Hello! My name is Farooq Kariem, and I am an Illustrator, Instructor, and Visual Artist. For years I have been crafting my own worlds and characters from the ground up with an animated fidelity and whimsical nature. My skills include story/concept-based illustration, comic creation, character design, storyboarding, and even graphic art and design. My biggest draws for inspiration come from animation, anime/manga, western comics, and the gaming industry. Not only do I have an eye for creating scenarios and characters that are both engaging and entertaining, but I am very collaborative when it comes to working among others no matter the circumstances. I even have personal experience with storytelling using illustration and graphic design work while creating comics of my own or for clients. When it comes to creativity, storytelling, or even portraying a message, I am confident in my abilities. I also acknowledge the value of learning from others when it comes to any industry, and I am committed to take any opportunity as a learning experience as both an artist and business partner.

Farooq S. Kariem

Hello! My name is Farooq Kariem, and I am an Illustrator, Instructor, and Visual Artist. For years I have been crafting my own worlds and characters from the ground up with an animated fidelity and whimsical nature. My skills include story/concept-based illustration, comic creation, character design, storyboarding, and even graphic art and design. My biggest draws for inspiration come from animation, anime/manga, western comics, and the gaming industry. Not only do I have an eye for creating scenarios and characters that are both engaging and entertaining, but I am very collaborative when it comes to working among others no matter the circumstances. I even have personal experience with storytelling using illustration and graphic design work while creating comics of my own or for clients. When it comes to creativity, storytelling, or even portraying a message, I am confident in my abilities. I also acknowledge the value of learning from others when it comes to any industry, and I am committed to take any opportunity as a learning experience as both an artist and business partner.

Available to hire

Hello!

My name is Farooq Kariem, and I am an Illustrator, Instructor, and Visual Artist. For years I have been crafting my own worlds and characters from the ground up with an animated fidelity and whimsical nature. My skills include story/concept-based illustration, comic creation, character design, storyboarding, and even graphic art and design.

My biggest draws for inspiration come from animation, anime/manga, western comics, and the gaming industry. Not only do I have an eye for creating scenarios and characters that are both engaging and entertaining, but I am very collaborative when it comes to working among others no matter the circumstances. I even have personal experience with storytelling using illustration and graphic design work while creating comics of my own or for clients.

When it comes to creativity, storytelling, or even portraying a message, I am confident in my abilities. I also acknowledge the value of learning from others when it comes to any industry, and I am committed to take any opportunity as a learning experience as both an artist and business partner.

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Work Experience

Visual Art Instructor (9-12) at Baltimore City Public Schools
June 30, 2025 - June 30, 2025
Produced a multitude of lessons, projects, and activities based around visual and fine arts at high school level, all while aiding in behavioral management within the policies stated by the State of Maryland’s Department of Education.
Art Instructor + School/Youth Tech at Chesapeake Treatment Center
September 30, 2024 - September 30, 2024
Produced a multitude of lessons, projects, and activities based around visual and fine arts at high school level, all while assisting in behavioral management within the policies stated by the State of Maryland’s Department of Juvenile Services.
Lead Graphic Designer & Consultant at Hayat CPE & Spiritual Care Services
January 1, 2023 - October 27, 2025
In charge of carrying out graphic design duties such as logo design, web design, promotional material, and any other creative consultation for the company and its goals.
Freelance Visual Artist/Vendor & Artist Alley at Rooq Productions
January 1, 2016 - October 27, 2025
Produced multiple projects and collaborated with clients, locally and online, on work related, but not limited to, story-based illustration, concept art, character design, graphics, and merchandise including prints, stickers, keychains, and decorative trinkets.

Education

Bachelor’s in Fine Arts (Sequential Concentration) at University of Maryland, Eastern Shore
August 1, 2015 - May 1, 2020

Qualifications

Conditional Certificate: Art PreK-12
July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2026

Industry Experience

Education, Media & Entertainment