I am a multidisciplinary Creative Director, Graphic Designer, and Artist with more than 20 years of experience across visual strategy, branding, illustration, digital media, fine art, beauty, and experiential work. I translate complex ideas into clear visual narratives and cohesive design systems, guiding projects from concept and client presentation through production and final delivery. I enjoy building meaningful client relationships, developing distinctive visual identities, and creating engaging work across print, digital, exhibition, and community settings. My experience also includes art education, hair styling, hospitality, team leadership, operations, and business ownership, giving me a broad and adaptable perspective on creative collaboration and service.

Try Cheatham

I am a multidisciplinary Creative Director, Graphic Designer, and Artist with more than 20 years of experience across visual strategy, branding, illustration, digital media, fine art, beauty, and experiential work. I translate complex ideas into clear visual narratives and cohesive design systems, guiding projects from concept and client presentation through production and final delivery. I enjoy building meaningful client relationships, developing distinctive visual identities, and creating engaging work across print, digital, exhibition, and community settings. My experience also includes art education, hair styling, hospitality, team leadership, operations, and business ownership, giving me a broad and adaptable perspective on creative collaboration and service.

Available to hire

I am a multidisciplinary Creative Director, Graphic Designer, and Artist with more than 20 years of experience across visual strategy, branding, illustration, digital media, fine art, beauty, and experiential work. I translate complex ideas into clear visual narratives and cohesive design systems, guiding projects from concept and client presentation through production and final delivery.

I enjoy building meaningful client relationships, developing distinctive visual identities, and creating engaging work across print, digital, exhibition, and community settings. My experience also includes art education, hair styling, hospitality, team leadership, operations, and business ownership, giving me a broad and adaptable perspective on creative collaboration and service.

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Work Experience

Stylist at Bishops, Navy Yard
January 1, 2026 - Present
Provide precision haircuts, color, and styling services tailored to each client through consultation and custom design. Build long-term client relationships and maintain strong retention through exceptional service and consistent results. Support a collaborative, inclusive studio environment and contribute to team growth and salon culture.
Project Art Teacher at EYL Project
January 1, 2026 - Present
Design and lead project-based visual arts instruction for youth using mixed media, creative problem-solving, and individualized support. Increase student engagement, confidence, and skill development through hands-on projects and real-world applications. Collaborate with educators and families to align art instruction with social-emotional learning and academic goals.
Master Stylist / Elite Trainer at Scissors & Scotch
January 1, 2021 - January 1, 2026
Delivered advanced cutting, grooming, and color services to a diverse clientele while exceeding service and sales goals. Trained and mentored stylists in technique, client experience, product knowledge, and sales performance. Developed systems to improve workflow, sanitation, and safety standards. Increased retail sales by 25% year over year and maintained a 90% or higher client retention rate.
Freelance Graphic Designer / Lead Design Illustrator at Tryunique.me
January 1, 2021 - Present
Lead creative direction and design for more than 100 brands, entrepreneurs, and cultural organizations across print, digital, and experiential platforms. Develop brand identities, campaigns, social content, editorial layouts, presentations, and large-format collateral. Manage projects from discovery and strategy through design, production, vendor coordination, and final delivery. Maintain a 95% repeat-client rate and generate 60% of new business through referrals.
Ben & Jerry's Franchise Co-Owner at Ben & Jerry's
January 1, 2005 - January 1, 2007
Co-owned and operated a franchise location, managing daily operations, staff, and customer experience. Oversaw P&L, budgeting, inventory, and ordering while maintaining cost control and profitability. Recruited, trained, and managed a team of more than 15 employees. Implemented local marketing and community outreach events that increased store traffic and brand awareness by 35%.
Professional Artist at Tryunique.me
January 1, 2003 - Present
Create original mixed-media and digital artwork for exhibitions, public art projects, commissions, and community programming. Exhibit work in galleries and art fairs nationwide while maintaining a growing collector and client base. Manage creative direction, budgets, timelines, and presentations for collectors, curators, and public audiences.
Bartender at Various Establishments, Throughout the United States
January 1, 1998 - January 1, 2008
Provided service in high-volume bars, restaurants, and private events across major cities and hospitality venues. Mixed and served classic and craft cocktails, wine, and spirits with a focus on quality, speed, and guest experience. Exceeded sales and upsell goals, increased average checks by 20–30%, managed up to $2,000 or more in nightly cash handling with complete accuracy, and collaborated with management on seasonal drink menus and bar operations.

Education

MFA, Media Design at Full Sail University
January 11, 2030 - August 27, 2026
BA, Studio Arts at University of the District of Columbia
January 11, 2030 - August 27, 2026
AS, Cosmetology at Cinta Aveda Institute
January 11, 2030 - August 27, 2026

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Education, Professional Services, Retail, Travel & Hospitality