Hello

My name is Kristen Kuhns. I’m an experienced art director, graphic designer, illustrator and ceramic artist. I graduated with honors from Rowan University with a bachelor’s degree in fine arts. My focus was graphic design and illustration with a minor in art history. After graduating, I began my career as a graphic designer in the custom invitation industry along with freelance work. I earned the opportunity to join a newly formed creative agency, where I grew my experience & expertise, climbing the ladder from freelancer to senior art director. My diverse project work includes print and digital for an array of clients ranging from small town businesses to Fortune 500 companies. I strive to produce work with a strong creative eye and a meticulous attention to detail.

Resume

  • 2004-2008: Rowan University (Glassboro, New Jersey)

    • Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts

    • Graduated Cum Laude

    • Concentration in graphic design and illustration with a minor in art history

  • 2008-2009: Blue Tulip | Graphic Designer and Illustrator

    • Consult with clients on project needs, timeline and budget

    • Design and refine multi-piece invitation package options

    • Create custom illustrations

    • Manage, print and assemble orders

    2008-Present: Freelance | Graphic Designer and Fine Artist

    • Consult with clients on project needs, timeline and budget

    • Create custom designs, including logos, invitation packages, event promotional materials and displays

    • Create unique fine artworks, including illustrations and ceramics

    2009-2012: Element Six Creative Group | Graphic Designer

    2013-2015: Element Six Creative Group | Junior Graphic Designer

    2016-2018: Element Six Creative Group | Senior Graphic Designer

    2019-2023: Element Six Creative Group | Art Director

    2023-Present: Element Six Creative Group | Senior Art Director

    • Consult with clients to assess their project needs and messaging goals to form a creative brief and strategy

    • Work directly with account and project managers to assess, plan and organize project needs, timelines and budgets

    • Perform preliminary project research along with gathering and organizing of assets

    • Design unique project options or concepts using advanced creative skills within various programs

    • Utilize internal and client feedback to refine chosen designs in a multi-draft process

    • Schedule and participate in both internal and client follow-up meetings and/or presentations

    • Delegate and direct creative tasks to junior and/or freelance designers

    • Finalize projects by preparing final files and assets

    • Communicate and coordinate with vendors (i.e. printers, web developers, videographers, venue managers, etc.) to solicit estimates, acquire specifications, release files, review proofs, produce and deliver projects

    • Create internal marketing pieces, promotional items and social media designs

    • Create and update internal materials, forms, templates, design assets, etc.

    • Advise on internal processes, procedures and longterm goals to ensure efficiency and success

  • Adobe Creative Suite

    • InDesign

    • Illustrator

    • Photoshop

    • XD

    • Acrobat

    Microsoft Office

    • PowerPoint

    • Word

    • Excel

    Other

    • Figma

    • Sketch

    • WordPress

    • Keynote

  • Graphic Design USA - American Graphic Design Awards

    2009: The Octaves Website
    2011: Rosemont Recordings Album Design
    2014: Rumson's Rum Package Design
    2014: e6 "Launch Your Creative Ideas" Promotional Items
    2014: e6 Craft Beers Package Design
    2015: Rumnson's Rum Website

    New Jersey Art Directors Club Awards

    2021: Onkos Surgical Tradeshow Presence

    Other Roles

    2014-2016: Art Directors Club of New Jersey | Member
    2016-2018: United Design Guild | Member
    2018-2019: United Design Guild | Board Director

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