-2017- Very First Conceptual Sketch
This very simple Sharpie and Paint-Pen sketch marks the very first conceptual exploration of what would be the start of my Cryptid series, with this base creature evolving to what would in the present become my Forest Deity.
-2018-2019- Debut Cyanotype Series
I was drawn to exploring the idea of imaginary creatures being able to manifest in the world around us, leading to my first full study of Cryptids. Using transparent film that combined my illustrations with real images from the area I live in, I created a series of Cyanotypes that would go on to inspire the entire concept of my Cryptid works.
-2018-2019- Solidifying of Ideas
After envisioning these seemingly outlandish and impossible creatures, I decided to lean further into the initial designs of my Cryptids. My goal during this period was to create other ways they may manifest themselves conceptually.
-2019- Exploration of Other Mediums
With the popular reception of my initial Cryptid Cyanotype series, I challenged myself to continue to delve into the creatures I had designed. Part of this process consisted of experimenting with other mediums and presentation methods. In the case of this example, reducing a larger concept down to a tiny painted pin sealed with resin.
-2019- First Experiments
Having now solidified my concepts enough to present them in a number of different methods and mediums, I made my first attempt at a 3D to-scale interpretation of what had become my Forest Deity. There were a number of challenges and limitations presented in trying to make such a larger-than-life concept a reality, but this step on my journey only further fueled my desire to make these creatures real.
-2020- Voidweaver
Upon hearing about the Shuchat Fine Art grant that was awarded to a selected three students by my University each year, I wrote and submitted a proposal for bringing my creatures to life. I was awarded the grant and spent the entirety of the summer 2020 in my garage teaching myself how to make my dream a reality. This included teaching myself how to build internal structures from wood, wire, paper mache, and fabric, while keeping my concepts intact.
-2020- Forest Deity
The ability to bring what was once just an arbitrary sketch to life in the form of a 12-foot-tall sculpture is, to this day, one of the best experiences of my life. Though my Forest Deity has now been retired, Voidweaver will be making a reappearance in Independence, Oregon as part of the opening of the Slough Gallery in the summer of 2021.
-2021- The Cryptid Menagerie
After such a momentous project I wasn't sure if my Cryptids would become a concept I felt was finished. However, after spending a few months starting my senior capstone project, Retinoculus, I still found myself missing the unusual little creatures I had journeyed with so long. With a desire to continue their story, I created a small 10-piece painted series exploring both my fully formed Cryptids, as well as introducing new concepts and ideas.
-2021- The Cryptid Menagerie Cont.
The name Cryptid Menagerie came to me as a suitable title to describe both the content and the style of presentation I use in making my creatures. Enjoying the kind of novelty this title brought to this smaller painted series, I realized its resonance with my other pieces as well. It has now become how I refer to the entire series of projects to this day.