Preparation: Education & Apprenticeship
I built my illustration skills from the earliest school art classes. As a Graphic Design major at Drake University, I studied with working professionals and interned at the design department of a major newspaper. Minoring in Journalism and Theater, I learned to tell a story through writing, photography, scenic design and live performance.
I began my professional career as a production artist at Collective Concepts, a full-service design studio, in 1980. I moved quickly through the ranks to become an illustrator and art director. I led the establishment of a satellite office in partnership with Stu Gang and Associates, a retail advertising agency, in 1985, serving as creative director until 1988.
During these preparatory years I learned how to work with photographers, printers and other specialists to successfully produce the images I created. I also mastered a wide range of traditional media and illustration techniques at a time when they were about to be replaced by digital alternatives for a whole generation of commercial artists.
Growth: Strategic Thinking & Management
In 1989 I joined the staff of Cevette and Company, a strategic marketing and advertising agency. As Senior Art Director and Creative Director, responsible for print, collateral, radio and television, I broadened my skills to include strategic communication analysis, planning and implementation, while working as the agency's principle illustrator.
As a Partner with Cevette and Company, starting in 1995, I became Vice President of Creative Services, managing the creative and production staffs. Some of my major clients at Cevette and Company included Cedric's, Simek's, TimberLodge, the Minnesota Corn Growers Association, Park National Bank, and Norwest Bank.
During these growth years, I learned the importance - and the rigor - of strategic analysis and planning to ensure that the images and messages I create will have the desired impact. I also honed my skills as a manager, learning how to bring complex projects from concept to completion on strategy, on time, and on budget.
Synthesis: Strategic Illustration & Design
In 1999 I decided to merge the aspect of my work that I love the most - illustration - with the strategic sophistication that I have developed working in the advertising business, and started my independent practice: Putman Illustration & Design. For the past eight years I have provided my clients with smart illustration and strategic design that really speaks to their audiences. I would love to do the same for you. Give me a call at 612-321-0629, or contact my illustration representative, Jennifer Clark Frost at 651-690-9631. We can help you reach your creative objectives; on strategy, on target, on time and on budget.
Exhibit A : The obliqitory web animation, as well as the equally obliqitory "portrait of the artist on the biography page", all wrapped into one.
Portage Marketing:
American Lung Association
Minnesota Corn Growers
Association
Minnesota Dental
Association
Minnesota Dental Benefits
Timber Lodge Steakhouse
Onsite
Bay & Bay Trucking
Mohawk Moving & Storage
Truck Writers
BOSS Insurance Group
Concept Financial Group
Peloquin Design:
Securian,
Cobblestone Lake,
Rock Creek,
Carriage Village
Martin Williams:
Polaris
Hot Dish Advertising:
Math Monkey
Regis
Schaefer Communications:
Hennipen County
McKenna Management
Ciatti's
Buffalo Wild Wings
The Galleria
Grand Casino
Norwest Bank
Park National Bank
The Minnesota Orchestra
The Twin Cities Gay Men's
Chorus
Simek's