Aaron Gleen: Art Director/ Graphic Designer in Riverside, California

I founded Gleenhouse, now known as GRAY+, specializing in branding, logo systems, print and digital design, UI design, and creative direction. As I cultivated a notable client roster, I brought my creative expertise and strategic vision to each project. I possess a keen eye for aesthetics and am dedicated to delivering impactful visual solutions for my clients. Through close collaboration, I translate their company's vision into compelling visual narratives, ensuring each project receives meticulous attention and a distinctive touch. With a proven track record of meeting diverse client needs and fostering lasting relationships, I am committed to elevating brands through visually striking design solutions.

Hired as a contractor, I was quickly transitioned into a permanent role, as a graphic designer, and ultimately an art director. My principal responsibilities involve the department-specific concepts and design of marketing. Including but not limited to brochures, banners, websites, multimedia displays, videos, and more. Tailored to support the distinct needs of each unit within USC Auxiliary Services, namely Housing, Hospitality, Transportation, and the Bookstore. Additionally, I was tasked with external client (other departments and faculty) projects. This multifaceted role requires a comprehensive understanding of diverse design elements to effectively cater to the unique requirements of various units and external stakeholders.

My primary objective centered on facilitating the company's expansion into graphic services while establishing and cultivating an in-house art department. Concurrently, I undertook the task of unifying the overall brand identity of the organization. In this capacity, my responsibilities encompassed the development of marketing materials, providing visual support for engineers, product development, the creation and maintenance of the company website, and formulating comprehensive pricing structures and service contracts for the newly introduced graphic services. My efforts aimed to not only broaden the company's service offerings but also to ensure a cohesive and impactful visual representation across all facets of its operations.

Hired as a Graphic Designer, I rapidly progressed to the role of Senior Designer. In the capacity of Senior Designer, my responsibilities were to collaborate closely with brand managers to develop and execute advertising campaigns and promotions. My multifaceted responsibilities encompassed the creation of new product logos, advertisements, brochures, posters, point-of-purchase displays, graphics for trade show booths, direct mailers, presentations, photography, video production, web preparation, as well as designing graphics on products for product release presentations… even diving into t-shirt design. This role demanded a comprehensive skill set and a keen eye for detail to ensure the seamless execution of diverse design projects.

In my role within the sign design department, I assumed the responsibility of conceptualizing art for diverse signage projects, encompassing indoor and outdoor installations, as well as digital kiosks. Notably, I undertook projects involving the restoration of severely damaged existing signage, showcasing adaptability and creative problem-solving. Transitioning to the art department, my focus shifted to designing marketing and sales materials. This encompassed creating site maps, floor plans, and aesthetically enhancing sales office environments. Additionally, I also generated graphics for conventions, seminars, and presentation materials, contributing to the overall visual representation of the company's brand and offerings.