Today we’d like to introduce you to Joah Merrifield.
Hi Joah, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
When my mother coached contestants for pageants in St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands—where I was born and raised—I often attended the shows and was captivated by the fashion and imaginative designs showcased on stage. That early exposure sparked my passion for drawing at a very young age. During my junior year at Charlotte Amalie High School, I enrolled in a sewing course through my home economics class. What started as a requirement quickly became a passion. I developed a deep appreciation for the intricacies of stitching, the variety of fabrics and patterns, and the interplay of colors and textures. One of my proudest achievements came that same year, when—with the guidance of my sewing teacher—I designed and created nine full outfits made entirely of newspaper for our 2016 junior class show. Unfortunately, just before I completed high school, I was involved in a diving accident that left me temporarily paralyzed from the neck down. I received care at Jackson Memorial Hospital, where I faced one of the most challenging moments of my life. Despite feeling the urge to give up, my parents gave me the strength and encouragement I needed to keep going.
Through years of physical therapy and resilience, I was able to recover and ultimately walk across the stage to receive my high school diploma. In 2017, I discovered a deeper interest in fashion illustration—a natural progression of my love for drawing and my desire to merge art with fashion. After years of refining my craft, I’ve been able to provide fashion illustration services for local, regional, and international pageants, and collaborate with fashion designers throughout the Caribbean.
After Hurricanes Irma and Maria, I relocated to Orlando, Florida, to pursue higher education. In 2018, I enrolled at the University of Central Florida and graduated in 2022 with a Bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences. Although I now work within the health sciences field, I continue to pursue fashion illustration with passion and dedication. Among my most memorable projects are my designs for the national costumes of Miss Universe US Virgin Islands in 2019 and 2024, and Miss Earth US Virgin Islands in 2023.
My ultimate goal is to continue growing as a fashion illustrator and eventually design for a major brand in the near future.”
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
A couple of significant obstacles I’ve faced began with a diving accident in the summer of 2015, shortly after my junior year of high school. As a result, I was temporarily paralyzed and underwent seven and a half months of intensive physical therapy before I regained any movement in my legs and hands. Through perseverance and faith, I reached the point where I could walk with a walker and continue drawing with my hands. Many individuals with this type of injury never regain movement below the neck, so I am truly grateful to God for how far I’ve come.
Another challenge came after Hurricane Irma, when my mother and I had to urgently relocate to Orlando. It was my first time experiencing a hurricane of that magnitude, and the transition was extremely traumatic. Starting over in a new city wasn’t easy, and my mom and I faced a tough beginning—but through determination and support, we overcame it.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
⸻
What I do—and specialize in—is fashion illustration. I’m best known for illustrating gowns and cultural costumes for local, national, and international pageants. I also create detailed illustrations for prom and wedding gowns. Every piece I draw is a reflection of my pride and passion, and I stand behind everything I produce. What truly sets me apart is my vivid imagination, which allows me to bring bold and unconventional concepts to life. My costume designs, in particular, are among my most creative and celebrated works.
What matters most to you?
What matters most to me is family. My mother, father, brother, and sister have always been my biggest cheerleaders. They support everything I do and take great pride in both me and my work.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/merrij_illustrator?igsh=ejVzeGlmdW92ajlv&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19bvUpnMNF/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/jmusikman?igsh=MWxxbW0ycTU5ZjJ5bg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Image Credits
Royal Focus Photography
Instagram: @royalfocus_
