The Commercial Artist

That was the phrase which peaked my interest back in high school. Make art, make a living. Today there are many buzz-worthy titles inside the creative business but my first exposure to the profession was presented as a 'trade school' program. I drew designs all over my notebooks and clothing when I was young so looking back now, it was destined to be. Art classes were always my favorite place to work --- drawing, painting, sculpting --- but this trade school program had other tools and "advanced" techniques to offer... so for my senior year I was off to trade school where I would learn more about being a "commercial" artist.

When I was growing up magazines were my window to a world I didn't see at home. And I blazed through them --- following my favorite bands, pro skateboarders, and keeping up with the latest trends. Advertising was exciting and familiar and I thought I could definitely find a job in the business. When I graduated from high school I thought a college with a good reputation for what I knew as commercial art would suit me. I chose a small, 2 year private school called Cazenovia College outside of Syracuse NY. The course work focused mainly on advertising design with a strong emphasis on rendering along with fundamental typesetting and production skills. Later I would transfer to Buffalo State where I would refine my skills in graphic design, marketing communications, conceptual development, and applied technology.

After college I was always designing CD artwork and posters for musician friends in bands and local clubs. I also freelanced with a local alternative press newspaper while working for a few clients. After about a year or so, I hooked up with a small ad firm and my new education in advertising began. I became more proficient with a Mac and early Adobe programs as well as the printing business and a new medium called the World Wide Web. However, working with agency clients was the real challenge --- crafting useful solutions to support their business strategy and forging new relationships --- I was up for it and it was all very inspiring. That job really gave me the opportunity to grow from being a graphic designer into a true professional in the business with "chops".

As I continued in my career I found myself on the "client" side of the creative business --- subsequently in-house marketing teams of technology-based companies --- where I gained valuable hands-on experience in product development, strategic marketing, corporate branding as well as being part of a larger network of minds. I excelled in the much broader perspective of how graphic design and creative messaging can be integral part of reaching people. I found a nitch here for the last 10 years and I have become a strong contributor to the success of various company objectives. And I'm very proud of that success and offering ideas and support to the people I work with.

My experiences in the creative business has been a success working for large and small companies in communications and in music technology industries. Having the experience and life education to continue to create 'commercial art' through ad campaigns and product launches has allowed me to live a comfortable life and raise a family. Commercial Art has been, and continues to be, a gratifying and rewarding profession.

Thanks for reading,
Anthony