David O'Keefe at age 10 in a promotional photograph for Maas Brothers, where he began his career as a professional illustrator.

When asked by his high school guidance counselor in the tenth grade what career he would like to pursue upon graduation, David O’Keefe simply replied, “artist.”

“ That’s great, but what do you want to do for a career?” the counselor implored.

The following year, same scenario. Again David answered the counselor’s question: “I want to be an artist.” The counselor rolled his eyes and suggested perhaps he should consider insurance sales or drafting.

Senior year, when called to the same counselor’s office for advising, David was prepared to answer the inevitable question. “ So do you still want to be an artist? ” the exasperated counselor asked.

“ No, I want to be a guidance counselor.” He was sent back to class and not bothered about the matter again.”

Since that time, O’Keefe has lived with a sketchbook in his hand. His sardonic caricatures and humorous illustrations have appeared on the covers of Sports Illustrated, Sports Illustrated for Kids, Mad Magazine, The Village Voice and within the pages of TIME.

His advertising clients include Coca-Cola, WaffleHouse, Fuji and SunCom Communications.

O’Keefe’s work has won numerous awards from such organizations as The Society of Illustrators (NY and LA), American Illustration, Communication Arts, National Headliner Awards, Dimensional Illustrators, Art Director’s Club of NYC, and the Society of News Design.

David O’Keefe loves the profession he’s chosen. He just wants to thank his guidance counselor for helping him clarify his choice.

He considers himself blessed to pursue his dream and finds great joy in his work and in his family. O'Keefe currently resides in the Tampa Bay Area with his wife, Janice and their four children.