What advice would you give an aspiring illustrator/animator? If you could go back, would you have done anything differently?
DI don't think I would do anything differently. You learn from mistakes as well as taking on projects... sometimes ones that are a bit more than you can handle.

How do you keep your work fresh? Do you need to consciously adapt your style or does it progress naturally?
I keep up with current events, design mags and websites for the lastest and greatest on styles and trends as much as I can.

What is your favorite style of illustration/animation?
Banksy street art style, of course anything colorful, edgy with high contrast.

How did you decide you wanted to become a designer/illustrator?
I started in the design business after being hired at a small design firm as the illustrator. I learned a lot working there about graphic design and studied on my own and eventually started my own business after accumulating some clients.

What is your background?
After a few years in college, I quit, due to the world of automotive drafting where I was making good money at a young age. I worked for over 10 years as a technical illustrator and processor (working on manuals) and was taught how to use, at that time, the brand new program Adobe Illustrator. I created illustrations on the computer and it changed my whole view on drawing. How easy it was to draw, make an error and correct. No more pens, pencils and eraser that left behind blemished paper. I eventually bought my own Apple and took on small jobs here and there working occasional evenings on real estate "for sale" flyers, brochures and other design projects. My husband and I moved to CA about 12 years ago and I was hired by a small design firm as their illustrator. Over the 3 yrs working with them I learned all about the graphic design business and got to work on quite a few design projects along with illustrating.

I've read that you were self-trained. How did you teach yourself good design skills?
Books, online forums and design sites, great design magazines and bouncing my ideas off of other designer friends for advice.

What skills do you consider most valuable in a good designer/illustrator?
The ability to listen to your client and always give 100% to each project.

Which do you prefer, illustration or design?
Illustration would be my favorite even though I do enjoy designing. I usually have more freedom with an illustration.

What do you do to recharge your creative batteries?
Actually getting away from my computer for a few hours or even a day or two. Going for a long bike ride or some sort of exercise helps me.

How would you explain your style of illustration/design?
Humorous, pop artish and sometimes slightly irreverent.