Multi-Talented Creative with expertise in creating surface pattern designs & repeat patterns for consumer products. She closely follows trends in fashion and, in addition, has the innate ability to understand the end consumer which translates into successful product sell-through. She is purposeful and innovative as a visual problem solver.
TECHNICAL PROFICIENCY
Adobe Photoshop
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe InDesign
Strong Painting Skills
Strong Sketching Skills
Adobe Acrobat Professional
Mac & PC Platforms
PORTFOLIO/BLOG
http://www.ifneedb.com/
CAREER DEVELOPMENT
Sassapress LLC
2000 - Present
Surface/Textile Designer
Creates surface designs and repeat patterns for the fashion, home
goods, gift, crafting and textile industries. Develops collections: scans, cleans up, recolors and creates repeats for prints. Develops mood and trend boards. Creates surface textures for the video game industry. Develops prints from concept to end product. Manages day-to-day administrative duties such as billing, website updating, and marketing strategy. Expert level of proficiency in Photoshop & Illustrator.
- Creates + sells printed designs for hoop dancers at HoopPretty.com
- Featured designer of prints at Alluminare.com, producer of
custom lighting and accessories for home and commercial projects.
- Represented by Juna Studio (NYC) in US, Canada and Mexico
markets in the fabric, gift and home goods industries.
- Prints and sells own fabric designs
- Keeps blog at www.ifneedb.com – providing quality tutorials, trend information + inspiration
Kohl's Corporation (via Aquent)
Menomonee Falls, WI * 2009
Consultant - Graphic Design
Recruited to help the Innovations Team with conceptualizing for
new brands, designing promotional materials, and setting
aesthetic look for the retail environment.
- Played an influential role in bringing new vision to the look
of Kohl's
Jockey International (via Aquent)
Kenosha, WI * 2008 - 2009
Consultant - Art Direction/Graphic Design
Worked in a conceptual capacity on a variety of high-profile
projects including catalogs, promotional printed materials,
packaging and company websites. Helped direct photo shoots on-location and in-studio for shooting garments on-figure and as lay downs. Directed and gave guidance to graphic interns. She excelled and won personal acclaim from principals and colleagues in this dynamic and fast-paced atmosphere. Frequently presented work to CEO, CFO, and VP's.
- High-volume and high-quality work created under very tight
deadlines.
- Sales rose significantly after revamping catalogs for two
divisions of the company - this, during severe economic downturn.
Hanson Dodge Creative
Milwaukee, WI * 2007 - 2008
Senior Graphic Designer/Illustrator
Developed surface designs for trend-forward memory craft products and packaging materials. Conceptualized surface designs and packaging for memory craft and wall decor industries. Kept current with trends in interior design and the juniors/youth market. Worked closely with clients. Visually dialogued remotely by using strong
sketching skills.
- Developed trend-forward products with high sell-through.
- Established trusting relationships with clients, superiors, and
peers.
Duni/Innoware Paper, LLC
Menomonee Falls, WI * 2002 - 2006
Graphic Designer/Illustrator
Created surface designs for paper tabletop partyware and promotional materials. Studied and incorporated upcoming trends. Created illustrations. Developed products with licensed art. Manipulated art to achieve pleasing design layouts. Calibrated art for color correctness. Prepared designs for production. Performed press checks. Coordinated with print house to meet all project requirements.
- Managed production of million-dollar product orders under very
tight deadlines.
- Rated consistently within the Top 3 out of 45 designs (on
average, per season) in consumer reviews.
EDUCATIONAL ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Bachelor of Fine Art, Illustration, Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design, 2000 (Dean's List)
Earned a 4-year scholarship
Continuing Education Classes: InDesign, Flash
PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITIES/AFFILIATIONS
- AIGA
- MIAD Alumni
- CHA and SURTEX Trade Shows - attended several times to purchase
art and research trends
- Color Association of America, New York City - consulted with this
color forecasting service
- Promostyl, New York City - consulted with this international
lifestyle, design and trends service
- My blog, which explores design finds and my adventures in
design: http://www.ifneedb.com
- Highly active in the surface print design online community, posting regularly to blogs and giving feedback
- Please login to LinkedIn for more testimonials:
http://www.linkedin.com/in/bignatiev
1 hour ago