What drew you to working with mission-driven organizations and causes?

I think being an artist and working with art organizations was really the start. I’ve spent the last 20 years working in the art community as part of many nonprofits. Doing that really teaches you the value of all nonprofit and philanthropic work. 

Can you describe your partnership with Benefactor Group and why you choose to continue to collaborate?

For more than a dozen years now I’ve been working as a freelance illustrator and designer, helping with the annual Giving USA infographic. I love the complexity of taking such an interesting subject (and perhaps boring to someone not familiar with the data) and making it digestible and understandable to anyone. Even after a dozen years of helping, the information still seems fascinating to me and telling of how the world is working. 

How would you describe your creative process? What inspires you when you are uninspired?

Beyond working on graphics like the ones I do for Benefactor Group, I’m also a practicing artist and community organizer. I rarely have trouble with inspiration, as most of my personal work is a reflection on life. Inspiration is almost unescapable. And even the themes for those infographics normally just appear when reflecting on how the world and life are operating when it is time to make them. 

We are living in rapidly changing times—which extends to the philanthropic landscape. What gives you hope for the future of philanthropy over the next five years?

I truly believe there are more people that care to see good in the world than there are wishing to dismantle it. I believe those seeking to do good are better at putting their money where their mouth is than just talking. 

What influences how you support causes—whether through your donations, volunteer work, or advocacy?

After 20 years of being involved in supporting causes, I’ve narrowed my offers of support to those that I feel I can make the most impact with, not just financially, but through my connections and knowledge. That impact is more and more important as I get older. 

If you could make a $1 million gift to any organization, where would you direct your contributions and why?

If I could make a $1M contribution, it would go to artists. It could go through any organization as long as the money goes into the hands of artists. I know the power artists have to affect the world for the better and I know how under supported they are in their work. 

Where can someone find you when you’re not at work?

I don’t really work. And I work all the time. I’m probably in my studio or on a lift painting a wall. There is a chance I’m in my van driving somewhere on an adventure.

What are you currently reading, or what do you recommend?

I’m not much of a reader. You will most likely find me playing a new board game with friends instead.