Jason Cruz
Senior Graphic Designer/Illustrator · J Cruz Studios
Long Beach, CA
In My Own Words
<p>With 20 plus years of experience in the surf, skate, action sports, and music industries, I have had a broad range of roles within some of the world's top leading brands. I feel that embracing diversification and having a continual desire to grow, has been critical to my success as an artist. Whether it be typography, branding, product design, or illustration, I use a combination of traditional and digital methods to create timeless and trend right graphics. My work has been used on thousands of t-shirts, album covers, event posters, marketing collaterals, in-store POP, and packaging for brands around the world. I have helped dozens of brands grow their audience and increase yearly profits. I am seeking a position that affords me the opportunity to use my past experiences to create compelling graphics, while also growing category margins for the brand.</p>
Work Experience
Freelance Art Director/Senior Designer
J Cruz Studios2006 – Present
* Creating graphics, illustrations, prints and logos for use on products, marketing collateral, in-store P.O.P, and packaging. * Executing client objectives by leveraging expertise in typography, iconography, color theory, and digital design. * Communicating creative strategy and notes through both in-person and remote team meetings. * Managing accounts, designers and projects, all while successfully working within budget and scheduling requirements. PARTIAL CLIENT LIST Harley Davidson, Quiksilver, Hanes, Mattel, Hot Wheels, Loser Machine, Dark Seas, Element Skateboards, Mystery Skateboards, Sullen, Affliction
Senior Apparel Graphic Designer
Quiksilver2018 – 2022
* Revitalized graphics for all SMU (Special Make Up) and Domestic Destination tees and prints increasing the amount of SMU requests from vendors 100% and growing the categories in the Americas by another 150%. * Produced graphic and print collections for licensed partnerships with Peanuts, Pacifico Beer resulting in over $5 million in sales. * Successfully managed multiple projects simultaneously, meeting 100% of my deadlines and exceeding expectations. * Collaborated with design teams in France to create consistent seasonal lines for young men, Waterman, women, and kids. * Refined final deliveries with presentation, and design resulting in consistent seasonal brand direction and quality. * Mentored team artists and new hires which resulted in improved community and 20% workflow increase. * Researched and traveled both locally and internationally for trend analysis and inspiration.
Senior Apparel Graphic Designer
Affliction Clothing2016 – 2018
* Created graphic designs, prints and logos for for both men's and women's apparel as well as licensed brand partnerships. * Delivered projects with continual creativity, speed and accuracy, utilizing exceptional layout and design skills. * Responsible for all research into current graphic trends, assessed new data and kept up-to-date with latest design techniques. * Introduced new technologies and techniques to designers resulting in a 25% increase in productivity.
Graphic Designer
Quiksilver2010 – 2013
* Produced graphic designs, prints, illustrations and logos for men's and women's seasonal collections and accessory lines. * Achieved project targets with high-quality design work in a fast paced environment. * Implemented design changes based on feedback from Art Director to create consistent brand story. * Researched and traveled both locally and internationally for inspiration to contribute to seasonal product lines. * Managed, directed and coordinated assistant designers which resulted in improved team cohesion and community. * Prepared print-ready image files to send to production.
Education
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The Art Institute of ChicagoDefault
Academy of ArtInterests
Skills
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