I've been a freelance illustrator and graphic designer since 2009. My drawing skills took a significant hit back in 2017 when I injured my shoulders and they have never recovered. In 2026, I look at my portfolio website with no small amount of despair and executive dysfunction. I'm proud of the stuff I've done, I'm not particularly hopeful for major work in the future.
The rising costs of Adobe tools, the precarious nature of what may happen to Affinity after Canva goes public, and the significant learning curve for other software make the footing unstable. Another problem is the international nature of my business. Ninety five percent of my clients are American. Due to the American government being a complete clusterfuck, it is entirely possible that sanctions and embargoes will be put in place if things continue as they are. Furthermore, it is also entirely possible that the USD will cease being a currency I can continue to count on for work.
So I'm getting out of the graphic design game. This, however, means I'll be freeing myself up for more projects both with the sex shop book, retraining myself on illustration, playing with type design, maybe learn Blender among other things.
The major thing, and something I hope you'll stick around for, is board/card/tabletop game development. I have ideas and I've been reading about the industry and I think that since my thesis project of a tabletop game framework based on the principles of universal design, this is an overdue direction for me.
I would like to thank my clients over the years for the projects and lessons. I greatly appreciate your trust, be well. See y'all later!