I am a versatile graphic designer from Chicago with a BFA in Visual Communication and over 11 years of experience, including 4 years in-office.
I love creating engaging designs across various media and industries, from a large Otis Spunkmeyer CPG rollout and bakery sales presentations, to a star-studded IFC TV show pilot, (directed by Steven Conrad) where I lip-synced 3D lips onto live-action, stop-motion baby dolls.
Whether it’s branding, print, or web, I am passionate about bringing creative ideas to life and helping brands tell their stories. Tech-savvy and adaptable, I am always excited to dive into new projects and make a real impact.
SELECT BRANDS
Verizon
Hyatt Regency Chicago
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EXPERIENCE
IAN ARTHUR MERRILL DESIGN, LLC
Freelance Designer
May 2015 — Present [11 years]
▪ Design logos, identities, and branding for a wide range of clients, leading to improved brand visibility.
▪ Craft print and web designs that improve brand consistency.
▪ Produce ads and presentations that increase client communication and conversion rates.
▪ Manage multiple design projects simultaneously, consistently meeting deadlines and exceeding client expectations.
Graphic Designer
June 2026 — Present
▪ Creating web, print, and ads that deliver results.
▪ Moving rapidly to deliver, while also maintaining websites and brands as they grow.
▪ Working at the forefront of technology.
Imagine Learning
Contract Graphic Designer
December 2024 — June 2026 [1.5 years]
▪ Designed engaging graphic assets for K-12 education curriculum across multiple brands for both print and digital platforms.
▪ Developed branded marketing materials, ensuring accessibility and usability for diverse audiences.
▪ Streamlined image asset workflow for the launch of a new national K-5 literary brand, enhancing operational efficiency.
Brian Hall Design Group
Graphic Designer
August 2013 — July 2015 [2 years]
▪ Created web, print, and motion graphic designs that increased client engagement and website traffic.
▪ Collaborated with cross-functional teams to deliver cohesive branding across all media, enhancing client satisfaction and retention.
▪ Implemented design solutions that reduced project turnaround time.
▪ Collaborated with cross-functional teams to deliver cohesive branding across all media, enhancing client satisfaction and retention.
▪ Implemented design solutions that reduced project turnaround time.
Protokulture
Motion Graphics Designer
August 2011 — July 2013 [2 years]
▪ Developed 2D/3D animations and visual effects for ads and films, contributing to successful campaigns and enhanced brand storytelling.
▪ Utilized a Cinema 4D to After Effects workflow in a fast-paced environment to meet client needs.
▪ Designed logos, print materials, and web assets to enhance clients’ abilities, delivering assets on time.
Event Production Services of NIU
Student Marketing/Design Manager
Jan 2008 — Jan 2011 [3 years]
▪ Led a team of designers to develop and execute marketing campaigns, driving increased event attendance.
▪ Collaborated with clients to create cohesive marketing strategies, strengthening campus presence and engagement.
▪ Managed the planning, promotion, and setup of events, leading to improved processing of campus events.
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PROFICIENCY
IllustratorPhotoshop
After Effects
Premiere
InDesign
Logic Pro
Garageband
Google Docs & Slides
Powerpoint
Word
MAC OS
FAMILIARITY
HTML & CSS
Wordpress
Wordpress
Web CMS
Figma
Google Sites
Canva
Adobe Express
Cinema 4D
Fusion 360
FinalCut Pro
Text & Image AI
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EDUCATION
Northern Illinois University
BFA – Visual Communication
AIGA Student Officer
NIU School of Business - Experiential Learning Center Team Member
Sophomore Leadership Award
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