Hire the Best Art Directors in New York

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Axel B.

Brooklyn, New York

$250/hr
5.0
272 jobs

🔸 Expert-Vetted | Top 1% on Upwork 🔸 Published in Vogue, Elle, WWD, Teen Vogue 🔸 Adobe Featured | Hand-picked among the best in their field 🔸 Upwork Skill Certified in Brand Identity I don’t do branding. I do propaganda. Most founders come to me at one of two moments: right before launch, when everything is riding on first impressions, or after realizing the brand they built in year one is holding them back in year three. Either way, the problem is the same. A logo isn't a brand. A name isn't a strategy. And a business without a cohesive brand identity doesn't just look unfinished, it leaves money, credibility, and opportunity on the table. I'm Axel, a brand identity designer and naming expert with 20+ years of experience building brands that transform a founder's vision into lasting market value. I specialize in strategy-based brand identity for ambitious startups and scaling companies with their sights set on the top tier of their market, across lifestyle, hospitality, fashion, beauty, finance, food & beverage, health & wellness, and tech. ◼️ What working with me looks like: Before we make any creative decisions, we align on strategy. Who you are, who you're for, and what makes you impossible to ignore. Then we build: naming, verbal identity, visual identity, brand guidelines, everything your team needs to show up consistently, whether that's on packaging, a pitch deck, or a homepage. Founders who work with me walk away with a brand system built to grow with the business, one that commands the attention, credibility, and investment their work deserves. ◼️ Built for founders who are serious: My background includes brand identity work for Airbnb, PepsiCo, Ralph Lauren, Martha Stewart, Elizabeth Arden, and Sur La Table, in addition to the startups and early-stage brands I'm most energized by on Upwork. If you're launching, fundraising, rebranding, or scaling, your brand is either building your business or costing it. Let's make sure it's doing the former. Send me a message to start the conversation. ◼️ WHAT I BUILD ▪️ Brand Naming & Naming Strategy ▪️ Brand Strategy & Positioning ▪️ Visual Identity & Logo Design ▪️ Verbal Identity & Brand Voice ▪️ Brand Identity Design & Systems ▪️ Rebranding & Brand Identity Refresh ▪️ Creative Direction ◼️ HOW WE WORK TOGETHER ▪️ Every project starts with strategy. If you want someone to execute a brief, I may not be the right fit. If you want someone to help you think through what your brand should stand for and then bring it to life, we should talk. ▪️ I work on fixed-rate contracts for most brand projects. My hourly rate applies to consulting and advisory engagements. ▪️ A free 15-minute discovery call is recommended. This ensures we're the right fit before either of us commits. ▪️ I don't offer unlimited revisions. I follow a proven methodology designed to get it right. ▪️ The best outcomes come from founders who trust the process and bring their vision openly. The brand becomes yours, we build it together.

  • Brand Guidelines
  • Graphic Design
  • Branding
  • Logo Design
  • Brand Naming
  • Brand Identity
  • Brand Identity & Guidelines
  • Packaging Design
  • Label & Packaging Design
  • Visual Identity
  • Brand Design
  • Brand Style Guide
  • Brand Book Design
  • Logo
  • Brand Development
  • Brand Positioning
  • Brand Identity Design
  • Brand Consulting
  • Adobe Illustrator
  • Corporate Brand Identity
Marcelo M.

Queens, New York

$100/hr
5.0
22 jobs

Most brands have a story worth telling. Few know how to make it land with the people it was actually made for. I'm a Creative Director with 15+ years of building campaigns and experiences for brands that want to reach real people, not a stock-photo version of their audience. I've directed work for Nike, Visa, Chase, and major F&B brands, led experiential activations at Comic-Con and NBA All-Star events, and repositioned SunnyD from a nostalgic 90s brand into the number one brand for fan engagement in its category by actually understanding the community it was trying to reach. What I do isn't just design. It's about finding the cultural angle that makes a brand feel like it belongs to the people it's for — then building the campaign, activation, or creative system that delivers that feeling across every touchpoint. I work best with: • Brands that want campaigns built around a real cultural insight, not a demographic report • Agencies that need a senior CD to step in and lead creative on experiential or integrated projects • CPG and food and beverage brands are trying to reach audiences that mainstream advertising consistently misses If you have a campaign, activation, or brand story that needs a senior creative partner, not just a designer, send it over. I'll tell you exactly how I'd approach it.

