Meet The Maker: Casey Drake

We are excited to introduce you to Casey Drake, a Veer artist and author based in Orlando. She weaves together a practice rooted in curiosity, community, and creativity. From experimenting across mediums to writing, illustrating, and self-publishing a children’s book through a fully funded Kickstarter, their work is driven by a love of turning ideas into something tangible and shareable. Inspired daily by their children and supported by an enthusiastic local arts community, their creative process embraces a bit of chaos—always guided by authenticity, sustainability, and a genuine joy for making.

Are you a native Floridian? Where did you grow up?

While not technically native, I’ve lived in Central Florida for over half of my life. I’ve moved away and come back a few times throughout my life. I spent my early childhood years in Orlando before spending a decade in Phoenix, Arizona. I later returned to Orlando after my time in the United States Peace Corps in 2012.

Tell us a little about yourself. What do you make? What led you down the path of authorship? 

I have always been interested in experimenting with a variety of mediums in my artistic practice. However, learning the process of writing, editing, and illustrating a book was something I had always wanted to accomplish. In 2020 I decided to begin this project, and with a fully funded Kickstarter campaign I was able to self publish my first children’s book.

What do you like most about what you do?

I love being able to create something tangible and sharable from the ideas in my mind. 

How many hours a week do you spend creating? How would you describe your work style? 

I spend around 20 hours a week actively creating. My work style is best described as chaotic, although I’m working towards controlled chaos. 

What inspires you in your day to day?

My children inspire me daily. My daughter was the inspiration for Why in my book, and they challenge and inspire me daily to become a better artist.

What other hobbies, interests or day jobs keep you busy when you’re not illustrating or writing?

I enjoy experimenting with new and unusual materials in my work. Specifically when figuring out how to incorporate sustainable materials into my artistic practice.

Are there any artistic mediums that you have not worked with but would like to try and why?

I would love to try papermaking! I have done very small attempts but am working through some books on how to create paper from food waste and other sustainable materials.

What have you learned about yourself from creating your brand?  

I’ve learned so much about myself through this process, although it can be incredibly difficult to refine and define a brand. I’ve learned that authenticity is essential for my own creative practice and brand image. I’ve identified the guiding principles and values of my brand which allows me to keep the creative process free and authentic while maintaining a consistent brand identity.

How has your community in Orlando supported you or given you inspiration?

The Orlando community has always surprised me with its warmth and love of creative expression. When I began drawing with chalk on my sidewalk in 2020, neighbors and community members would come from miles around to support me. Without that motivation and sense of community, I would not be where I am today.

Dogs or cats?  

All animals, but definitely cats!

Random fact about yourself?

I was once pitched as a host for a chalk art competition show on Nickelodeon. (They did not pick up the show, but it was still exciting!)

What does the word “veer” mean to you? 

Veer means to stray from the well-worn path. As artists and creators, we are familiar with the fear and exhilaration that comes with veering from the expected.