Like a prince, he was preened to be an artist from his earliest days. He hung out with his exceptionally talented father , a cabinet maker in the wood shop creating sculptures from scraps of wood. I quit my nursing career to be at home for Forest. I had an art studio at our home and worked as a freehand glass engraver and graphic artist . Forest hung out watching my art business flourish.

When Forest was 10 years old he took Best of Show at our county fair with an elegant origami piece. He was commissioned to make more for clients.This was validating. After that he described himself as an artist. He would critique my professional paintings when I needed an intuitive , insightful eye. He drew constantly and his friend structure was built around fellow artists and Saturday night Art Jams! They drew “OLD SKOOL Comics. “He got lots of recognition at school by doing illustrations for teachers and students. Perfecting his Calligraphy made him more marketable. He sold his first painting of a landscape from a gallery at 14 years of age.
In High School , he produced all of the drawings for the Wrestling team apparel,(as well as being a top champion wrestler). making money for the team. In his junior year He was awarded a summer scholarship to the Academy of Art College in San Francisco. I had to be very brave to let my country kid drive my Subaru to the Big City in the name of art for several weeks. It had a huge impact on him. Now he had booked years of drawing everyday., filling books with illustrations.

Forest was awarded the Mother Lode Art Association’s Scholarship for 1996. He used the money well, studying at Columbia Jr. College living summers in Alaska, Yosemite and Washington DC, making art wherever he resided. He graduated with two AA degrees but needed more serious training. He went to Humboldt University and was pleased with his art training there. He earned his BA in Fine Art Graduating in 2005.

Taking a long break he became well known in Humboldt County for his co founding Empire Squared, an impactful art group that took the town by visual storm. He proved his skills in many ways. Earning a reputation for his versatility and craftsmanship, he became an instructor of Illustration at Arcata Art Institute.

Forest is now attending the Academy of Art University in San Francisco. His goal , to be a Professor of Art after fulfilling his freelance career (and hopefully starting a family)

I am very proud of my Son, Forest. He is an accomplished artist …it pours from him and ALWAYS has. As his mother, I am proud to have a son that has had an impact on the world in which he lives. Thank you Forest.
This MOM who loves you!