Hello. I am Chris, an art director and multidisciplinary designer with over 15 years of creative leadership and hands-on expertise engaging with companies, agencies, and in-house teams. My focus has been on visual communication strategy including the design and implementation of graphic identity systems, publications, posters, and collateral marketing materials. I am a flexible, creative thinker with a broad understanding of design and brand architecture supporting a unique brand vision through print and digital media.
Multidisciplinary approach to design; ability to assess core issues quickly and effectively; a creative leader who possesses strong communication and interpersonal skills.
CSA–Carbone Smolan Agency, New York | Engagements in 2018 and 2019
Integrated into 3 different CSA design teams as a quick-study, collaborative designer capable of stepping into an active project to accelerate work flow. Designed main logotype for Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia PA. Created page layouts, infographics, digital visual design comps, and branding concept presentations for Tapestry and Lincoln Financial.
Siegel+Gale, New York | Engagements in 2004 and 2005
Collaborated with a 6 person creative team to design a comprehensive visual branding system for the Sound & Speed Festival sponsored by Sun Trust Bank. Built page layout structures and streamlined a visual system of graphic charts and graphs for a suite of 6 financial services publications.
Cantley Art+Design, New York | 2004–present
Launched and managed a solo design practice for 15 years with a client roster that included major educational institutions, healthcare organizations, startups, media companies, financial institutions, law firms, and not-for-profits. Liaised with the president’s office at John Jay College on the implementation of a broad rebranding effort featuring 25 visual communications initiatives, including signage, student enrollment packets, publications, and collateral materials. Advised clients on how to leverage the 3 core visual communications pillars, consistency, measurability, and adaptability in conjunction with design strategy. Sourced and directed photographers, copy writers, coders, designers, and print vendors to execute on client projects.
Art Director—New York University, New York | 2001–2004
Engaged directly with dean’s offices within the university’s community of 10 undergraduate and 15 graduate/professional schools. Conceptualized, designed, and managed print production of publications, posters, newsletters, student enrollment packages, course catalogs, event materials, and fund-raising and marketing collateral for university clients.
Art Director/Sr. Designer—USA Weekend Magazine, New York | 1999–2001
Promoted within 12 months due to strong performance and creative impact. Directed an internal creative team of 3-4 full-time and freelance designers. Implemented a data-base driven project tracking system reducing turnaround time by 30% and department overhead by 10%. Facilitated annual budgeting, strategy, and planning meetings with publishing and advertising management staff.
Designer—Rod Dyer Group, Los Angeles | 1994–1996
Developed key-art for major motion picture advertising campaigns, one-sheet posters, and supporting visual branding material.
Art Direction • Graphic Design • Typography • Design Strategy • Layout • Print and Digital Design • Logo Design • Presentations • Interior and Exterior Signage • Photo Editing • Wayfinding Maps • Charts and Graphs • Infographics
Pratt Institute, Brooklyn NY
Masters Degree, communication design
University of the Arts, Philadelphia PA
Bachelor of Fine Arts, Expanded Drawing and Print Media
Adobe CC: InDesign; Illustrator; Photoshop; Premiere, AfterEffects, HTML, CSS, Keynote, PowerPoint, Photography, Illustration, Film/Video editing, Printmaking, Sculpture, Hand Bookbinding, Drawing and Painting
Board Member—SPARK Design Professionals, New York | 2015–present
Engaged in strategic and organizational planning for speaking engagements, networking events, and workshops geared toward fostering better business practices for graphic design business owners. Led the events committee for 3 years and served on the executive committee for 4 years.