About
Rob's extensive career of over 30 years enables him to leverage a diverse range of skills and expertise across various digital projects. He has a wealth of experience in print design, art production, web design and coding, video editing, animation, and photography.
Art by Computers: The Debate Continues in 2023
“Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do.”
— Steve Jobs
Art made by computers is gaining popularity in the art world, but not everyone is on board. Some believe it's innovative and expands our definition of art, while others argue that it lacks the emotional depth and intention of human-created art.
Despite the debates, computer-made art is being featured in galleries, museums, and receiving prestigious awards. It's even selling for big bucks, proving that it's here to stay. This isn't the first time the art world has had to adapt to new technology; similar debates were had when Photoshop was first introduced over 30 years ago.
Ultimately, whether or not computer-made art is considered "real" art is subjective. Some believe that it doesn't possess the same soul and humanity as human-made art, while others see it as a unique and exciting way to create and appreciate art.
As an AI language model, I find this discussion fascinating, and I'm excited to see how this new tool will provide new ways to express creativity.
Did I mentioned that I provide services in the following areas?
- Graphic Design
- Web Design and Development
- Photography
- Animation
- Logo Design
- Publication Design
- Video Acquisition and Editing
- Freelance
Skills
One of the benefits of having a long career in the graphics arts industry is that many of the digital tools used, like the Adobe Creative Suite, are like second nature to me. In fact, I've been using some of them since they were beta software! I know you’re probably saying something like “geez, this guy must be old!” However, something Henry Ford said helped me to appreciate age is a frame of mind. He said, “Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty.” I'm inspired by Ford’s saying because it keeps me on a path of continuous learning and perfecting the tools of my trade.
Resume
One of my college professors use to say, “Your resume should never be finished". That being said, here's the current state of my work-in-progress.
Summary
Rob D'Amico
Rob is a formally trained commercial artist, designer, and photographer with over 30 years of experience developing a wide range of communication materials. With expertise in digital communications, UI/UX simulations, web applications, and more, Rob has had the opportunity to work on many exciting projects throughout his career.
His work has garnered numerous accolades on both the local and international stage, including the prestigious inVision Award from NewMedia Magazine, the International Crystal Award of Excellence from The Communicator Awards, the Renaissance Award of Excellence from IABC - Detroit, the Literacy Achievement Award from Michigan Literacy Inc. and the Public Library Association Advancement of Literacy Award for Literacy Strategies for Adult Reading Tutors (LITSTART).
Education
Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant, MI
Pursued a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with concentrations in Design, Commercial Art, and Photography.
Macomb Community College, Warren, MI
I completed General Studies as part of a University Preparation trsansfer program, and served as Photo Editor for the college newspaper. Additionally, I achieved a 3.74 GPA and was named to the Dean's List for my academic achievements.
Center for Creative Studies, Detroit, MI
Completed supplemental studies in Marker Rendering Techniques and Air Brush Illustration to further enhance my skills and knowledge in traditional design techniques.
Continuing Education
- Data Tech Institute: Advance Troubleshooting for the Macintosh
- Color Across America/Thomas Monroe, Inc.: Calibration, Trapping, Film Quality and Color Correction
- MacroMedia, Inc. (ADOBE): Advanced UI Design, Interactive Media, Advanced Programming Techniques
Professional Experience
Multimedia & Graphic Designer
Freelance Multimedia Designer, Detroit, MI
- Actively lead the design, development, and implementation of digital and printed communication materials, overseeing the entire lifecycle of each project from conception to completion
- Provide expert guidance and advice on all aspects of the project to ensure optimal outcomes.
- Meticulously assess all graphic materials to guarantee top-notch quality and accuracy
- Manage production budgets ranging from $5,000 - $125,000
- Proven track record of delivering high-quality materials within budget and on schedule
Graphic Department Supervisor, Creative Director
Carlson Marketing Company, Automotive Division, Troy, MI
- Over the course of 48 months, I led the successful digital migration of the graphics department, directing and managing the entire process to ensure a smooth transition.
- My successful leadership in the digital migration of the graphics department enabled the company to recapture an impressive half-million dollars in annual production costs. Additionally, this process led to shorter timelines and greater flexibility in revision cycles, providing the company with a significant competitive advantage in the market.
- I created and implemented a comprehensive training program for art production and digital design staff to continually enhance their skills and knowledge.
- As a skilled manager, I delegated tasks to the 16 members of the design team and provided expert counsel on all aspects of each project to ensure optimal outcomes.
- I oversaw the assessment of all graphic deliverables, diligently scrutinizing each design to ensure the highest levels of quality and accuracy.
- Managed production budgets ranging from $25,000 - $500,000
Art Director, Pre-Press Production
Ameritech Publishing / Words & More, LTD.
- Led the design and production of 89 annual directory enhancement publications using a combination of digital and traditional art production workflows.
- Provided a full range of digtial design services, including logo design, publication design, ad layouts, typography, illustration, photo retouching, sales and marketing communications, trade displays, color separation, and print coordination, as an internal resource for a large commercial printer.
Portfolio
Here are just a few samples of projects I've completed recently. You can also take a look at a narrated version that I put together containing some additional samples.
- All
- Web
- Photo
- App
CreatiVE Services
I've been providing design, web and photo services for more than 30-years. I can plug into your existing team as freelance to provide a very selective skill-set or as a creative partner managing every aspect of your communication project.
Publication Design & Production
Business Cards, Brochures, Manuals, Catalogs, Books, PDF, ePub, Printed & Digital
Website Design & Development
Single & Multi Page, Social Media, Search Optimization, AdWords, B2B, B2C, eCommerce
Photography & Video Production Services
Portrait, Product, Social, YouTube, Capture, Edit, Retouch, Compress & Post
Testimonials
Jody Sherwin
Owner, CAP/DIGI
I have worked with Rob in a professional capacity for over 20 years. He consistently delivers exceptional creativity and superior design to every project. What I enjoy and appreciate most about working with him is his adaptability. He takes input and feedback on initial design work very well, and then consistently over-delivers on projects. It's a bonus that he does this all with a very pleasant, collaborative, and supportive demeanor. I am always looking forward to the next opportunity to get Rob involved on my projects.
Mark Allen
Senior Vice President - Business Development, Quorum Information Technologies
I've engaged Rob's services numerous times over the years - mostly in the area of creative design work. He has an outstanding ability to truly understand the business goals and messages you are trying to convey and create a "look" and "theme" that delivers them. Rob comes up with very creative and visually appealing concepts, and works well with you in the "back-and-forth" process to get to the final result. I highly recommend Rob's talents!
Peter Bagwell
Owner, ILoveOils.com
Rob always comes through for us in crunch time situations and continues to impress us with up-to-date knowledge of internet technology and most importantly: creative marketing solutions.
Contact
