Queens, New York native Andres always knew his life would revolve around creating art. After graduating with two Bachelor’s degrees in both illustration and toy design from the Fashion Institute of Technology, he would go on to work for a few small design firms as a graphic designer as well as working closely with illustrators as a studio assistant. He helped with editorial projects with illustrator Fred Harper, as well as assist children’s book illustrator Eric Velasquez through various book projects. He would then intern for a few months before becoming one of the studio illustrators and designers for Design Edge inc. As a designer and illustrator for Design Edge, Andres had the opportunity to work with companies like Mattel, Fisher Price, Hasbro, and Cortex Toys on a wide variety of different design projects and illustrations. He currently resides in Queens, New York as a freelance illustrator and designer as well as Studio Designer/Illustrator for Design Edge inc.
Professional Experience
Design Edge Inc. - 2015 to Present
Concept Art and Illustration
• Adapting multiple finishing styles for artwork based on needs of clients and/or licensor.
• Using various traditional and digital mediums to achieve a variety of looks, feels, textures and environments.
• Working from photographic and/or video reference to achieve standard looks for various licenses and IPs.
• Creating mood boards, character turnarounds, facial expression sheets, and control art for various licenses and IPs
Design
• Meeting with clients, Inventors and other designers to reach a common goal.
• Conceptualizing and executing complex and sometimes abstract ideas into finished illustrations, logos, toys and other mass market products.
• Producing sketches and idea level artwork and conceptual design.
• Designing and building prototypes samples, using various tools and media.
Educational Experience
Fashion Institute of Technology
Banner Mule - 2012 to 2015
• Created logos for various small businesses
• Designed posters restaurant menu’s and banners.
• Shot photography for magazine and web articles.