Resume
Garrett Ritchey
Illustrator / Graphic Artist
Creative and adaptable Visual Artist with a recent Bachelor of Arts in Studio Arts. Skilled in illustration, character design, and visual storytelling across traditional and digital media. Experienced in drawing, painting, and mixed media, with a strong foundation in composition, artistic technique, and creative problem-solving. Collaborative and detail-oriented, with a passion for developing engaging visual content. Eager to continue growing within the entertainment and creative industries.
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Studio Arts, San Diego State University
May 2026
San Diego, CA
Awards: Graduated Summa Cum Laude (3.82 GPA); Dean's List 2022-2025
Publications: Word Balloons: Future Shock Treatment, "9:00-9:05," p. 61, Fall 2025
Relevant Coursework: Illustration I/II/III, Life Drawing I/II, 2D/3D Design, Digital Media, Drawing I/II
Study Abroad Program: CSU Florence Center
January - May 2025
Florence, Italy
Skills
Tools: Adobe Creative Suite, Procreate, Keynote, Microsoft Office Suite
Art & Design: Illustration, Character Design, Concept Art, Storyboarding, Visual Storytelling, Typography, Branding, Digital Design, Traditional Drawing/Painting, 2D/3D Design, Composition, Color Theory
Creative Experience & Projects
Freelance Artist
June 2022 - Present
- Develop commissioned illustrations from concept through final artwork, using iterative sketching, reference gathering, and client feedback to refine composition, lighting, and visual storytelling.
- Manage end-to-end creative workflow including ideation, design exploration, production, and client communication to deliver finalized visual solutions aligned with creative direction.
New Extinction (Concept Art & Character Design)
January 2026 - May 2026
- Developed original world-building and narrative direction for an animated film pitch deck, establishing visual direction, themes, and story elements.
- Designed character model sheets, turnarounds, expression sheets, and dynamic poses to establish visual consistency and personality.
- Produced environmental concept art for an animated world, defining setting, tone, and character-driven storytelling.
Portrait Series
Summer 2025
- Created stylized portrait illustrations of musicians, balancing likeness with expressive interpretation and visual storytelling.
- Explored composition, lighting, and color approaches to communicate identity, mood, and personality through character-focused imagery.
Work Experience
Sunglass Hut | Sales Associate
February 2026 - Present
- Assist customers with eyewear selection through consultative sales, product knowledge, and personalized service.
San Diego Unified School District (SDUSD) | Head Middle School Soccer Coach
October 2025 - February 2026
- Lead practices to develop players' skills, understanding of the game, and sportsmanship.
Leadership
Social Chair, Sigma Alpha Epsilon - Cal Theta Chapter, SDSU
Fall 2023 - 2024