I am an illustrator/graphic artist based out of Minnesota. Yes, it's cold. In the winter at least. Can't complain though, it's a great place to live. I worked as a graphic designer for many years, which eventually led into illustration. I have worked for the past 5 years or so as an illustrator for an apparel company, mostly working for large outdoor companies. I have grown a lot an artist in that time, thanks to the help of my trusty Cintiq! As an artist, I think you always have to be learning and growing... it is a demanding field with a lot of great artists out there and so much to learn. Thankfully I enjoy that aspect of it, and look forward to continuing to get better every day as an artist.