illustrator, comic illustrator, character designer, children's book illustrator, cartoonist, art director

billlunsford

illustrator, comic illustrator, character designer, children's book illustrator, cartoonist, art director

Available to hire

illustrator, comic illustrator, character designer, children’s book illustrator, cartoonist, art director

Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Art Teacher at Ascend Leadership Academy
August 1, 2024 - Present
Deliver comprehensive visual arts instruction for grades 6–8, aligned with North Carolina's Standard Course of Study for Arts Education. Responsible for writing and implementing middle school lesson plans that meet state curriculum standards, emphasizing artistic literacy, creative problem-solving, and visual communication. Teach K6, K7, and K8 students through hands-on projects that integrate drawing, painting, digital media, and design principles. Manage classroom operations, art materials, and studio safety protocols to ensure a productive and inclusive learning environment.
Digital Mural Artist at Walmart
May 1, 2023 - Present
Selected as one of a national group of artists to create large-scale digital murals for Walmart stores nationwide. Managed the entire creative process from concept development to final execution, producing site-specific installations using Procreate and Clip Studio Paint for vinyl printing and installation.
Illustrator at Self-Employed / Freelance
June 1, 2021 - March 1, 2023
Provided illustration and design services for national clients including Kohl's, Whirlpool, and R.J. Reynolds. Developed concepts from idea to final execution, including full illustration when needed. Created realistic and cartoon-style artwork using Clip Studio Paint, Procreate, Photoshop, and Illustrator.
Instructor at Randolph Community College
January 1, 2019 - December 1, 2021
Designed and taught curriculum-aligned courses in graphic design and illustration. Created lesson plans based on state guidelines for Drawing Fundamentals, Commercial Illustration, and Color Theory. Led live demonstrations in drawing and painting, fostering hands-on learning and creative exploration.
Art Director at Pine State Apparel
March 1, 2003 - August 1, 2015
Directed creative strategy and product development for national retail apparel lines. Oversaw design and production for clients including Sears, Belk, JC Penney, and Kohl’s. Specialized in wildlife- and golf-themed illustrations using both traditional and digital media.

Education

AAS in Advertising and Graphic Design at Randolph Community College
January 11, 2030 - November 30, 2025

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Education, Media & Entertainment, Retail