My artwork derives from my passion and involvement in the metal subculture in Iowa. I use graphic design, photography, and video to promote and advertise the community which can often get overshadowed by larger scenes and more established bands. Historically, underground metal has been promoted mainly through physical media, printed flyers, handbills, and word of mouth. In addition to these methods, I advertise through social media platforms to reach a wider audience. 

By using graphic design I create ephemera that serves as an advertising platform as well as archival documentation. Stylistically, I combine photography, drawings, and collage, with band logos to create concert posters. I am inspired by the artists of the metal subculture such as Daniel Porta, Kevin O’Bryant, Mark Riddick, and Ross Halfin, as well as the local artist Nightmare Imagery.  In addition to graphic design, I make video work which serves as a documentation of a live performance and the culture surrounding it. I am inspired by the  metal music videos and concert films from the 1980s and 1990s by directors such as Wayne Isham, Penelope Spheeris, and Micheal Soloman. The shows I capture inform the viewer of the energy of a live performance, as well as the breadth and variety of the metal scene. The shows can take place anywhere from basements to theaters, so I use a variety of camera setups and editing styles to match the atmosphere of the venue. 

By promoting the metal scene through my art I hope to entice the viewer to become a supporter of the local metal scene. I want to inform people about shows and let them know about bands, with the goal of growing the community.