Elevated Media Co.

Illustration/Design

SA TX

2020 - Current

A set of logo designs. The project of which, slowly morphed into specifically tailored NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens). In this portfolio item, I showcase a logo design set that revolves around the innovative concept of "shifting themes." The main objective behind this project was to create a collection of versatile logos, each capable of seamlessly adapting to various themes and contexts while retaining its unique identity.

Throughout the design process, I collaborated closely with clients and incorporated valuable feedback to ensure that each logo resonates with its intended audience and accurately represents the essence of the brand or project it represents.

Animator / Effects / Video Editor
Kitino (Contract)
Music Industry | Houston, TX | October 2021 - 2023

As an animator, effects artist, and video editor for Kitino, a Houston-based Latin-pop band, I conceptualized and executed a visually striking animated music video for their single "Tu Alma" from the EP "Even in My Dreams."

The video transformed the band members into animated cat characters, inspired by their deceased pets, creating a unique and emotionally resonant visual narrative. I utilized slow-motion techniques and soft lighting to craft a dreamy, romantic atmosphere that complemented the song's soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics. Throughout the production process, I overcame technical challenges in capturing perfect shots and implementing complex visual effects to enhance the video's overall aesthetic. I collaborated closely with the band to ensure the video aligned with their artistic vision and brand identity, skillfully blending 2D animation with live-action footage to depict animated cats exploring vacant venues in a shutdown city, reflecting themes of isolation and hope. By employing advanced video editing techniques, I seamlessly integrated animated elements with real-world backgrounds, creating a cohesive and immersive viewing experience. I managed the entire production process from initial concept to final delivery, ensuring the project met deadlines and budget constraints while maintaining high-quality standards.

 Pixelkeet

SF, CA | 2016 - 2019

Pixelkeet is a Web Design, Web Development, and Content Management company. It is the only design firm in the world with parakeets on staff

Birth of the Vampire Pimp

Character designs/poster designs for a video game concept based on rap artist JB. Contracted by Pixelkeet CA.

WE ARE ENT

Brand Designer / Album Art Director

Music Ind | Boston, NY | 2019

Conceptualized and executed signature logo designs for Boston-based hip-hop collective Mass Aysteria, establishing their visual identity in the competitive East Coast music scene. Created comprehensive artwork for the group's debut album, developing original concepts that visually interpreted their musical style and artistic vision. Designed versatile brand assets adaptable across digital streaming platforms, merchandise, and promotional materials. Collaborated directly with artists to ensure visual elements authentically represented their unique sound while creating memorable imagery that resonated with their target audience and supported their market launch.

Simulated Sun

Animator/Effects/Video Editor

Music | LA, CA | Oct, 2020 - 2021

Designed and animated a full-length music video for Castles from Simulated Sun’s Ignition EP, crafting visuals from concept to final production. Developed dynamic motion graphics, visual effects, and storytelling elements to enhance the song’s narrative and mood. Executed editing, compositing, and post-production to create a polished and engaging animated music video.

Links

Music Video

AWARe Clothing Co.

 Brand Designer / Visual Identity Specialist

CA | 2015

Redesigned brand identity for a mission-driven clothing company, refining logo, typography, and visual elements to enhance brand recognition. Developed cohesive packaging, apparel graphics, and marketing materials aligned with the brand’s ethical message. Created digital assets for web and social media to strengthen online presence and engagement.

Fashion Design Student Project

Toronto, ON, CA | 2013-2014

Developed and showcased a fashion design project, marking a significant milestone in my creative journey.

• Conceptualized and created a comprehensive fashion collection, demonstrating skills in design, creativity, and project management.

• Applied foundational knowledge of fashion principles to craft visually appealing and cohesive designs.

• Utilized this project as a platform to refine my skills and style, setting the stage for future fashion design endeavors.

Early Design Projects
Various Locations | 2013-2014

Engaged in foundational design projects that laid the groundwork for my career in illustration, design, and animation.

