Hi! I'm Maeve.

Experienced leader and designer with a demonstrated history of working in the graphic design, fashion and ad industry. Skilled in typography, art direction, page layout, user experience, and video production.
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The Art Dept. is my company in Salt Lake City, UT 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

Apr 2021 to Current

ThomasArts -
Creative Director

I lead a creative team at ThomasArts (TA). I am responsible for the creative process of various digital projects like branding, graphic design, user experience, and video production. I take the client’s vision, execute it, and make it better. I continue to go above and beyond, not just in my creative skills, but overall. I have an in-depth understanding of design tools, and industry knowledge of market trends to complete each campaign. At TA I continue to use my wit and grit to complete projects on more than tight deadlines, all while being able to keep a good sense of humor. Just ask my co-workers.

Mar 2008 to 2021

The Art Dept. -
Owner / Designer

I have worked full time freelancing for 13 years. 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 learned about managing clients, their projects and their expectations while 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 on 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 Harty -
Designer

At Merkley Newman Harty 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 Design -
Designer

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, Adobe XD, Figma, Keynote, Microsoft Office, Powerpoint

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