I judge design based on how well it works and functions. No matter if it is about the code of a website, the brand strategy or book binding. I aim to understand the big picture. Only this way I am able to create the best possible designs and illustrations that fit into it like a perfect puzzle piece.

This ends with my websites being coded by myself - just like this one right here - and me binding my own books. And if I happen to not have researched a certain idea or technique yet, I usually have a book on my to-read-pile or an interesting blog article in my favorites already.

I illustrate with plenty of techniques. Each of them has something special going for it. My favorite is working digitally on my computer with a graphic tablet, however. With soon reaching 20 years of experience in digital illustration, every brush stroke is hitting the mark. But I like to use acrylics and water colors as well.

Both techniques help me find fresh perspectives for my drawings again and again. The calming movement of a traditional brush channels my inner Zen just perfectly.

I love cats. They're my muse. Don't get mad, dear dog owners! Cats are simply special to me. That's why I took them for my logo and I don't get tired of illustrating them again and again.

I call two cats part of my family: Finya and Findus, two Norwegian forest cats. Their calm and loyal nature spoke to me. They bring plenty of adventures, entertainment and hours filled with tender snuggles into my home.

(Also, yes, this is a cat armchair, in cat-size for cats!)