Fashion Design Student Project, Toronto, ON, CA (2013): Conceptualized and created a fashion collection, applying principles of design and creativity to develop a cohesive visual style.In two distinct projects, I was tasked with transforming rough sketches of garments into vibrant illustrations. For each project, I received initial design concepts and used my skills in figure drawing and fashion illustration to bring the garments to life. I illustrated models wearing the respective garments, combining the client's design vision with my artistic expertise to create visually appealing and accurate representations. By interpreting and enhancing these rough designs, I produced polished illustrations that effectively showcased the style and fit of each garment, demonstrating my ability to refine and enhance design concepts into engaging and marketable visuals.

King's Gambit

Brand Designer / Visual Artist

Music Ind | Indiana | 2016-2017

Developed distinctive visual identity for five-piece hardcore/metal band from rural Indiana, creating artwork that captured their genre-blending sound and independent ethos. Designed compelling promotional materials including show flyers, merchandise graphics, and social media assets that helped build their regional fanbase. Collaborated directly with band members to translate their musical vision into cohesive visual storytelling across digital platforms including SoundCloud and other streaming services. Created a memorable brand aesthetic that effectively communicated the band's unique positioning within the underground music scene.

Illustrator / Animator / Graphic Designer

2016 - 2021

Boston, Class B & Scrilla H.

For the past 7 years I’ve worked for with this label as illustrator, designer, and animator providing artwork for packaging designs meant for album art, logo designs, clothing designs, animation, and designs for promotional material.

• Album booklet Illustrations

• Album illustration and design work

• Clothing print designs, logos for media campaigns.

• Directed, storyboarded, & animated for music videos.

• Redesigned company logos.

• Social media promo designs E-Jake, “The Great” album design, 2019.

KONTRABAND

Visual Identity Designer / Character Artist

Media / Digital Content Ind | 2015-2018

Conceptualized and executed distinctive logo designs and mascot characters for multiple media outlet startups, including the online publication 8ball magazine. Created original portrait illustrations and brand characters that captured each client's unique voice and editorial direction. Developed comprehensive visual identity systems translating abstract brand concepts into recognizable visual assets optimized for digital platforms. Collaborated with editorial teams to ensure character designs aligned with content strategy while maintaining visual appeal across various media formats and applications.

G&V Swimwear

 Fashion Illustrator / Technical Illustrator

| San Antonio, TX | [2017]

Developed detailed fashion and technical illustrations for a startup swimsuit line, translating design concepts into production-ready prototypes. Created visually compelling sketches and digital renderings to showcase fabric movement, fit, and construction details. Collaborated with the brand to refine designs, ensuring a seamless transition from concept to manufacturing.

Exotic Taste

Graphic Designer / 3D Modeler
| Los Angeles, CA | 2015

Contributed to the development of a startup clothing company, creating initial designs and prototypes before the project was discontinued.

• Designed logos using Adobe Illustrator, developing unique brand identities that aligned with the company's vision and target market.

• Created a tank top prototype using ZBrush, leveraging 3D modeling skills to visualize and refine the garment design.

• Collaborated with the founding team to establish the brand's initial visual direction and product concepts.

• Demonstrated versatility in both 2D graphic design and 3D modeling, showcasing adaptability in the fashion design process.

This experience highlighted my ability to contribute to early-stage fashion startups, combining graphic design expertise with 3D modeling skills to bring initial product concepts to life.

Ablution

by Michael A. O'Riley 

Illustrator for Dystopian Novel
Ablution by Michael A. O'Riley | 2016

Created illustrations for a dystopian novel that explores themes of supernatural threats and human resilience in a world overrun by darkness.

• Developed character illustrations for protagonists Isaiah and Rebeca, as well as the mysterious Guardians and corrupted creatures, bringing the author's vision to life.

• Illustrated key scenes from the narrative, including the initial power outage and subsequent violent massacres, enhancing the reader's immersion in the story's dystopian environment.

• Designed in-book illustrations to complement the text, providing visual cues that heighten the tension and atmosphere of the novel's dark themes.

• Collaborated closely with the author to ensure illustrations accurately represented the unique world and characters described in the book.