  • Art Direction
  • Ad Campaign
  • Creative Direction
  • Creative Strategy
  • Food & Beverage
  • Brand Strategy
  • Advertising Design
  • Branding
  • Event Marketing
  • Marketing Strategy
  • Integrated Marketing
  • Multicultural Marketing
  • Storytelling
  • Content Strategy
  • Social Media Marketing
Chi Y.

Lake Katrine, New York

$90/hr
5.0
26 jobs

I bring 20 years of experience as a multidisciplinary designer, having worked across a broad range of industries and creative roles. My expertise spans logo design, brand collateral, packaging and web design/UI/UX digital marketing. I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with several notable brands, providing creative solutions that are both visually compelling and strategically aligned. CLIENTS (current + previous) includes: AirBnb, Bath & Body Works, Bogs Footwear, Calvin Klein, Cleanwell, Coffeeland, Dransfield & Ross, Fab Collection, Flag & Anthem, Freedom Laser Therapy, Fred Meyer, Fresh, Hanna Andersson, Interlude Home, iRestore, Kimkhwaab, Kocolabs, Liora Manné, Naya, Oeuf, Ooloop, Social Edge Consulting, Pottery Barn Kids, Pinecrest Fabrics, Rittle, Rizzoli Publications, Scholastic, Shedrain, Sephora, Stoneside, Strategy Growth & Ventures, The Value Engineers, Walters Wicker, Wildcat Territory and Williams-Sonoma.

  • Art Direction
  • Digital Design
  • Brand Identity & Guidelines
  • Label & Packaging Design
  • Sales & Marketing Collateral
  • Web Design
  • Illustration
  • Product Design
  • Video Production
  • Email Design
  • Social Media Advertising
  • Animation
  • Photography
  • Photo Retouching
  • Surface Design
Kristin M.

Brooklyn, New York

$90/hr
4.9
330 jobs

I design websites on the WordPress platform using Elementor Pro. I also provide UX/UI screen designs using Figma for websites, Webflow websites, marketplaces, Web3 applications, accessible websites and more. I pride myself on creating unique and beautiful designs for my clients that elevate brands online, and do not feel like they are derived from off-the-shelf templates. I have many years of UI/UX interface design experience and create websites that look great, are easy to use, mobile responsive and SEO / AI ready. My expertise includes: - Website design and construction (WordPress / Elementor Pro) - E-Commerce website design (WooCommerce, Shopify) - UX/UI Interface Design (Figma) - Motion Design & Interactivity (Elementor Pro) - Art Direction & Project Management (Consulting) - SEO Optimization - AI Website Optimization - Accessible Websites (WCAG Level 2.2 AA) - Web3 Application Design (Wallets, Minters, Marketplaces) - Logo and Brand Development - Mobile Responsive Design I am based in Brooklyn, New York and with 15+ years of experience running a website design and digital marketing agency, I have designed and managed the online presence for businesses ranging from small startups to large brands. I take pride in customizing designs to meet each client's unique vision and goals, ensuring your website embodies your brand and values. Having worked with a diverse clientele, including TIDAL, A/D/O (owned by MINI/BMW Group), BHP Billiton, and Evan Williams Bourbon, I bring invaluable insights across various industries. My experience spans a wide range of industries, including design, furniture, architecture, pharmaceutical, Web3, finance and tech. One of my top priorities is ensuring that the website serves my client's post launch. That's why I provide ongoing support and maintenance plans, and also offer training for you and your staff so you can easily make updates in minutes. Beyond website design, I am an internationally recognized professional visual artist, and I bring my unique creative passion to every project to create stunning websites that truly engage your audience. If you're interested in discussing your website design project further, please don't hesitate to get in touch. I look forward to hearing from you!

