OWNER/FOUNDER
ROWDY DOMSTEAD DESIGN
NASHVILLE TN
Born in Dallas TX, I moved to Nashville in 2014 to attend Belmont University. I graduated with a degree in Music Business with an emphasis in Pre-Law, so I’m not using any of the skills I learned at school. I currently own and operate my own company specializing in design, project management, and branding not only for musical artists but also for businesses outside the music industry. Before transitioning to full-time freelance work, I worked as an Art Director/designer/videographer/animator/photographer at a small record label for 5 years. In addition to my artistic endeavors, I’ve played music all my life. I played guitar in a metal band in high school and took up bass and drums when I moved to Nashville.
As far as my company is concerned, I pride myself on being prompt, professional, prepared, and kind. Whether it’s a brand overhaul for a large company, promotional assets for a local chamber of commerce, or single art for an unsigned artist, everyone I work with is met by my clean, accessible esthetic and leaves with both the knowledge that they were treated as an equal and a product we can both be proud of. I wear many hats, I always have, but no matter the deliverable, it’s important to me that my personality and character be the constant themes.
Looking forward to 2023, are you optimistic about the role and impact of Graphic Design and Visual Communication in Business? Culture? Causes? Have the events and disruptions of the past few years changed the role or trajectory of Graphic Design?
I read something recently that discussed the role of major brands in social media, and the fact that the public now seeks insight more from individuals with large followings or expertise in certain areas, as opposed to large companies or other entities. To me, this feels like the cornerstone of a successful approach to graphic design moving into this new year: If individuals are taking the place of large brands, those people now need the support, infrastructure, and visual appeal of a brand to legitimize themselves online. Conversely, in order to regain public opinion and appear more accessible, large brands need to appear more laid back and personal. The point is: everyone needs a rebrand, and that’s why I think the value of graphic design grows now more than ever. A gigantic shift in consumer attitude is leaving everyone in need of new photos, new assets, new branding guidelines, new art, new websites, etc. So yes, I’m very optimistic about the role of graphic design in business because, as trends change, so too must anyone who hopes to keep up.
Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?
As far as influential graphic designers, this is a bit of a weird one, but about a year ago I discovered Barnard Co. on TikTok. This man is an absolute genius when it comes to logo design. I’m truly speechless on some of his work and cannot say enough about how his social media presence has helped me develop my business in the last year.
Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agency(s), or inhouse department(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?
Bauhaus is probably my most referenced firm, I know that’s an easy answer, but Adobe released a pack of Bauhaus-inspired fonts a few years ago and I literally used one on a project yesterday.
