Hi! I'm Maeve.
A creative with over two decades of experience.
I'm your Art Dept.
The Art Dept. is a creative design studio in Salt Lake City, UT but serving clients anywhere on the globe. Specializing in producing, photo styling, branding, packaging, video and illustration. From arts and media to technology and home goods. I'm up for anything and love a good challenge.
Maeve Johnston
Dec 2000
Education
Bachelor of Fine Art emphasis Graphic Design
Utah State University, Logan, Utah
Mar 2008 to Current
The Art Dept.
Owner / Designer
I have worked full time freelancing for 13 years. I have had the some of the same freelance clients for all 13 years (!) – I am consistent and dependable. My portfolio includes design work for large brands such as: Martha Stewart, Gap, Tommy Hilfiger, BCBG, Les Mills, The Biggest Loser, Schwinn, Dwell Studio, and Jones of New York. During this time, I have learned about managing clients, projects and their expectations, producing quality work efficiently, and the importance of a 401k match and health care benefits.
May 2002 to Mar 2008
Maggie Sottero - Creative Director
I managed a team of ten designers in a very fast-paced and stressful environment. I oversaw branding, advertising, design, photo styling, and day to day of an international bridal brand. I travelled internationally and directed brand development in two countries, while presenting the work my team and I produced to directors and executives several times per week. I focused on building unity in my team and keeping morale up, which helped improve the quality of the design and the engagement of the team members. I played a huge part in the overall improvement of the Maggie Sottero brand, which helped to contribute to the incredible growth the company experienced while I was there. I also learned it is possible to miss a flight while staring jet lagged at the gate.
May 2001 to May 2002
Merkley Newman Hardy - Designer
At Merkley Newman Hardy I was exposed to the New York Ad Agency life. I freelanced in the internal design department and produced work for such brands as Jet Blue, Citi Bank and Fila. I was able to push myself creatively and meet tough timelines to get some really good work out. I worked on a variety of print projects including several packaging jobs, and multiple branding books. I was part of a tight-knit team that taught me the importance of collaboration, camaraderie, and a two-dollar slice in the East Village.
Sept. 1999 to May 2000
Axiom - Intern
My first taste of actual real-life graphic design experience. I did work for some really cool clients (Nickelodeon!), attended my first press check, became a master of the X-acto knife, and learned that spray mount can ruin a fresh pair of shoes if you’re not careful.
Knowledge: Adobe Creative Suite, Adobe Premiere, Figma, Keynote, Microsoft Office, Microsoft Excel, Powerpoint
Get in Touch
Interested in learning more about my work or how we can collaborate on an upcoming project? Let's chat.