  • WooCommerce
  • WordPress
  • Web Design
  • Website Redesign
  • Elementor
  • Website
  • Figma
  • User Interface Design
  • UX & UI
  • Logo Design
  • WordPress Website Design
  • Responsive Design
  • Website Maintenance
  • Custom Web Design
  • Web Development
Nigel X.

Queens County, New York

$60/hr
4.9
104 jobs

Hi, I'm Nigel. Your branding rockstar from the home of Knicks! Most brands don’t fail because of design. They fail because their identity is inconsistent, forgettable, or unclear. I help startups, founders, and businesses build brands that are recognizable, memorable, and designed to create trust across every customer touchpoint. I specialize in brand identity design, logo systems, packaging, marketing collateral, and visual branding that are built around one goal: 👉 Create a brand that people remember and choose. Over the past few years, I've worked with 75+ startups and businesses across different industries, helping them build visual identities and brand systems that support growth, credibility, and long-term recognition. My work has been centered around: Brand identity development and rebranding projects Logo design and complete visual identity systems Packaging design and product branding Marketing collateral and promotional materials Retail, storefront, and environmental branding Digital brand assets and social media systems 🧩 My approach (what makes my work different): Most designers start with visuals. I start with brand strategy. Every branding project is built through a simple framework: 👉 Brand Clarity → Brand Positioning → Visual Identity System This ensures your brand doesn't just look professional; it communicates the right message, attracts the right audience, and remains consistent across every platform. Because in competitive markets, branding is not decoration; it's differentiation. 🚀 Services I offer: Brand Identity Design Logo Design & Logo Systems Brand Guidelines & Style Guides Packaging Design Marketing & Print Collateral Design Storefront & Environmental Branding Social Media Brand Assets Brand Refresh & Rebranding I will help you build great brands from clutter breaking brand identity systems to your brand's customer facing assets ranging from packaging, store fronts, marketing collateral and anything that you need to look and work best. Get in touch and let's paint a great picture together. 📩 Feel free to reach out. I'm happy to review your brand, existing assets, or ideas before we begin. Brand Identity Design | Branding Expert | Logo Design | Logo Designer | Visual Identity | Brand Strategy | Brand Guidelines | Packaging Design | Product Packaging | Marketing Collateral | Print Design | Corporate Branding | Rebranding | Brand Refresh | Retail Branding | Storefront Design | Social Media Branding | Creative Direction

  • Art Direction
  • Brand Guidelines
  • Graphic Design
  • Brand Identity Design
  • Branding
  • Brand Strategy
  • Logo Design
  • Corporate Brand Identity
  • Visual Identity
  • Packaging Design
  • Display Product Packaging
  • Rebranding
  • Creative Direction
  • Sales & Marketing Collateral
  • Print Design
  • Adobe Illustrator
  • Adobe Photoshop
  • Adobe InDesign
  • Social Media Design
  • Typography
Kiersten B.

