FAST FIVE Silverwood's Allen Croswhite designs the world

Meet graphic designer and illustrator Allen Croswhite, who has worked at Silverwood Theme Park for more than 10 years. He has created many aesthetically beautiful, playful and exciting pieces for the park in that time.

Allen was born in California but has lived in Spokane and Post Falls for most of his life. He graduated from Central Valley High School and Spokane Falls Community College. He worked at Hatch Advertising, ATI, BHW1, freelance for Zi Spa, Studio H and Knock Marketing and then found his work home at Silverwood. He is married to Lorinda with whom he has five kids who are mostly grown and independent: Sterling, Seryn, Caden, Christopher and Cyler. Allen loves bass fishing and snowboarding in Idaho. 

1) How long have you been an artist, and what drew you to graphic design?

I've been drawing my entire life. I went to art school at Spokane Falls Community College and discovered graphic design in 1997. I knew that logo design and applying illustration to marketing was for me. I was a medical illustrator for most of the 2000s for Nurse Testing Assessment and later found a niche in casino advertising. Silverwood hired me in 2013 and they told me, out of all the applicants, there was nobody like me. 

2) What helps you be most productive in your creative process?

Being fearless excited about every project. Researching different styles and problem solving. Silverwood has such a craftsmanship and traditional hand painted style. I've watched David A. Smith videos, and inspired by work from Joby Carter and Jeremy Fish.

3) What are a few projects you completed or helped with that you are most proud of?

I think seeing a skateboard deck I designed flying through a skatepark is my favorite. Seeing a giant billboard I've designed, all lit up at night is hard to beat. I illustrated a map for the latest ski addition to Lookout Pass. A diesel engine banner illustration went to a Dubai tradeshow. Pretty cool!

4) What is something people would be surprised to know about you?

I was very, very sick as a child with asthma. I would fake getting well for a trip to the amusement park (Disneyland) with my family. I hope to inspire a child or someone that wants to feel better or find joy here at Silverwood.   

5) How does it feel to walk around Silverwood Theme Park and know people from all over are seeing your handiwork?

I love watching families scan through the Silverwood Park Map the most. I'm very proud of creating logos on rides and roller coasters like Eagle Hunt, SpinCycle, Riptide Racer and Stunt Pilot. Artwork that captures the moment and timeless memories.