Keith Bowman » Design Junkie

A Brief History of Me

Two paragraphs to summarize almost two decades of work

After being rebuked by my parents for wanting to attend art school, I left home at 18 in search of a creative career. I spent years working factory jobs, while saving money to take a few design classes at a local college. I would stay in school until the money ran out and then back to work in the factory until I could afford a few more classes. During this time, I started getting freelance jobs designing promotional materials for local bands and clubs. I took out my first loan from a bank. It was a car loan. I bought a computer.

In order to learn the latest software packages, I enrolled in classes at a local college. After two semesters, the college offered me job teaching graphic design classes, which I did for four years. At the same time, I took various design positions for various advertising / design shops and began to work my way up the “corporate ladder”. Throughout my almost 20 years in the field of graphic design, I have worked in just about every aspect of this career path—from junior designer to creative director—but one thing has remained a constant: my desire to produce quality work that is a direct reflection of me and a result of my hard work and dedication.

My Design Philosophy

These are the design truths that I hold to be self-evident

Graphic design is not always about breaking the rules. Truly memorable design comes from a need to create new rules and new ways to effectively communicate a concept through visual method. In addition, a successful design does not rely on the designer’s ability to “think outside of the box” every time, but is often dependent on the designer’s skill to find a solution using the parameters found within the box.

I am dedicated to developing a disciplined approach to compositional design. I strive to incorporate the fundamental principles of design through a foundation of strong conceptual thinking.

Testimonials

“Hey there. Since you asked, I’ll say that Keith has every ingredient we look for in a great creative — constant curiosity, relentless passion, ridiculous work ethic and a wonderful ability to listen and turn what he hears into amazing ideas. Add to the stats above the fact that he intimately understands the interactive space and you have the makings of a creative power player.

I’ve only had the good fortune to work with Keith for a short time but it’s easy to see what makes him tick…intelligently conceived, awesomely crafted design. He lives for it and delivers it in any category and with any client. Plus he has an easy-going presentation style that puts clients at ease and allows them not only to appreciate the work but also the thinking behind it.

If you have the chance to meet him I’d encourage you to “act now” (as we say in this business). Keith is a great thinker, a remarkable designer and quite a creative catch and I’ve gotta feeling his availability might be a “limited time offer”. In other words, any shop would be better with Keith, so snap him up while you have the chance. And if you’d like a bit more gushing, please give me a call. Be glad to chat up many more reasons to bring on Keith.”

Steve Red, President, CCO Red Tettemer

“Keith is one of the most progressive designers I know. His skill set isn’t limited to just design, he also wields a powerful illustrative arsenal as well and combines them for uniquely intelligent creative solutions. Keith also has a great sense of humor which you can find reflected in much of his work. I appreciate his passion for creating captivating art and I couldn't recommend him more for your creative needs.”

Von Glitschka, Illustrative Designer, Glitschka Studios

“Keith is a truly remarkable Art Director and Designer. His passion for the design process is second to none and his ability to translate strategy into memorable and stunning creative work is what truly sets him apart. Keith also proves to be an incredible teacher and mentor. I’ve watched him work with several budding designers and the improvement is marked and immediate. I hope to have the opportunity to work with Keith again in the near future.”

Patrick Walsh, Vice President & Creative Director, TMX Communications

The Road So Far

Informational graphic of my work history