Bio
Talking about my creative work is still as challenging as it was 40 years ago. But one thing has become clear over the decades - I cover a lot of creative territory. Whether it’s a commissioned project with lots of parameters, or a piece of fine art with no deadline and no client, it’s all about finding solutions. I enjoy working with other design professionals and with clients to provide answers to their creative needs.
Decades ago I was apologetic for being a “generalist” who sought the adventure of experimenting in different genres. Now I know that it is a gift. I look forward to using all of the skills that I’ve collected along the way, and continuing to traverse more of that creative territory - Illustration, and product, graphic, and environmental design, fine art, and teaching.
Murals & Installations
My murals combine several passions - architecture and sense of space, and understanding the cultural and visual needs and tastes of each client. The Vermont State Office Complex (former Vermont State Hospital) was the most challenging and satisfying mural project of all.
Illustration
I’ve illustrated a few books along the way - My favorite was Treasure Town, written by my brother, Vermont author Doug Wilhelm. I especially love working with humor and for children and young readers.
Toy Design
Toy design for pets through Fat Cat and FUZZU. With a small team, I designed and collaborated on product, packaging, online promotions, trade show booths…anything we needed. All of it cultivated the brand — colorful and whimsical and extroverted.
Curating Art
Curating art - I was commissioned by NRG Systems to produce several permanent art installations in their Vermont headquarters. I also collected and curated a large collection of fine art, placed in and around those buildings. Sub-collections of this large body of work are now on loan to various organizations around Vermont.
Ben & Jerry's
Ben & Jerry’s - My twelve years as a designer for Ben & Jerry’s taught me a great deal about working with a team, and about branding, as well as applying that brand to a broad variety of environments and products. I think we nailed it.
Boot Camp
Boot Camp - My first professional decade in and around New York City, I illustrated for various newspapers and King Features Syndicate, painted murals and also taught. I attended School of Visual Art and the Art Students League nights and weekends.