Turning the world upsideup

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My career has blended production expertise with design principles and a layering creative strategy that employs diplomacy, honesty, and realism to build trust with colleagues and clients. Rarely saying “no” to anything, the roles and responsibilities I took on were diversified, and I reflect that openness advanced my relevance in the industry. There is nothing like assembling the most kick-ass team of young designers, feeling pride in their achievements, and experiencing the energy and enthusiasm for everything they create. It's what I live for and why I love the creative industry.

STREET ART

Always looking for more, my creative curiosity led me to street art. The initial experience was exhilarating, but reality hit hard – what I created wasn't erasable, and it looked horrible. I took a step sideways, found clarity, and recalibrated my approach through origami. The first installation of origami butterflies marked a point in my creative journey. Each installation remains a heart-pounding, sweaty-palm experience, teaching me the joy of creating and sharing that creation with others.

Community service

Giving just a little can spread so much joy and create positive change.

Provided my service to the Salvation Army for several years, volunteering on the canteen twice a month to serve warm meals to those in need. I played a key role in organizing the Red Kettle 5k Run for their Des Moines Chapter, managing the event for three consecutive years.

Co-founded a non-profit called Paws & Effect, which provided animal-assisted therapy programs for Iowa residents and training service dogs for veterans. I was a nationally certified instructor and evaluator for the therapy animal programs. Organized numerous events and marketing materials for fund raising and community outreach. Paws & Effect, had at the time over 140 volunteers statewide. In congress with the mission I also contributed as a member of the National Pet Partner Committee based in Seattle.

Contact: theupside.art@gmail.com (c/o Eric Shumate)