Cedar Rapids, IA
ryanleekeller@gmail.com
rlkdesign.com
Ryan Keller - Art Director / Designer
focusing on good design with love
Biography and strategy
As a graphic designer, I believe that great design lies in the power of simplicity. My work is driven by the philosophy that clear, purposeful design can communicate complex ideas with elegance and precision. I approach each project by diving deep into the problem, focusing on distilling the message to its most essential elements, creating visuals that are both functional and aesthetically striking.
I aim to craft designs that speak through clarity—clean, modern, and intentional—where every element serves a purpose. My goal is to ensure that the design not only meets my clients’ objectives but does so in a way that resonates deeply, stands the test of time, and leaves a lasting impression. By balancing beauty with efficiency, I am committed to creating work that is not only seen but remembered.
Sample work
Experience
Senior Designer
CRST
2023 — 2024
Creating and maintaining CRST logos, brand identity guidelines, and visual assets. Developing branded templates for CRST presentations, documents, and digital assets. Designing graphics for CRST vehicles, including trucks, vans, and trailers. Collaborating with vendors for production and installation of CRST vehicle wraps and decals. Overseeing multiple design projects simultaneously at CRST, ensuring deadlines and budgets are met. Collaborating with CRST marketing teams, copywriters, and other departments to execute creative strategies. Organizing and maintaining a digital library of design assets, templates, and brand materials for CRST. Implementing systems for efficient retrieval and distribution of assets.
Owner / Director
rlkDesign
2017 — Present
Own, run and operate single-person design study. The man with many hats.
Senior Designer
HorsePower Brands
2022 — 2023
Designed visually stunning brand identities, art direction, logos, and conceptual layouts for all marketing collateral across print and digital channels, ensuring the brand stands out in the market. Created lasting brand impact on customers and the industry, reflecting the commitment to quality and innovation. Managed design projects with talented designers and executive stakeholders, executing every initiative to bring the brand vision to life and achieve
Senior Designer
Motion Industries
2015 — 2022
Oversaw all aspects of the four billion dollar company's branding to ensure consistency and quality across every touchpoint. Managed communication with print vendors to ensure seamless delivery of marketing materials. Led the design and development of all product packaging and point-of-purchase materials to ensure products stood out on shelves and resonated with the target audience.
Education
Coe College
Cedar Rapids, IA
Studio Art / B.A.
2001 — 2005
Studied under master printmaker Kathy Caraccio studio. Manhattan.