was provided with many creative outlets within the Membership and Development Departments. Using Adobe PageMaker, among other things I designed and edited The Adventure Gazette, a bi-monthly newsletter for The Museum's Adventure Club for Kids, and I designed mugs that were given away as membership incentives.
After being promoted to a position within the museum's Development Department, I was responsible for developing the concept, writing the copy for, and working with an outside designer to produce Annual Fund campaign mailings that were sent to over 10,000 donors and members.
In 2000 I established my own business, which at the time focused on a variety of projects ranging from database administration and support to graphic design services. Continuing my connection with the publishing world, starting in 2001, I accepted freelance work for Roxbury Publishing Company, a college textbook publishing company based in Los Angeles, California. Initially my role was that of research and support for the company's web designer, but through the years I eventually helped maintain the company's website and became the lead contact for Roxbury's Amazon listings.
In 2006 I began assisting one of the company's Production Managers, aiding in production editing and eventually preparing files for the typesetter. I also began working with Adobe InDesign. At the encouragement of the Production Manager, I was urged to pursue more work in the production process in the role of designer. My love of publishing and the publishing process was encouraged and as a result I have continued to redefine the focus of Tulip Tree Creative Studios, which now includes book design among its services.
The museum has also remained a client, and in addition to the support work I do for them, I have also worked on the Annual Fund mailings, as well as other printed materials, in the role of designer. Other client projects run the gammut of print design, web design and maintenance, and email newsletters via Constant Contact.
When not producing through Tulip Tree Creative Studios, I can very often be found in front of my computer, creating projects for myself, or on the floor working on a canvas or watercolor illustration. In 2008 I designed and produced a 120-page full color hardbound cookbook. Using contributions from family members and friends, the cookbook combines family recipes with art, and it is a celebration of the talents of my family and friends. I have also created a fitness journal/organizational calendar that is available for purchase. At present I am working on the book design for two novels, as well as the design for a children's short story, and have returned to painting regularly. I recently opened a shop on Etsy.com to make available original works of art as well as giclee prints.
Please contact me if you wish to discuss your projects, including print or web design, commissioned paintings or for more information about prints and completed original works available for purchase.
Software: Adobe Creative Suite ( including InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, Acrobat Professional, Live Cycle, Dreamweaver). Constant Contact. Microsoft Office Suite.
©2010 Tulip Tree Creative Studios |
