What I Do: As the Threads art director, I envision and execute the design and layout of each issue. My role requires the conception, organization, and direction of all graphic design, photography, and illustration. I am responsible for delivering a cohesive brand identity and communicative style that supports Threads’ editorial mission.
Interesting Fact About Me: My mother told me she noticed that from a young age I appreciated the beauty in everyday things—especially clothing. When I was still in a stroller, we would pass elaborate window arrangements at the mall and I would want to stop and inspect all the alluring ensembles on display. When she realized how interested I was in how things were made, she pulled out her 1960s Singer sewing machine, which had been passed down from my grandmother, and taught me to sew. I was transfixed. I think I deconstructed every old Halloween costume and piece of unwanted clothing I could get my hands on and put them back together into new garments. The results were mixed to say the least. But I loved it. I loved creating. That led me to pursue studies in fashion and art when I was older. I realized I could combine my interests in art, design, and expression through clothing. That meant I could create something with my hands every day.
My undergraduate studies in art and apparel design opened my eyes to the world of graphic design, and I was captivated once again. I decided to pursue another major in graphic design on top of fashion. That perfect combination of apparel construction knowledge and graphic design know-how served me in finding the perfect internship for my skill set with a magazine called Threads. I’d actually bought and used multiple issues of Threads to expand my knowledge of more advanced and technical sewing practices in school. I had hit the big time! I was able to learn from some of the most skilled sewers, designers, and creatives that I’d ever worked with.
Little did that intern know, one day he would be presented with the opportunity to become the art director of a publication with which he had such a meaningful history. The little kid ripping up Halloween costumes and scribbling crayon masterpieces on the walls lives on through what I do every day at Threads. I loved using my hands to create then, and I love using my hands to create now.
What I’m Passionate About: I’m passionate about expressing myself through art and design. I get so much satisfaction from making something out of nothing and finding pride in the finished product. Whether it’s a garment, the layout of a magazine, or an original illustration, I love to create something start to finish.
What I Like About Working for Taunton: The Taunton Press is made up of people who share the same passions for their craft that I do. I get to spend every day working with others who are just as obsessed with honing their fine skills to make beautiful things. We are excited about bringing those things to an audience that shares that mindset. Working for Taunton is more than just a job—passion and creativity are at the core of everything we do.