(MORE THAN YOU could care to KNOW ABOUT ME)
Education
I attended Columbus College of Art and Design with a focus in video and film production with a minor in writing.
Work and Freelancing
Since graduation, I've been freelancing on random TV and web series production projects while taking odd jobs. I began work in the pet care industry where I discovered a knack for pet portraits in pastel pencils. This was the start of my "Doggie Doodles Pet Portraits" service. (Find out more in the Portfolio section or view the example gallery here.)
I started to work at Complete Care Animal Hospital in 2013 where I was first utilized for artistic and creative skills doing marketing and promotional materials such as postcards, banners, posters, flyers, etc. In 2015 I began work at the design firm Client Solution Innovations as the in-house videographer, editor, and graphic and web designer. This opened a lot of doors for me in terms of experience. The company ultimately closed once the owner took on a new business venture and I returned to Complete Care Animal Hospital where they gracelessly created the "Social Media Director" position for me. Since then, I've been responsible for managing social media platforms, the website, marketing, photography, and creating videos. I also spearhead events such as the annual open house and local Christmas parade float entree.
I still freelance on the side.
Skill Sets & Programs
Videography
Video Editing
Motion Graphics
Photography
Traditional Drawing
Pastels
Digital
Acrylic Pouring / Fluid Art
Graphic Design
Logo Design
Web Design
Illustration
Game Design & Development
Microsoft Office
Premiere
Photoshop
After Effects
Audition
Illustrator
Final Draft
In Design
Dreamweaver
Procreate
Harmony
Dimension
Articulate 360
Notable Clientele
Second Chance Initiative
Allegro Media Design
International Camlid Institute
Green Lawn Abbey Preservation Association
Association for Middle Level Education
Salvation Army
Glass Axis
Shows & Screenings
The CCAD 129th and 130Th Student Exhibitions
48 Hour Film Project (x4)
Friends of the Shelter’s “PupArt Show”
400 West Rich’s “Amazing Dog Show” and “Amazing Cat Show”
Ohio Art League 2020 Fall Juried Exhibition
Columbus Underground write-up “Spreading the Word”
“Stuff Ryan Does: The Art of Ryan LaFever,” Athens Public Library art exhibit, September 2022
Why Dinosaurs?
As many do, I went through a dinosaur obsession phase when I was a kid. Dinosaurs were the first things I would draw and make art of. It was pure serendipity I was 6 and at the peak of this dinosaur fascination when Jurassic Park was first released, which turned me into a lifelong passion for the art of filmmaking and solidified my desire to become a creative and artistic person. Needless to say, these prehistoric creatures have a lot of sentimental value and played a huge role in starting me on the path that lead me to where I am today.
I am currently based in Columbus, Ohio, and willing to commission work all throughout the state.
Past Events and highlights
Casa Nueve ART SHOW & SALE
Casa Nueva of Athens, Ohio had a selection of my work on display during April 2024. Along with the amazing suncatchers from Sunspots by Adria, this art display provided a better dining experience than any inferior restaurant without my art.
Athens Library Word Project Event
The Athens Public Library was gracious enough to host an event to help promote the Word Project and connect with participants.
Athens Library art exhibit
In September of 2022, I was the artist on display for the Athens Public Library monthly art exhibition thus making it my first solo show.
Nutt Heads 614 Article
In August 2022 614 Magazine did an article showcasing Nutt Heads Brand and our game products. Even my beautiful face managed to be featured in on of the photos. The online article can be found here.
Columbus Underground Article
In December 2021 the Word Project was highlighted in an article on Columbus Underground by writer Miriam Bowers Abbott.
Click the image above to read more.
OHIO ART LEAGUE FALL JURIED EXHIBITION 2020
My piece “Exit” was accepted in the Ohio Art League 2020 virtual Fall Juried Exhibition. Check out either the online exhibition or video catalog to see some truly amazing work from artists all around Ohio.