The Process of Growth

I recently had the opportunity to create the commemorative poster for Working Partnerships USA’s 30th Anniversary, celebrating three decades of economic, labor, and racial justice work in the South Bay.

The artwork centers on a portrait of a young community member, symbolizing the next generation of leadership being built by those who came before. Around this central figure, community members paint and build together, reflecting the collective effort and intergenerational strength that has shaped WPUSA’s history.

Throughout the composition, I included visual elements that represent solidarity and growth — from the scaffolding that ties everyone together, to the local landscape and native plants that root the scene in the South Bay. The symbols within the piece, like the raised fist, megaphone, and sunrise, point toward action, hope, and renewal.

This project was a reminder of how creative work can honor the past while pointing toward the future. I’m grateful to have collaborated with an organization that continues to uplift workers, families, and communities with vision and heart.

Runners World

Illustration I made for Runners World Magazine for an article about “7 Lessons Learned From Running 35 Marathons”.

Best Breakfast Spots

Illustration I made for Minnesota Star Tribune featuring the best breakfast spots in Minneapolis.

Culinary North Stars

Illustration I made for Minnesota Star Tribune for an article highlighting top restaurants in Minneapolis.

SPLC - Learning Democracy

Images I made for Southern Poverty Law Center. They made a new web series of resources that aim to establish foundational knowledge of politics and civic action

OOO

A study in escapism, wanderlust, and desire-a-gram. Summer scrolls are coming: check-ins, cocktails, curated bites, and the fantasy of elsewhere. A snapshot of the season’s digital dreamscape—where burnout meets beach mode.

Time Well Spent

Here’s a new piece about those everyday moments that add up, the ones that don’t always get attention but mean a lot over time. Routines, small breaks, and the tools and objects that become part of the flow. Scroll down to see the process.

More soon.
—Sam

Cover Reveal!

Cover reveal for René Peña-Govea’s upcoming book Estela Undrowning!
It was an honor to collaborate with René in bringing her words to life through imagery. For the cover, she asked to highlight the vibrant, homegrown Chicano culture of San Francisco, a choice I love and one that affects all of us here in the Bay. Locals helping locals. Scroll down to see one of the rough sketches.