Fullerton College Art Department

This is the first of many student spotlights, and I couldn’t think of a better student to kick things off with than Mack. She’s an exceptional talent—someone whose natural ability is matched only by her drive to grow and refine her craft. Whether it’s a finished piece in the classroom or a spontaneous sketch out in the field, Mack consistently blows me away. She’s fearless.I’ve said it before: if I had her skills at her age, my head wouldn’t fit through the door. She’s producing work at a professional level, and that’s exactly the standard we aim for.Students like Mack leave a lasting impact—not just on the program, but on the classroom culture itself. She inspires her peers, offers thoughtful feedback, helps others with their projects, and sets the tone for what it means to be a great student colleague. I always feel the void when students like her move on.Mack has even given talks in my class, sharing her process and insights with others. Her presence elevates everything.Our illustration program is rooted in design thinking—conceptual, solution-driven work. Strong illustration skills are foundational for any designer, whether you’re pursuing animation, industrial design, 3D modeling, or beyond. You simply can’t create compelling visual work without solid design fundamentals.I’m incredibly proud of the level of consistently great work our students are producing. They’ve built a supportive, honest community where critique is constructive and growth is constant. We’ve now also established a pipeline to top-tier schools.Thank you, Mack, for inspiring your classmates—and me.

I’m teaching this class in the fall. This class focuses on paint handling, covering gouache, watercolor, acrylic, and occasionally some oil techniques, as well as mixed media.
The goal being an understanding of how to mix technique and media. I’m adding some of my favorite illustration techniques this term. If you are in my illustration class, these two complement each other well.
I also believe if you don’t have some understanding of traditional illustration/painting, moving into digital isn’t usually successful.
I try to do this class every few terms.
Also, this is “Sketching for Animators and Illustrators-Traditional Media.” Don’t confuse this with my Saturday class which is sketching based.

Like Graphic Design AND History? Then take GRFX 151 F History of Graphic Design this Fall! Sign up here: https://www.fullcoll.edu/schedule/