Utah landscapes and how they shape my illustration style.

Utah’s landscapes are unlike anywhere else in the world. From the red cliffs of Zion to the pink waters of the Great Salt Lake and the alpine peaks of the Wasatch, these natural wonders define not just the region but also my creative voice as an illustrator. As a Salt Lake City artist, I find endless inspiration in the bold colors, dramatic formations, and delicate ecosystems that make Utah so unique.

Landscapes as creative foundation.

Utah offers a spectrum of environments. Deserts, canyons, mountains, and lakes, each with its own mood and rhythm. The vibrant reds and oranges of Bryce Canyon influence the warmth and saturation in my work, while the soft purples and blues of mountain sunsets shape my palettes. These landscapes teach me how to use contrast, depth, and texture to bring energy into digital illustration.

Storytelling through place.

Each illustration I create is more than an image, it’s a story rooted in place. A skier climbing Mount Superior, cyclists riding across Antelope Island, or hikers navigating Zion’s cliffs all speak to how people connect with Utah’s environment. These natural backdrops carry cultural meaning and become part of our shared identity.

Inspiration beyond the trail.

While much of my work highlights outdoor recreation, Utah’s landscapes inspire art in more subtle ways too. Even local cultural spaces are shaped by nature — like Red Butte Garden’s concert venue, where live music takes place beneath the open sky and surrounding foothills. Just as audiences gather under the mountains to enjoy sound and scenery together, my artwork tries to capture that sense of connection between community and environment.

Utah’s landscapes are more than a subject, they are a teacher. They shape my illustration style, my color choices, and my creative process. From desert canyons to alpine valleys, they remind me that art and place are inseparable, and that storytelling through illustration is one way to honor and protect the land we live in.