Meet Founder Tony Montgomery
Location: Bellevue
Born: Omaha
Education:
MCC: Associate’s in Graphic Design
UNO: Current Bachelor’s of Studio Art Major
Employment: Freelance/Student
Websites:
www.illustrateomaha.com
www.istockphoto.com/tonymontgomery_52
www.twitter.com/tmontdesign
Hey Omaha, thank you for your interest in Illustrate Omaha. We are excited to be a part of Omaha’s creative community and we hope that our contribution can bring together some of the great artists, designers, and illustrators that Omaha has to offer. We are a group of motivated creatives that understand the importance of community. If you would like to be a part of Illustrate Omaha, we are a very inclusive group with the understanding that every creative has something to bring to the table.
We have been spotlighting some of Omaha’s amazing creatives, and I thought that I should introduce myself as well. My name is Tony Montgomery. I started Illustrate Omaha not only to bring together Omaha creatives, but also to recognize artists, designers and illustrators in the community that deserve recognition. From Omaha’s most well known artists, to emerging creatives, we will cover the spectrum of our creative community.
I am a graphic designer, illustrator and full-time student at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. I have had the great opportunity to intern at RDG Planning & Design for nine months, work with AIGA, as well as various projects in the community. I feel that it is very important to get involved in the community and assist emerging creatives in their transition from school to a professional career. I hope that you enjoy the interview!
How did I realize I wanted to be a designer?
When I was young I would pretty much draw on anything including the walls. I developed as an artist, taking classes throughout my young life. I realized I wanted to be a graphic designer in my sophomore year of high school. I had a general idea of what a graphic designer did, but could never expect that it would be such a big part of my life.
How would I describe my style or approach to design?
Working with Lea Schuster of RDG Planning & Design taught me the true value of keeping your design off the computer until you have something worth designing to completion. As a design student, I was eager to jump on the computer and design. Staying away from the computer has improved my process as well as increasing the amount of illustration and art that I bring to the final piece.
What is the best advice I have ever received?
“Good Design Takes Time.” Luann Matthies, Omaha.
Of course there is that whole deadline thing… but it helped to let me realize that most of the time, developing a strong design isn’t instantaneous. Build a concept that your client deserves, not the first piece of crap that comes in your head.
What is my best way to break out of a creative rut?
I head to Starbucks for a Venti Caramel Frappuccino/Macchiato.
Grab the moleskine and my Faber-Castell pens. Works like magic!
Where do I draw inspiration for my work?
I have never been a star chaser. I mostly admire the work of local creatives. I think it may provide some sense of security to know that you can make it in Omaha. When I am looking for instant inspiration, I go to ffffound.com, the AIGA archives, How Magazine, and Border’s design section.
Thanks again for your interest in Illustrate Omaha. Check back soon for more great content!
