Nick Smith
Muralist · Section 127
Whitestown, IN
In My Own Words
I’m a Creative Lead, Muralist, and Experiential Graphic Designer (EGD) with over a decade of experience shaping large-format public art, branded environments, and sports marketing projects around the world. My focus is on leading creative efforts that transform physical spaces and campaigns into bold, memorable experiences.
I bring both vision and execution. I’ve guided projects for global brands like Google, the NBA, HGTV, and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, managing budgets, collaborating with teams, and delivering design that connects at scale. From civic murals to national sports campaigns, I approach every project as an opportunity to lead with clarity and push creative boundaries.
Alongside that, I’ve built a deep connection to the motocross and off-road world—working with brands like FMF Racing and Taco Moto/GET ECU and nearly joining Kiska in Austria to design for KTM, Husqvarna, and GasGas. As both a racer and creative, I understand this space from the inside and bring an authentic perspective that resonates with athletes and audiences alike.
My background spans murals, branding, experiential design, digital marketing, and video production. I know enough across disciplines to guide projects wherever they need to go, from concept and pitch decks to vendor coordination and final install.
Based in Indianapolis, I travel often and thrive collaborating with like-minded teams that want to elevate athletes, brands, and communities. Elevating the sport and the spaces we move through is what drives me.
Work Experience
Designer
Section 1272025 – Present
As a Designer at Section 127, I work across a range of Experiential Graphic Design projects—helping shape branded environments, signage systems, and large-scale visual experiences for civic, corporate, and cultural spaces. My role involves both creative concepting and design execution, with an emphasis on collaboration and strategic thinking.
Designer / Mural Artist / Signage Painter
Nick Abstract2019 – Present
I design for real spaces — blending large-scale artwork, hand-painted murals, and signage to create bold visuals that connect with people and place. From city walls to hospitality venues to community-focused spaces, my work aims to leave a lasting impression rooted in both aesthetics and meaning.
For over a decade, I’ve led mural and signage projects across the U.S. and Canada, partnering with brands, developers, architects, and nonprofits to bring ideas to life at scale. I manage everything from early concept sketches and client presentations to production planning, lift operation, and final install. My work spans exterior façades, interior murals, wayfinding signage, and civic installations — always tailored to fit the space and the story behind it.
My process is hands-on and collaborative. Whether I’m brush-painting a wall or coordinating fabrication with a signage vendor, I care deeply about the craft, the logistics, and the outcome. I believe great artwork doesn’t just fill space — it transforms it.
Artist
The Basement - an integrated agency2017 – 2019
I worked as a Production Designer at The Basement for over two years, supporting a wide range of client and internal projects. My day-to-day involved hands-on design production, asset creation, and layout refinement across digital and print. I collaborated closely with multiple teams — including strategy, creative, and development — to deliver high-quality work on tight timelines. The role strengthened my ability to adapt across brands, maintain visual consistency, and contribute to fast-moving, cross-disciplinary campaigns.
Graphic Design Intern
Indy Imaging Inc2016 – 2017
As a Graphic Design Intern at Indy Imaging from June 2016 to May 2017, I assisted in developing branding and marketing collateral for both internal communications and external client use. I worked closely with the lead designer to create digital assets for a new company initiative and helped design a comprehensive product guide showcasing the company’s full range of services and offerings. I also supported the refinement of visual materials for both web and print applications, contributing to the overall sales and promotional efforts.
Graphic Design Marketing Intern
Sonicu2012 – 2013
As a Marketing Design Intern at Sonicu, I led creative direction on presentation graphics and collateral for their healthcare technology products. I worked directly with leadership to modernize their visual brand — aligning their website with current design trends and producing brochures, sales materials, and product visuals used in client pitches. The role gave me early experience in applying design strategically, especially in a technical, healthcare-focused industry.
Education
Bachelor of Fine Arts - BFA
Herron School of Art + Design2013 – 2017
Attended the Herron School of Art and Design with a strong focus in Visual Communication design, though electives were taken to broaden the artistic breadth of knowledge.
