Richard Longhi
Art Director / Illustrator / Senior Designer · Longhi Design Co.
Columbus, GA
In My Own Words
Richard Longhi is a Creative Professional with 25+ Years of Experience Specializing in Art Direction, Illustration, Graphic Design, Logo Design, Brand Strategy and Identity, Print, Layout, Trade Shows, Marketing, Hand Lettering, Typography, Packaging & Label Design, Apparel, Posters, Signage, and more.
Since his early youth, he has seen the world through different eyes and a unique perspective. His experience as a combat photographer in the United States Marine Corps has taught him the importance of good leadership, integrity, the power of teamwork, and facing each day with intestinal fortitude. Richard is highly compassionate and empathetic towards others and uses this in his work and building relationships. As a team player, he is an attentive listener, loyal, and cooperative colleague, always willing to go the extra mile. Whatever the challenge, he continually finds a way to rise to the occasion, using his resourcefulness and problem-solving skills to see every project through to completion. Upon completing his service in the Marines, being completely self-taught, Richard worked from the ground up to turn his childhood passion into a successful career.
In addition to being a passionate creative, Richard loves spending time with his family and friends, connecting with others, Japanese culture, the outdoors, traveling, film, music, concerts, and weightlifting.
Work Experience
Art Director / Illustrator / Senior Designer
Longhi Design Co.2002 – Present
Executes freelance and contract work for national and international clients.
The North Face, The North Face (Japan), WWE, Realtree, Walmart, Proctor & Gamble, Has Heart x Alpha Industries, Jason Ellis, Incendiary (NYHC Band), Tribe Jiu-Jitsu (Italia), Quarter Muffin, Crumbl Cookies, Creative South Conference, Logan (2017), The Domestics (2018), Stranger Things (S3), Phantoms of History (2009).
Art Director
Realtree2011 – 2020
As Art Director, I worked closely with the Creative Director and Project Manager in leading and mentoring our creative team daily, covering all manners of daily operations in support of the company brand and marketing strategies and initiatives. I also supported over 2,000 Licensing and Brand Partners including key retailers such as Walmart and Academy, all while continuing my duties as a Graphic Designer. Additional duties included maintaining and updating all major company presentations, trade shows, microsites, brand identity, brand management, pattern launches, Retail, Sales, and Licensing support, photographic/video commercial shoots, Walmart Liaison, technical support, and more.
Board Member
Creative South2012 – 2016
Creative South is a premier art and design event in the Southeast. Founded in April 2011 as a grassroots event, Creative South has quickly generated a following. Unlike any other conference, Creative South prides itself on nurturing personal design conversations with the creative community at all levels. My principal duties involved overseeing the Vendor Village and contributing to overall conference planning, coordination, setup, and day-to-day operations.
Graphic Designer
Realtree2009 – 2011
Created exceptional work across multiple mediums in support of the department and company-wide objectives. I developed and produced with a high level of skill and imagination across various projects, contributing to the overall mission and enduring success. Duties included but were not limited to marketing and sales collateral, brand promotional materials, brand design, company presentations, national ad campaigns, apparel design, web and social media banners, brochures, billboards, trade show graphics, television and video graphics, product design, launch kits, brand standards, and more.
Graphic Designer
The Verks Group, LLC.2004 – 2008
Successfully managed and coordinated several high-end graphic and web design projects under extremely tight deadlines from concept to completion. Collaborated with clients to create a vision, conceive designs, and consistently meet deadlines and requirements. Established trusting relationships with key clients and vendors. Brainstormed, presented, and drafted reports on all project concepts and executions to the company CEO / Creative Director. Worked alongside the Marketing Director to create and conduct highly persuasive sales and marketing websites and presentations. Partnered with the Director of Development to develop online branding, content, website usability, and internet functionality.
Graphic Designer
Sands Publishing Company (division of Sands Inc.)2002 – 2004
Assisted in project direction and coordination of the production, photography, design, and pre-press of several Award Winning monthly magazines and other printed media. Utilized a unique imagination to develop conceptual solutions for logo, identity, print, and additional media projects. Developed strong client/designer relations and streamlined print job workflow. Doing so while ensuring proper quality control, customer satisfaction, and project deadlines are met. Maintained computer software and updates.
Combat Photographer
United States Marine Corps2001 – 2002
Demonstrated artistic skill and vision on a project-by-project arrangement designing various illustrations, logos, certificates, plaques, awards, posters, flyers, and other printed media in support of the entire Southeastern Marine Corps Recruiting District. Designed and illustrated the Award-Winning, artwork-intensive front cover for the inaugural issue of the 6th Marine Corps District Magazine "The Pacesetter" and contributed to the overall production and design from month to month.
Combat Photographer
United States Marine Corps1998 – 2001
Performed a wide range of photographic (film/digital), graphic design, and audiovisual support for the entire Marine Corps Air Station by applying creative solutions and professionalism to a variety of studio assignments, printed media, combat and historical documentation, crime scene investigation, medical, administrative, training, intelligence, photojournalism, aerial photography, photo scanning and retouching, ceremonial, and internal/external information.