Lightning. Thunder. Electricity. Even as a small child I’ve had a fascination with thunderstorms. The sheer power of a thunderstorm sends bolts of excitement and sparks of fear through my body. I try to channel those feelings of inspiration into my work. I feel that like a bolt of lightning, my work commands attention from a crowd. Through my original concept, dynamic layouts, and fine execution, my work truly is the creative spark you have been looking for.
My custom design solutions are inspired by your individual needs and objectives. At the start of each project, I will meet with you to understand the core of your business, competition, and customers. During the design process, I will keep you updated at every stage of the project, giving you choices, and the opportunity for input, modifications, and approval. From print to web design, I can help you identify, craft, and clearly communicate your company's marketing message.
| Print Collateral | Web & Interactive Design | Information Design | Illustration |
| Brand Identity Development | Email Graphics & Newsletter Design | Editorial Design | Presentations |
| Advertising | Icon Design | Outdoor |
- education
- experience 1
- experience 2
- experience 3
- experience 4
- skills
- achievements
- activities
- download resume
EDUCATION
University of Memphis: Memphis, TN
Expected Graduation May 2009
Master of Fine Arts (Graphic Design) G.P.A. 3.93
Bradley University: Peoria, IL Graduated May 2006
Major: Graphic Design, Minors: Marketing & Business Management
G.P.A in Major 3.86/4.0, Bradley G.P.A. 3.75/4.0, Magna Cum Laude
Studied Abroad: London England, January 2004
Class: Creative Strategy
EXPERIENCE
Arkansas State University: August 2009 — Present
Assistant Professor of Graphic Design
• Fall Courses: Graphic Design 5, Introduction to Digital Media and Design (intro to web), and Motion Design
• Spring Courses: Graphic Design 2, Advanced Digital Media (flash), and Package Design
• Faculty Advisor for AIGA (American Institute of Graphic Arts)
• Gallery Committee Member, Assessment Committee Member, Curriculum Committee Member, Scholarship Committee Member
Lewis Clark Advertising Design: April 2009 — Present
• Print Production, Web Development, Flash Animation, Graphic Design, Search Engine Optimization
Freelance Work , Memphis TN: 2007-Present
• Signature Advertising, Beatty Hill Architecture, Viking Kitchen School, Morgan Keegan, Phormulate, Lead Dog Web,
Ultimate Web Design, O,T,V,S., Compliance Assurance Associates
EXPERIENCE
University of Memphis: Fall Semester 2007 - May 2009
Graduate Instructor of Record
• Taught: Computer Assisted Design Fall 2007 -Spring 2008, Visual Thinking Fall 2008, Graphic Design History Spring 2009
Jones Hall Gallery, University of Memphis: Fall 2007 - January 2009
Graphic / Web Designer
• Create promotional material for gallery and artists in need
• Designed the Jones Hall Gallery website
Web Design Contractor
• Html and CSS coding and Updated content for three websites
EXPERIENCE
PIP Printing , Memphis TN: May 2007 - August 2007
Graphic Design Contractor
• Designed and printed a variety of promotional material>
• Communicated with clients regarding their individual needs
Center of Multimedia Arts , University of Memphis: Fall Semester 2006 - Fall Semester 2007
Design Researcher
• Conducted research for interdisciplinary group of professors and researchers
• Designed print and multimedia based materials in support of research projects
EXPERIENCE
Peoria Area Chamber of Commerence: Peoria IL: June 2005 - May 2006
Graphic Design Intern
• Designed assorted printed materials i.e. logos, event promotion & signage
• Conducted presentations on design concepts at relevant committee meetings
MCOMM Group: Peoria IL: Fall Semester 2004
Graphic Design Intern (primary designer on Fridays, art director did not work)
• Created assorted logos, direct mail cards, and brochures
Illinois Manufacturing Extension Center: Peoria IL: Fall Semester 2003 - Summer Semester 2004
Graphic Design/Marketing Intern
• Planned and produced IMEC and IMEC’s client sales & promotional literatures
• Structured internet newsletter and bimonthly printed newsletter
ADDITIONAL SKILLS
• Extensive knowledge of Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Fireworks, QuarkXPress, InDesign, Dreamweaver, HTML, CSS, iLife, GarageBand, Microsoft Office,
• Intermediate skills in Flash (Actionscript 2.0/3.0), & After Effects
• Basic skills in PHP, MySQL, NaviCat & Content Management System Development
• Comfortable with both PC and Macintosh
ACHIEVEMENTS
• 2009 Six pieces Featured in Arkansas State University Faculty Art Show
• 2008 Six pieces Featured in Northwest Mississippi Community College Graduate Student Exhibition
• Received a University of Memphis Assistantship / Tuition Waver
• Named Outstanding Student in Graphic Design at Bradley University
• Bradley University Dean's Academic Scholarship
• 2002-2006 Caterpillar Inc. Scholarship
• 2003-2006 National Dean’s List
• 2003 Member of the Phi Eta Sigma, Freshman Honor Society
• 2002-2006 Bradley University Dean’s List
• 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 Who’s Who Among American’s College Students
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
• 2007-Present A.I.G.A Member Memphis Chapter
• 2008-Present Memphis Pug Rescue Volunteer Graphic Designer
• 2008 901 Creatives Member
• 2005-2006 President of AIGA (American Insitute of Graphic Arts) Bradley University’s Student Chapter
• 2004-2006 AIGA Member for Bradley University’s Student Chapter
• 2003-2006 Alpha Phi Omega Member, (national co-ed service fraternity)
• 2004 Fall Semester Blood Drive Chair through Alpha Phi Omega
• 2004-Present Central Illinois Herpetological Society Volunteer Webmaster
• 2003-2004 Habitat for Humanity Member
• 1994-Present American Legion Auxiliary Junior Member
| Download printable resume |  |
Teaching
I am currently employeed at Arkansas State University as a Temporary Assistant Professor of Graphic Design.This year I'm teaching a senior level Graphic Design class, Motion Design (AfterEffects), Introduction to Digital Design (HTML & CSS web design), Graphic Design 2, Package Design, and Advanced Digital Design (Flash). I'm also the faculty advsior for the student A.I.G.A chapter. I've posted some examples of my students' work at www.jessaportfolio.com/images/students_work/students_work.php.
Design
Following the completion of my MFA in graphic design I began working for Lewis Clark Advertising Design full time. Since I began teaching at Arkansas State University I have switched to working part time at Lewis Clark Advertising Design. I do web developing, graphic design, flash animation, search engine optimation, and print production at the advertising design firm.
Pro Bono Design
I'm currently designing an engaging space for 1st-3rd grade students large group sessions at Christ United Methodist Church in Memphis, Tennessee.
Email me directly at jessa.wilcoxen@gmail.com
