When Lael entered college, he planned on becoming a graphic designer. After several design assignments were finished using his own illustrations and very little type, his teachers suggested he transfer to the illustration department. Lael thinks this was some of the best advice he was ever given. Lael graduated with a BFA in Illustration in 1993. After graduation, he got a job working as an in-house illustrator for a publishing company doing book cover illustrations. In a few years and after finishing more than 50 book covers, he left the small publisher and started freelancing full time. He has worked for Disney as a Concept artist and has illustrated for a verity of companies worldwide. Lael loves to draw and paint and is happiest when creating.