Background and Education
HI -> SoCal -> PNW -> HI
Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, on the island of Oahu, I am a Punahou School alumnus who received a Bachelor of Studio Arts, with emphasis in graphic design, from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, California. While earning my degree, I was given the award for Scholar of Distinction in Graphic Design by Loyola Marymount University’s Department of Art and Art History. I was also selected to display my work in Loyola Marymount University’s Annual Research Symposium.
Upon receiving my Bachelor’s degree, looking for a change, I decided to make my way up to Seattle and experience the Pacific Northwest. After doing contract work for Google Maps and CDK Global, I was fortunate enough to land a full time role at Fluke Corporation, a global leader in test and measurement. At Fluke, I developed from a junior designer role into a senior position and expanded upon my knowledge of graphic design, visual UX design, branding, and process improvement.
With the onset of the covid-19 pandemic, and ability to work remote, I decided that it was time for me to move back home. I am happily enjoying everything that I love about the islands and hope to continue my design career from this special place.
Path to Design
One joy leading to another
Since a young age, I always found enjoyment in art and the ability to create things using clay, wood, charcoal, paint, ink, or, my favorite medium at the time, pencil. I loved to draw. Drawing was an easily accessible and convenient way to release my creative imagination, while also combating any sort of boredom. Throughout elementary, middle, and high school, it was a consistent hobby that brought me joy, while also challenging me to improve my skills.
Upon entering college, when it was time to decide upon a major that would influence my career path, once I saw that there was a program for graphic design, I instinctively knew that this was the path that I wanted to pursue. I could continue my love for drawing while also being introduced to new methods of incorporating digital programs to create works that are both attractive and functional.
By the end of college, my freshmen year instincts were confirmed that design was the career path I wanted to pursue. When I moved to Seattle, although I was unable to immediately showcase the design skills I had learned, those contract roles exposed me to other “real world” knowledge and eventually led to my design role at Fluke.
Passion for Design
More than just art
As a designer, I enjoy the challenge of being a storyteller through the creation of graphics that are meaningful, functional, and aesthetically innovative. I appreciate the visual problem solving and critical thinking required during the creative process, the satisfaction of producing something with purpose, and the reward of helping others achieve their creative aspirations. I am particularly fond of branding and identity which incorporates all the aforementioned components of design into one cross functional, cross media project.
Other Interests
Because there’s more to life than just a career
Aside from design, I’m a laid back guy who appreciates what nature has to offer, particularly the beach. I enjoy chilling in the water, hiking up to a scenic view, eating all kinds of food, trying new beers and cocktails, exercising, cruising with friends, and listening to Hawaiian style reggae music.