Frank Ozmun
Frank Ozmun
Art Director / Graphic Designer / Brand Strategist
Hermosa Beach, Los Angeles, CA
WHAT DO YOU DO?
“I am a Graphic Designer and Art Director based in Los Angeles focusing on fashion, apparel and retail for clients worldwide.”
WHAT STEPS DID YOU TAKE TO GET TO WHERE YOU ARE NOW?
I have been involved in the fields of graphic design, fashion, printing and branding for 30 years. In the beginning, I started as a printer cutting my teeth working with small businesses and brands but became noticed as an excellent designer. I made a very conscious choice to pursue my deep interest in graphic design by moving to New York in the 90's. It was a great time to be a young creative surrounded by so many powerful designers. This pushed me to be my best and I found my way into corporate fashion quickly, excelling there as well. I bounced around designing packaging, apparel, concept/trend either as a designer or art director. After 10 years in corporate I decided to go out on my own, and work for myself again and never looked back. I leveraged my 15-20 client and colleague list to build what I do today. I help brands grow and increase their bottom line by designing their apparel graphics, packaging, branding as well as trend development. I love what I do and feel very lucky every day.
How do you stand out in your field?
I am a seasoned professional having experience of 30 years in printing, fashion, retail and licensing - having had the joy of living in New York, London, Los Angeles, Chicago and the midwest. I bring a unique perspective of all my tastes and life and career experiences to every job and client I work with.
WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON RIGHT NOW?
Multiple apparel collection projects for clients in NYC, Boston and San Francisco! I am lucky to always have work.
WHAT'S YOUR STYLE/PERSPECTIVE/TASTE? DO YOU HAVE A PROJECT THAT REPRESENTS THIS?
My personal style is earthy and natural yet clean and focused. I infuse my clients needs with some of my personal preferences but it is about the client and what will work for them and their brands over my own tastes. How can I contribute to help make them successful rather than being only influenced by my tastes?
WE ARE ALL SLASHIES WITH MULTIPLE SKILLS, WHICH ONE DO YOU WISH YOU COULD DO MORE OFTEN?
I would love to be able to focus more on photography with the work I have done over the years, to be able to compile and tell more of a story about all I have been able to do.
WHAT IS FRUSTRATING YOU RIGHT NOW?
I am almost 3 years in to living (and loving) in Los Angeles yet expanding my network is key! New clients and contacts.
IF YOU COULD HIRE SOMEONE FOR $20/HR, WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE THEM DO TO MAKE YOUR DAY EASIER?
Illustration! Anything to free up my time.
LET'S BRING OUT THE TIME MACHINE. WHAT DO YOU WISH YOU COULD HAVE TOLD YOURSELF, WHEN, AND WHY?
Stay focused on my goals - and know I am always in the right place at the right time!
IF YOU COULD TALK TO AN EXPERT TO GAIN MORE INSIGHT ON SOMETHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE ABOUT?
The deeper intricacies of Photoshop for sure; all the subtle nuances and tricks I often don't have the time to learn being so busy.
WHAT KIND OF OPPORTUNITIES/PROJECTS ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?
Full time, freelance, both as Art Director or Graphic Designer. Primarily in physical things such as collections for apparel, accessories, paper goods, etc. I would love to work more with green beauty brands, cannabis, or sustainable fashion companies.
DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL JOB/CLIENT/COLLABORATION.
One that values mutual respect and communication and pays on time! I want any client to be thrilled to work with me and very much likewise - rather than just finding someone "cheap" to bang out work. I value my clients goals and needs and want that in return. We are all in it together!
WHAT IS YOUR HOURLY RATE, RETAINER, OR SALARY RANGE?
Depends on the scope and size of the project. Get in touch and we can discuss your budget, needs and goals to find the perfect fit for your company.
HOW SHOULD SOMEONE APPROACH YOU ABOUT WORKING TOGETHER?
HOW DO YOU STAY CREATIVE?
Exercise, connecting with nature, my family, and definitely travel!
This member profile was originally published in February 2020.