Artists are typically a curious lot, serving as trendsetters and the creative force of this world.

One trait that artists share is they are fearless in regards to branching out, broadening their horizons or blazing new trails.

Nick Cochran’s new business in Enumclaw, The Dirty Brush, deals with customized artwork and graphic design and exemplifies this artisan’s persona. Cochran, who grew up in Enumclaw and graduated from Enumclaw High in 1998, offers services ranging from embroidery, business cards and vehicle lettering to signs, flyers and image branding.

Cochran graduated in fine arts from Washington State University and professes that it was that collegiate setting, where the glistening achievement of his 29-year-old artistic life took place. WSU was looking to commission an artist to paint a 9-foot by 90-foot mural around the four walls of a playground area and Cochran landed the gig.

“It was an ocean theme with whales and other sea creatures and plants. I was really pleased with the way it turned out and the university must have liked too, because I even received some extra funding for doing it,” Cochran said. “When you are a poor student and a starving artist as well, any extra funding is a welcomed surprise.”

Cochran is working out of a studio/garage but maintains that as his business grows so will his place of employment. The aspiring graphic artist is not afraid of the competition.

“Times are hard right now and businesses are struggling to keep their heads above water. People want the most they can get for their money and because of the fact that my overhead is extremely low, I can charge less for my services,” he said.

The initial response to Cochran’s offering has been positive.

“I haven’t had one unhappy client yet, because I don’t sleep at night if my customer isn’t unconditionally delighted,” he said. “I did this CD cover for a heavy metal band in Seattle called Basic Survival Mode and spent many hours designing it. They loved it, because they felt that it captured their essence.”

Cochran can be reached at either 253-376-0642 or design@dirtybrush.net.

Reach John Leggett at jleggett@courierherald.com or 360-802-8207.