Jay Merriott
Graphic Designer and Photographer · Vestal Watch Int.
Long Beach, CA
In My Own Words
Within the past several years as an adaptive graphic designer, still life product photographer and watch designer, I’ve developed the talents to produce an easily accessible and intuitive library of digital assets for any number of clients while adhering to their strict brand guidelines and labeling conventions. And I still love it!
Work Experience
Graphic Designer and Photographer
Vestal Watch Int.2016 – Present
I am currently working freelance and have a full-time position as Art Director/Lead Designer and in-house photographer at Vestal Watch.
Freelance
Photography and Graphic Design2011 – 2013
Worked from my home office continuing to perform layout and product photography for a magazine while hustling to keep a solid and cohesive image direction intact for miscellaneous brands inside (and out) of the surf, skate and snow industry.
Here's a small list: Tsovet Watches - Tsovet.com Ladera Skateboards and Gunmetal Trucks - Laderaskateboards.com, Gunmetaltrucks.com The Building Distribution - SandMBikes.com - Fitbikeco.com Mizu Coast to Coast Wireless Skull Candy
Art Director
Vestal Watch2004 – 2011
I was brought in by the founder to help with all aspects of layout and design. His departure left me in the creative directors seat where I remained for 7+ years, maintaining the intent of the brand's image and integrity. Led creative direction including watch design, clothing design and brand photography. Also instrumental in helping build and design a successful licensing program.
Freelance
Photography and Graphic Design2002 – 2004
Worked from my home office continuing to perform layout and product photography for a magazine while hustling to keep a solid and cohesive image direction intact for miscellaneous brands inside (and out) of the surf, skate and snow industry.
Graphic Design
S&M Bikes, Fitbikeco and Faction Magazine1993 – 2002
Began creating and printing T-shirt designs and artwork using ink pens, razor blades and rubylith masking film. I then brought designs to fruition using a four color screen press producing a successful, sellable and memorable image for S&M Bikes that is still in motion today. Still creating and producing T-Shirt imagery I was able to move forward into other facets of design – decals, packaging, web, advertising and catalog layout. Near the end of 2002 I was solely responsible for the creation and overall image direction of two brands while designing and laying out an 88 page, bimonthly magazine.