Buffalo, New York

$150/hr
5.0
53 jobs

I'm an Expert-Vetted brand strategist and designer, part of Upwork's invite-only top 1% of talent. With 15+ years and a client list that includes Urban Decay, L'Oréal, and Mattel, I help beauty, wellness, and CPG brands command premium prices through strategy-led brand identity, logo design, and packaging design that attracts the right customer and turns them into a buyer. I'm Pratt-trained, Upwork-certified in Brand Identity, and the founder of Eye Savvy Design, a boutique branding studio for companies that want to look and feel genuinely high-end. Before launching my own studio, I spent years designing for high-profile beauty and lifestyle brands in Southern California, so I understand what it takes to make a brand stand out on a retail shelf, on a website, and in a crowded social feed. I'M MORE THAN A DESIGNER. I'M A BRAND STRATEGIST. This is the part most clients underestimate. I don't just make things look good. I build the strategy behind the visuals. Strategy and design carry equal weight in everything I deliver, and every engagement includes both. Before a single logo or color palette, I define your positioning, your audience, and what truly sets you apart. Then I design an identity that brings that strategy to life. A beautiful brand that isn't strategic is just decoration. A strategic one becomes a business asset that drives recognition, loyalty, and sales. WHAT MY CLIENTS SAY Brands I've built have launched new product lines, won shelf space against far bigger competitors, and helped first-year founders look established enough to beat out businesses with decades more experience. But my clients say it best: "This full brand presentation actually brought tears to my eyes, and I am not a very emotional person. It's so beautiful and so much more than I imagined. Literal chills." - Ashley H. "WOW. I really love what you've created and identified for us. I love how you connected it with 'adaptability.' So unique and cool, and it definitely speaks to what our brand is about." - Brittany R. "WOW Kiki, I'm SUPER impressed. Dang." - Eddie, Hella Cocktail Co. "We are blown away with this! Seeing all of the designs come together is amazing. I love the box design and the doctor stamp of approval." - Christy D. "What's the best way for us to refer people to you? I can't wait to share this brand work, it's so good." - Cait "In my first year in business, my brand looked so professional I was winning bids against competitors with 20 to 30 years more experience than me." - Daniel M. WHAT I DO - Brand strategy, positioning, and creative direction - Brand identity and visual identity systems - Logo design and custom logo suites - Packaging design, label design, and dielines - Rebranding and brand refreshes - Brand guidelines and brand style guides - Website and landing page design (Shopify, Squarespace, e-commerce) - Social media graphics, content kits, and digital ads - Pitch decks, investor decks, and presentation design - Print collateral, business cards, and marketing assets INDUSTRIES I SPECIALIZE IN - Beauty, skincare, and cosmetics - Health, wellness, and lifestyle - Food, beverage, and CPG packaging - Cannabis and CPG products - Fashion and boutique retail - Tech startups and digital brands - Web3, NFT, and emerging tech - Hospitality, events, and experiences MY PROCESS 1. Discovery: I get clear on your business goals, target audience, and competitive landscape. 2. Strategy: I develop your positioning, creative direction, and moodboard so we're aligned before any design begins. 3. Design: I bring your brand to life through cohesive, strategic visual elements. 4. Delivery: I hand off polished, launch-ready assets, brand guidelines, and the support you need to roll everything out with confidence. WHAT MAKES A BRAND SUCCESSFUL - Uniqueness: own your lane and stand apart from competitors - Storytelling: lead with meaning, not just visuals - Strategy: design with intent and purpose - Consistency: align every brand touchpoint - Connection: create real emotional resonance with your audience WAYS TO WORK WITH ME Whether you need a fast, focused one-week brand identity intensive or a full multi-phase rebrand, I offer flexible engagements built around your stage and budget. Every option delivers clarity, cohesion, and design built to support your customer journey and long-term growth. A FEW BRANDS I'VE PARTNERED WITH Urban Decay, Hella Cocktail Co., GLO Science, WLDKAT, Boody, Honey Vape, Samarasa Yoga, NBA Top Shot, Young at Art Children's Museum, and Full Belly Club, spanning beauty, wellness, food and beverage, fashion, tech, and Web3. TOOLS I USE Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe XD, Figma, and Canva. LET'S BUILD YOUR BRAND If you're serious about building a brand that's beautiful, strategic, and unforgettable, I'd love to connect. I offer a free consultation to learn about your goals and see if we're the right fit. Just message me or book a consultation to get started, and

  • Art Direction
  • Brand Guidelines
  • Digital Design
  • Logo Design
  • Packaging Design
  • Brand Identity
  • Brand Strategy
  • Shopify Website Design
  • Creative Direction
  • Rebranding
  • Presentation Design
  • Social Media Graphic
  • Typography
  • Style Guide Development
  • Brand Style Guide

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