How did you become a designer/artist?

I've been drawing since I was first able to pick up a crayon, so I guess the artistic bent is just something that's always been there. In the early '90s, after having spent some time in the banking and retail industries, I made a conscious choice to get into art school and refine my raw talent. Graphic design and particularly logo design were interests that I'd had from an early age. I was designing business cards and logos for people while still in high school; that was before computer-aided design, mind you. In art school I was able to develop and expand my skill set. It really opened my eyes for the first time. The concepts of color, composition, balance and typography were made brilliantly clear, and I re-trained myself to use all of these new insights to make myself a better designer.

What are you doing now?

I'm currently working as a freelance designer out of my home studio, Jeff Andrews Design. I work primarily with small businesses and organizations in developing their logo and brand identity. It's challenging yet incredibly fulfilling work. I also subcontract my services to other designers and firms looking for a fresh perspective. I've recently designed brochures, posters, flyers, menus and advertising for some great design firms in this way.

Where are you from originally?

I was born in Roseburg, Oregon, which is coincidentally where I'm currently living after having moved away in the sixth grade. After 25 years, I moved back here last year when my fiancee was transferred with her job. I have yet to run into someone I knew from grade school, though, which is a bit of a let-down frankly!

What are your plans for the future?

My immediate plans, personally, are to get married in September and start a family. Professionally speaking, I hope to continue developing my business as well as develop my skills as a graphic designer. There are still a lot of things to learn, and my intentions are to get as good as I can. I like to challenge myself. I have no lofty notions of being the best designer on the planet; there are a lot of extremely talented designers out there much better than me. But I do want to be the best designer I can be, and that means constantly pushing myself to get better. I'd also love to eventually push myself in some new directions with regards to creativity. For instance, I'd love one day to write and illustrate a children's book.

Which American artist inspires you most?

Design-wise, I'm inspired by people like Saul Bass, Paul Rand, Milton Glaser, Seymour Chwast, and Herb Lubalin. In art school I was prompted to study the work of these amazing designers who really set the bar for the contemporary designers of today. Their influence on my work and design perspective is monumental.

What unlocks your creativity?

The world around me sparks my creative juices. If I'm feeling stifled, I'll get out of the office, go for a walk, listen to music, spend a few hours in a good bookstore or just spend quality time with my fiancee and family.