NM

Nick Melas

Available to hire

I’m Nick Melas, a New York-based illustrator and graphic designer with 4+ years of experience specializing in character-driven artwork, apparel graphics, and visual identity.

About

I’m Nick Melas, a New York-based illustrator and graphic designer with 4+ years of experience specializing in character-driven artwork, apparel graphics, and visual identity. My workflow covers everything from initial concept sketches to production-ready deliverables—including high-fidelity merchandise mockups, vinyl-print mechanicals, and scalable vector assets. Whether developing fresh illustrations or executing tight-turnaround brand commissions, I focus on strong visual storytelling and reliable, deadline-driven delivery.

  • 6 years' experience
  • Joined September 2026

Industry experience

  • Media & Entertainment
  • Education
  • Retail
  • Government
  • Non-Profit Organization

Work experience

Graphic Designer / Apparel Design · Freelance - NYC Department of EducationJun 2023 – Jun 2024 · 1 yr 1 mo

Conceptualized and illustrated custom vector icons, mascots, and visual identity artwork for community-focused apparel and public school branding initiatives. Restored legacy hand-drawn graphics into clean, scalable vector illustrations while preserving the original aesthetic intent. Worked through feedback loops with administrative stakeholders to ensure the artwork aligned with community cultural values.

Sr. Graphic Designer / Apparel Designer · Making it Look Kool LLC.Mar 2023 – May 2025 · 2 yrs 3 mos

Directed end-to-end conceptualization and design of physical merchandise lines, preparing production-ready mechanical files for vinyl printing. Created realistic, high-fidelity physical product mockups through extensive photo editing to support retail sales and B2C marketing. Managed multiple concurrent creative commissions while meeting production deadlines from thumbnail sketches to final fully rendered artwork.

Graphic Designer / Illustrator · Nick Melas StudioJul 2020 – Present · 6 yrs 5 mos

Runs an independent illustration studio delivering custom digital paintings, scalable vector art, and character-driven graphics for commercial clients and distributors. Drafts and renders character-driven illustrations using foundational anatomy and dynamic posing principles. Executes end-to-end digital marketing collateral while keeping consistent brand messaging across web platforms and meeting tight deadlines.

Education

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design (Minor in Animation) · CUNY Queens College2015 – 2020

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