This project showcased my ability to create compelling visuals for a complex narrative, blending elements of horror, supernatural, and dystopian genres to support the author's storytelling.

The Book Butler Publishing Company

An Innovative Children's Book Publisher

MD | 2019- Current

BookButler Publishing Company is an independent publisher of children’s books that spark the imagination, encourage reading and discovery, build resilience, and foster positive thinking while remaining fun, enchanting and socially responsible.

• Paige Saves the Day, children’s book illustrations.

• Promotional illustrations.

• Promotional video and animations

• Seasonally themed promotional Illustrations.

https://www.thebookbutler.com

Graphic Designer / Illustrator
US | 2015

Contributed to the launch of an innovative drop shipping business during the e-commerce boom, creating nostalgic and humorous designs for a subscription-based t-shirt service.

Developed a series of parody designs inspired by pre-millennium pop culture references, capitalizing on the "member berry" phenomenon to appeal to a niche market.

Collaborated with the client to establish a unique brand identity for ShirtBox.club, aligning visual elements with the company's concept of delivering curated, nostalgia-driven apparel.

Utilized digital illustration techniques to create engaging and marketable t-shirt designs that resonated with the target audience's sense of nostalgia and humor.

Adapted designs to meet the specific requirements of the drop shipping business model, ensuring compatibility with various printing and fulfillment processes.

Asgard503

Graphic Designer / Apparel Designer
| Portland, OR | May 2016

Developed a line of Norse/Viking-inspired athletic wear for a company supporting local fighters and Jiu Jitsu athletes through sponsorships.

• Conceptualized and designed a collection of print-ready shirt designs, incorporating Norse and Viking themes to create unique and appealing graphics for the brand.

• Created manufacturing-ready workout apparel designs, ensuring the gear met both aesthetic and functional requirements for combat sports athletes.

• Aligned designs with the company's mission to support local fighters and Jiu Jitsu athletes, creating gear that resonated with the target audience.

• Collaborated with the Asgard503 team to ensure designs met sponsorship requirements and effectively represented the brand's values.

This project showcased my ability to blend cultural themes with functional athletic wear design, creating a cohesive brand identity that appealed to both athletes and Norse mythology enthusiasts

Mally Beauty

TPR Holdings LLC

Packaging Illustrator

NY | 2018

Mally Beauty is a makeup company founded by Mally Roncal, former makeup artist of many A-list celebrities. The makeup brand claims to be a long-wearing makeup line for the everyday, working woman. Since 2005, Mally Beauty has created a line of over 1,000 products, with the brand expanding to retailers, such as Ulta Beauty and QVC.

I was to provide themed character Illustrations in the likeness of Mally Roncal and assets to help with product development and marketing.

• Mally Beauty Holiday Makeup Collection “Sleight It”.

FAB Force Five

 
Logo Designer
Jewelery | San Antonio, TX | 2021

Created a custom logo for a friends-based home business, capturing the essence of friendship and entrepreneurship in the local San Antonio community.

• Designed a unique visual identity that reflected the group's dynamic and collaborative spirit, incorporating elements that symbolize friendship and unity.

• Developed a versatile logo suitable for various applications, including social media, business cards, and potential product branding.

• Incorporated local San Antonio themes or motifs to give the logo a distinct regional flavor, connecting it to the city's vibrant culture.

• Collaborated closely with the group members to ensure the logo represented each individual while maintaining a cohesive brand identity.

This project showcased my ability to create a meaningful and personalized logo for a small, friendship-based business venture, blending professionalism with a touch of fun and camaraderie.

nuw-bgng

Apparel Designer / Brand Developer

Fashion / Streetwear Ind | San Antonio, TX | 2015-2018

Spearheaded design direction for ground-level streetwear startup, creating original apparel concepts from initial sketches to production-ready designs. Developed comprehensive brand identity including logo, typography, and distinctive visual language that resonated with the San Antonio urban market. Produced seasonal collections featuring custom graphics, pattern designs, and color palettes while managing production workflows with local manufacturers. Contributed to brand growth through cohesive marketing visuals and establishing recognizable aesthetic that differentiated the company in the competitive Texas streetwear scene."

