RAV

What inspires you?

I've always a been a maker, from when I was a kid creating models and products in my free time. I always look at nature’s cues and the unique perspectives it shows us. When I make things with a human-centric focus, I aim to assist people in various ways—emotionally, physically, mechanically, and aesthetically.

 

What's your educational background? 

I have a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design from the University of the the Arts in Philadelphia and a degree in Fine Arts from Mercer County College. Coupled with my mechanical design-engineering experiences, I feel well-suited to attack many kinds of challenges in service of the best product and experience for the end user. 

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How does being born in The Netherlands inform your work?

While my family moved to the east coast when I was young, I spent most of my summers in The Netherlands, often on my grandfather's farm. I visit whenever I can and love the language and industrious thinking there. I became fascinated with scale model making after my first trip to Madurodam, the miniature city of The Netherlands, where buildings, boats, planes and trains inspire awe. I knew at that time, I wanted to create functional scale models. 

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What other experiences have shaped how you think and work? 

While studying Industrial Design, I was employed by the US Army Reserves in a Transportation Battalion to gain discipline and understanding of their needs. I also worked at car dealerships. Both these experiences taught me about the need for continuous product improvements. This helped launch my career with automotive suppliers and various vehicle manufacturers. 

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What are you most passionate about? 

I really like helping people feel better and be more comfortable. I recently designed a standing desk platform which gives people an affordable way to improve their postures. Lots of happy customers! Another recent project brought out my farm roots; it was the conversion of a grassy knoll in our backyard into a food garden for my family. I also just converted our greenhouse to a solar-powered art studio using lots of reclaimed materials. I love considering environmental solutions. As for my studio, I can't wait to spent more time in there making models and painting what nature inspires.