The Artist Behind the Strategist

Art was a big part of my life long before strategy was. I grew up drawing, writing and exploring art and computer programs before studying copywriting and art direction at OCAD. Somewhere near the end of my time there, I became more interested in the thinking behind the work. Why an idea should exist. What problem it could solve. How it might change what people think, feel or do.

After graduating, I struggled to convince people that an art background belonged in strategy. It took five years, countless certifications and a lot of persistence to get my foot in the door. Along the way, I learned to play down my creative side because I thought it made me seem less rigorous or commercial. But I never stopped making things. When I wasn’t building plans to solve problems, I was writing, painting, making music or experimenting with something new.

Over time, I realized the part of myself I’d been hiding was the thing giving me a different perspective. Art taught me to observe, feel and find meaning in small details. Strategy taught me how to give those instincts direction. They were never separate. They’ve always made each other stronger. Below is a collection of things I’ve made along the way. Take a look around.