I'm a designer for animation and games by trade, and a painter at heart. I love being inspired by the world around me, and traveling to see interesting locations (and taking time to sketch or paint them on paper). I also love seeing artist communities in other countries, and learning what design, illustration, small print and comics scenes look like internationally.

I recently completed a stint working in the tech industry and am looking to decompress this year, regain creative inspiration by living/working away from the computer for a bit, and taking in the day-to-day life in another country.

I'm an early riser, I love trails and hikes (especially if there's something ancient and brilliant to see), and am over partying night scenes (unless if it involves food/markets/a show. Food, along with art, is always a great reason to wander out).

Pourquoi je suis sur Couchsurfing

I've only heard glowing reviews of Couchsurfing from serial traveling friends and family. The best experiences I've ever had abroad were staying with friendly acquaintances in home-stays. I love learning about a place through local eyes, and the stories and experiences hosts have shared with me is invaluable.

As a solo traveler I like to be social, and helpful wherever I'm staying. I'm also somewhat tall (5'11") weight-lifted last year, and am happy to help around with menial tasks while crashing somewhere (ex: yard/house chores, need some help moving 50 lbs + things).

Centres d'intérêt

• dogs
• arts
• illustrations
• cooking
• coffee
• comics
• painting
• drawing
• hiking
• martial arts
• art history
• videogames
• muay thai
• art museums
• painting and drawing
• food and drinks
• trails
• dogs and cats
• hiking in the mountains

Morceaux de musique, films et livres

My playlists are all over the place but they usually involve some electronic + cinematic elements. When I'm traveling I love to hearing new and local sounds. From watching a local band show to hearing vintage pop music playing in a corner store, it all feeds into appreciating the area.

I work in animation, but am open to most movies these days. It's been a while since I've honestly read something... been listening to a lot of podcasts over the last year (MBMBAM/ anything by the McElroy brothers, and opposite of that, True Crime/Journalism expose stories).

Une aventure extraordinaire que j'ai vécue

I've been fortunate enough to work some interesting jobs as an artist/designer over the last decade. (Happy to chat about it, and what life as a working digital artist is like if you're ever interested).

One of which is that I used to be a Doodler at Google, making stylized logo art for their homepage. My favorite Doodle ever made was for the late Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin. It went viral, globally- you should check it out!

Enseignez, apprenez, partagez

I used to teach art at a summer camp, and I love art-making with others. If you're curious about what it's like to go plein air painting, I'm happy to host a day trip. It's really simple, no judgement here when we pick up the paintbrushes.
It's cheesy sounding, but art is for everyone; it's a form of care and self expression we all have, and if there's any way I can help someone feel comfortable to go out and try painting, I'm happy to help! It's all about enjoying the process, moreover than the results.

Ce que j'aimerais partager avec mes hôtes

Besides providing some laid-back company while seeking local adventures? I'm not shy about sharing my scratchy sketchbooks and work, and often there's little stories or memories attached to each piece, from the place portrayed. Ask me sometime if you're interested!

Pays que j'ai visités

Canada, England, France, India, Indonesia, Italy, Morocco, Netherlands, Scotland

Pays dans lesquels j'ai vécu

Indonesia, Scotland, Singapore, United States