Many people can spot good design. But that doesn’t mean they can create it. I might be able to tell the difference between a Junior High Orchestra’s performance of Canon in D and a Philharmonic’s presentation of the Rite of Spring, but that doesn’t mean I could pick up a violin and play Stravinsky.

A Creative Director needs chops. They should be able to draw with the best of them and have an insatiable desire to create. The should be able to sketch an idea clearly, have ninja-like photoshop skills, talk F-stops and lighting with photographers and more wild ideas than seems reasonable.

                 

On top of that, it’s invaluable to have a leader in the Creative Department who isn’t offended when the design isn’t quite correct. For many, having someone critique their designs feels like a personal attack. A thick skin and the ability to help others catch a creative vision are just as important as the ability to crank out consistent, compelling designs.

 

(Imagery above is a sampling of my illustration work and public art that covers thousands of installed square feet installed in cities across the West.)