Awesome Dips

Packaging Illustrator
Food | 2016

• Created eye-catching packaging illustrations for Awesome Dips product line, enhancing brand visibility and consumer appeal on store shelves.

• Collaborated with marketing team to develop illustrations that effectively communicated product flavors and brand identity.

• Utilized Adobe Creative Suite, particularly Illustrator and Photoshop, to produce high-quality, print-ready artwork for various packaging formats.

Amazing Auto Repair & Transmission

Logo Designer / Promotional Illustrator
| Austin, TX | 2017

Designed a bold and dynamic logo to establish a strong visual identity for Amazing Auto Repair, reflecting the shop’s expertise and professionalism. Created custom promotional illustrations and marketing materials to enhance brand recognition and customer engagement. Developed visually compelling assets for print and digital use, ensuring consistency across advertising campaigns and storefront branding.

Dee Inc.

 Logo Designer / Brand Identity Specialist
| 2016

Conceptualized and illustrated a custom logo for Dee Inc., integrating artistic expertise with strategic branding to create a distinct visual identity. Applied digital illustration techniques to develop a refined and impactful design that aligned with the company’s mission. Worked closely with the client through multiple design iterations, ensuring the final logo met their vision and branding objectives.

 Cherub Nation

Concept Artist / Character Illustrator / Brand Designer
| NY, NY | Mar 2018 – Present

Developed concept designs and character illustrations for children’s books and dolls inspired by Anishinaabe folktales, bringing cultural storytelling to life. Designed a distinctive logo and cohesive branding elements to establish a strong visual identity. Created marketing materials to support promotional efforts, ensuring alignment with the brand’s mission of sharing traditional values through engaging narratives and products.

Pilot League Republic

Graphic Designer / Brand Consultant

Fashion / Apparel Ind | Los Angeles, CA | 2015 - 2017

Created compelling visual designs for a startup streetwear brand, developing original graphics for apparel collections and promotional materials. Established brand identity guidelines, designed logo iterations, and produced digital marketing assets. Collaborated with founders to translate brand vision into tangible design elements, contributing to the brand's visual storytelling and market presence in the competitive Los Angeles fashion scene."

Grimey Worldwide

Graphic Designer / Illustrator
Clothing Brand | 2018

• Conceptualized and designed three unique t-shirt and sweatshirt graphics for an emerging streetwear brand, incorporating themes such as urban banking, cannabis culture, and provocative imagery.

• Interpreted complex design briefs to create visually striking concepts that aligned with the brand's edgy, street-oriented aesthetic.

• Demonstrated versatility in design styles, ranging from logo adaptations and realistic illustrations to typography-focused artwork for various apparel items.

Green House, Purple House, Blue House, Choose

Author / Content Developer / Visual Storyteller

Real Estate | NJ | 2017

Authored and developed a children’s book introducing real estate concepts through engaging storytelling and vibrant visuals. Oversaw book design, collaborating with illustrators and designers to enhance reader experience. Applied animation and visual effects to digital promotional materials, creating interactive content to support book marketing efforts.

Studio 18

Artist / Decorative Painter / Muralist / Surface Designer
| NYC Metro Area | Owner

Designed bespoke wallpaper patterns and surface plans for high-end interior design projects, blending artistic craftsmanship with functional aesthetics. Created large-scale murals and decorative finishes, collaborating with designers and architects to enhance residential and commercial spaces. Managed Studio 18’s creative direction, overseeing custom commissions and retail offerings through Etsy and independent platforms.

La Vernia Pool & Spa

 Character Designer / Promotional Illustrator
| TX | [Year]

Developed custom promotional character designs to enhance brand engagement and visual appeal for La Vernia Pool & Spa. Created vibrant, on-brand illustrations tailored for marketing materials, advertisements, and social media campaigns. Ensured character designs aligned with the company’s friendly and professional image, strengthening customer connection and brand recognition.

