Botts works in the corporate office/design studio above the Florence, Ala. store. Billy Reid has earned international acclaim and has other shops in New York City, Nashville, Charleston, Dallas and Houston. His clothing is available at upscale stores, like Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman, Bloomingdales and Nordstroms.

Originally, Botts worked on freelance projects with Reid’s staff. “I saw how enjoyable it was to work with everyone there. Being able to work in my field of study, Illustration, also played a major role” in pursuing a position.

Botts’ favorite project for Billy Reid has been the popular Gulf Seafood T-shirts.

Drew’s parents, Mike and Mary Lynn Botts, encouraged him to study design in college. “My grandfather was a cartoonist and graphic artist,” Drew said. “Having his old drafting tools and cartoon slides really inspired me.”

Botts earned a bachelor’s degree in illustration at Savannah College of Art and Design. He was selected into the 16th annual Teatrio International Illustration Exhibition.

In freelance illustration, Botts has designed album covers for musicians and hand lettered logos. His freelancing differs drastically from his designs at Billy Reid.

“It’s simply how I draw. I can match other styles, but when I draw from myself it looks like that. I have many influences as an artist but I try to keep what I create very personal,” he said. Botts combines pencil, computer and handmade textures.

Drew’s sister Rachel is a junior at Auburn University. A graphic design major, Rachel is interning this summer with Lewis Communications in Birmingham.

For information about Billy Reid, visit billyreid.com. To contact Botts, send email to drew@drewbotts.com or visit drewbotts.com.