After graduating from RISD in 1991, I focused on a series of portrait commissions. During this 3 year period I started by airbrushing the whole composition, then applied a meticulous linear style with colored pencils and liquid acrylics using small brushes. Rendering features and forms with subtle gradations of colors vibrating off one another was my primary exploration, hence the term Line-illism.
Inspired by a process I initiated in Chris Van Alsburg's Pen & Ink Scratchboard class this intricate style evolved.

Kelli, Acrylic and Color Pencil, 24" x 18", 1992 MerrillAndersonArt.com

Kelli, (close-up)

Kelli, (close-up)

Will, Daisy & Alex, Acrylic and Color Pencil, 24" x 42", 1992

Daisy (close-up)

Bryce, Acrylic and Color Pencil, 22" x 36", 1992

Bryce, (close-up)

Taylor, Acrylic and Color Pencil, 20" x 30", 1992 MerrillAndersonArt.com

Taylor, (close-up)

Annupa, Acrylic, 32" x 18", 1993
Annupa, (close-up)

Sarah, Emily and AJ, Acrylic, 24" x 46", 1993

Emily, (close-up)

Diane and Puppy Dogs, Acrylic, 22"x 34", 1994

Lady (closeup)

Mack, Acrylics and Color Pencil, 1993