When most people grab the computer mouse, it's usually to create such mundane work as hastily hammered e-mails, tranquilizing spreadsheets and endlessly boring business reports that somehow fall short of awe-inspiring.

When illustrator Wes Richards grabs a computer mouse, it's to create beauty. Whatever he lays his hands on becomes a work of art that transcends its function into something more, something special.

Few people can generate excitement by opening a bottle of India ink. Wes does. The room starts buzzing when Wes reaches for a paint brush, because everybody knows something dazzling is in the works. And he always exceeds expectations.

The amazing thing is that he can't help it. Even his pencil doodles are works of art, casually created by the dozen during morning staff meetings.

All that talent, a quietly hilarious sense of sarcasm in a tall, dark, package.

E-mail Wes at wrichards@parkerandpartners.com