My name is Michael Ramirez and I am a graduate of The Art Institute of California. I currently hold a B.A. in Media Arts & Animation. With a primary focus on background design, I hold a variety of skills in illustration. I am focused on this because I love creating environments from my imagination to the 2D world. There is nothing more exciting than making my thoughts come to life. When I was younger I got many of my influences from action and horror movies, which can be seen in my artwork. I have recently been expanding my creativity by adopting new styles. Using perspective and storytelling skills, I can create backgrounds that that fit the characters while also intriguing the viewer.I am currently a tattoo apprentice, complete freelance projects for clients, and run an online clothing business. This allows me to gain experience in many different areas while also showing that I can handle a full work load.Throughout my academic career I have advanced my aptitude in programs such as, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, After Effects, Maya, Mud box, Toon Boom, and Flash, along with being very skilled in traditional mediums of art. With my passion and these programs I plan to create incredible pieces of art that will obtain me a great career in the industry doing background designs or forms of concept art. Thank you for your time,