About

I’m an independent artist and painter. My work focuses on social observation, identity and human conflict. I want to increase participation in the world. I’m interested in looking at what is most difficult, and helping people understand and look for themselves. Painting works across a spectrum of continuums from observation to communication, as well as decoration to meaning. The processes of printmaking, textiles and graffiti influence my approach to painting. Investigative journalism, war photography and cinematography inspire my compositions and subject matter. I’m interested in what’s behind what we see and the signs, symbols and metaphors of identity.

“I work in the space between journalism and science fiction, between reflection and imagination.”

I majored in Fiber at the Kansas City Art Institute, with additional studies in painting and photography. My studio is located in Seattle, Washington, USA. Select shows include Peter Miller in Seattle and Tom Deathridge in Kansas City. The Peacekeeping Project is an ongoing project, which looks at conflict, war and power. 

“What we design and build reflects our nature and our desires.”

“I want to empower critical and creative thinking.” 

Shows & Art Resume

American, b. 1971, Oklahoma, based in Seattle, Washington

Selected Solo Shows

2018 Peter Miller, Seattle, Washington, Peacekeeping
2013 Artist's open studio, Seattle, Washington, The Building Fall Open Studios
2012 Artist's open studio, Seattle, Washington, Look+Listen
2012 Leedy-Voulkos Art Center, Kansas City, Missouri, LX-12
2009 Artist's open studio, Seattle, Washington, West Seattle Art Walk
2003 MoMO Gallery, Kansas City, Missouri, Fluff
2001 Artist's open studio, Kansas City, Missouri
1995 Medina's Gallery, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Collapsed Space

Selected group shows

2024 JDS Gallery, Seattle, Washington, Fire and Brimstone
2018 Seattle Artist League, Seattle, Washington, Big League Show
2002 The Late Show Gallery, Kansas City, Missouri, Eternal-Glorious
2002 The Late Show Gallery, Kansas City, Missouri, Road Kill
2002 MoMO Gallery, Kansas City, Missouri, Learning to Swim
1999 The Late Show Gallery, Kansas City, Missouri, Your Lyin', Cheatin', Bleedin' Heart
1998 1331 Union Gallery, Kansas City, Missouri, Post Serial
1997 The Madrid Theatre, Kansas City, Missouri, Greetings From The Madrid
1997 The Zone Gallery, Kansas City, Missouri, Fiber Substitute

Reviews, publications and interviews

Evergreen Review, Hostile Witness Spring Summer 2024, New York, NY, USA

PublicDisplay.Art Hostile Witness November 2023, Seattle, Washington, USA

Beholder 2. 2019, Seattle, Washington, USA

Hush-Kit, Helicopter as warrior, hero and villain: an interview with artist Lad Decker May 2018, England, UK

Trafton, Robin. It's Not Fluff: Lad show illuminates war Kansas City Star May 30, 2003, Kansas City, Missouri, USA

Kaufmann, Gina. This week’s best events. The Pitch May 22, 2003, Kansas City, Missouri, USA

Walz, Cara. Really red and larger than life The Pitch May 20, 2003, Kansas City, Missouri, USA

Education

1994 Kansas City Art Institute, Kansas City, Missouri, Bachelor of Fine Arts
1989 Marie Walsh Sharpe Art Foundation

Art and design

Artists often teach and work as designers to extend their function as artists in the community. In addition to my work as an artist, I lead teams that research and design experiences for all types of human-computer interactions. For over 25 years I've worked with some of the world's most recognized brands and organizations, including great artists, performers, and theaters.  

Design is a process of understanding, translation, decision-making, and execution. The world of business benefits from strong relationships with creative people. I encourage artists to work with designers, architects, and entrepreneurs to create experiences that enhance our lives. 

Please see my UX research and design resume for more information.

In The Studio