5 Borough Safety

Logo Designer / Brand Identity Specialist
Safety Training Association | NY, NJ, CT | 2017

Designed a professional logo for a safety training association serving the five boroughs and the broader tri-state area. Developed a visual identity that reinforced trust, professionalism, and industry standards. Ensured versatility across digital and print applications, aligning with the organization’s branding and training materials.

Tuner Cult

 Graphic Designer / Apparel Designer
| 2015–2016

Created original designs for automotive-themed apparel and merchandise, developing graphics from scratch while adhering to brand aesthetics. Executed design projects with quick turnaround times, ensuring high-quality visuals for promotional campaigns and product launches. Collaborated with production teams to refine artwork for optimal print and digital application.

Fifi Leroux

Author / Illustrator / Character Designer

Children’s Book Series on Self-Esteem | TX | 2015–2017

Wrote and illustrated a children’s book series addressing self-esteem and personal growth through engaging narratives and relatable characters. Developed original character designs and vibrant illustrations to enhance storytelling and emotional connection. Created digital assets and promotional visuals to support book marketing and outreach efforts

Platinum Black Pat

Illustrator / Digital Artist

Music Ind | US | 2017

Conceptualized and illustrated custom promotional artwork for emerging music artist, creating a distinctive cartoonified portrait featuring the artist aiming a slingshot at the viewer with integrated YouTube URL. Developed eye-catching visual that effectively captured the artist's persona while driving audience engagement through social media and streaming platforms. Collaborated directly with the artist to translate their creative vision into memorable promotional material that enhanced brand recognition and supported music release strategy."

The Hell Mary's

Graphic Designer / Brand Identity Developer

Music Ind | San Antonio, TX | 2015

Created distinctive logo designs for popular local band, capturing their unique sound and artistic vision through thoughtful visual branding. Led the creative evolution of their logo system, adapting design elements to reflect the band's musical progression while maintaining brand recognition. Collaborated closely with band members to translate their artistic identity into compelling visual assets used across merchandise, album artwork, promotional materials, and social media platforms, enhancing their local market presence."

Revolution Gym

Graphic Designer / Marketing Visual Specialist

Fitness Ind | Alamo Heights, San Antonio, TX | 2016-2017

Created custom illustrated apparel designs and internal marketing materials for boutique fitness facility specializing in functional training and mobility. Developed visually compelling graphics that communicated the gym's unique focus on optimizing body mechanics and range of motion. Designed cohesive visual assets for member recruitment, in-facility signage, and branded merchandise that strengthened community engagement. Collaborated with fitness professionals to translate technical training concepts into accessible visual communications that reinforced the gym's specialized approach in the competitive San Antonio fitness market.

Ms Fit for Society

Illustrator / Event Marketing Designer

Fashion/Fitness Ind | San Francisco, CA | Nov, 2017-2019

Created distinctive fashion illustrations and promotional visuals for high-profile events, developing comprehensive marketing assets deployed across multiple channels including social media, billboard campaigns, and print materials. Designed cohesive event pamphlets featuring custom illustrations that effectively communicated brand messaging and event details to target audiences. Collaborated with marketing team to ensure visual consistency across all promotional touchpoints while adapting designs for various formats and dimensions. Contributed to the brand's distinctive aesthetic in the competitive San Francisco fashion and fitness market through tailored illustrative style that enhanced audience engagement and event attendance.

Tank Gunner Publications

 Illustrator / Book Designer / Layout Specialist
| TX | 2017

Designed and illustrated book covers for Tank Gunner’s award-winning historical fiction and short story collections, ensuring compelling visuals that captured the essence of each narrative. Handled book formatting and layout design, optimizing readability and professional presentation for both print and digital editions. Collaborated closely with the author to maintain visual consistency across multiple publications, supporting branding and market appeal.

Logo Designer
| Houston, TX | Jan 2025

Designed a complex, high-impact logo featuring a bull motif for Toro Technologies, a remote audio and video surveillance company. Developed an "Iron Clad" brand identity that aligned with the company’s security-focused positioning. Delivered comprehensive branding guidelines to ensure consistency across digital and print applications.