Josh Shipley

Available to hire

I’m a creative leader who loves bringing brands to life through thoughtful digital experiences.

About

I’m a creative leader who loves bringing brands to life through thoughtful digital experiences. Over the past decade, I’ve had the joy of leading product design for major media brands, finding creative ways to tell their stories across web, mobile, and new platforms. My heart lies in user-centered design - I get excited about crafting interfaces that truly resonate with people. When I’m not sketching UI prototypes, you might find me creating illustrations or exploring animation.

I thrive on collaboration and find real fulfillment in bringing teams together around a shared creative vision. My background spans everything from traditional art to environmental design, giving me a unique perspective on storytelling across different mediums. I believe the best digital experiences come from working closely with diverse teams, combining our strengths to create something special.

  • Joined April 2024

Industry experience

  • Media & Entertainment
  • Non-Profit Organization
  • Software & Internet
  • Consumer Goods

Projects · 3

These are each individual artwork pieces I've done in a variety of styles. I can do each of them confidently and I'm always looking to learn a new style. illustrator designer

  • Creative Director
  • Illustrator

Personal Project. Digital Illustration in the style of Kyle Lambert & Drew Struzan. illustrator

  • Creative Director
  • Illustrator

Work experience· 6 roles

Art Director · Andrews McMeel UniversalJun 2020 – Jul 2025 · 5 yrs 2 mos

Led the visual identity across all digital platforms for puzzle and comic strip content, ensuring seamless and engaging digital experiences. Designed award-winning TheFarSide.com, which won the Webby Audience Choice Award in 2019. Pioneered UX processes for emerging digital business initiatives and managed a small team of designers. Collaborated with content creators and marketing teams to translate artistic visions into user-friendly experiences. Oversaw redesign and relaunch of Uexpress.com, maintaining strong relationships with high-profile clients and partners.

Creative Director · Andrews McMeel UniversalJun 2020 – Present · 6 yrs 6 mos

As the Digital Creative Director at our publishing firm, I steer the entire digital creative strategy. Responsible for shaping our digital presence and user experience across all platforms and products, I lead a diverse team including Digital Art Director, UX/UI designers, content strategists, and digital marketers. I collaborate cross-functionally to create innovative and engaging experiences, align creative direction with business objectives, and oversee product development and digital transformation initiatives. I also partner with third-party game developers and freelance designers, providing creative direction to launch over six original puzzle games per year with captivating brands and marketing collateral.

Lead Product Designer · Andrews McMeel UniversalJan 2019 – Jul 2025 · 6 yrs 7 mos

Drove UX/UI design for puzzle and comic strip websites focusing on hands-on design work from wireframes to final front-end designs. Mentored junior designers and led the digital creative team through major rebrands including TheFarSide.com and corporate identity updates. Collaborated closely with cartoonist Gary Larson, overseeing design, UX, site architecture, and content acquisition.

Graphic Designer, Marketing · Andrews McMeel UniversalJan 2018 – Jul 2025 · 7 yrs 7 mos
Product Designer · Andrews McMeel UniversalJan 2018 – Jul 2025 · 7 yrs 7 mos
Brand and Design Manager · Outreach InternationalNov 2014 – Jul 2025 · 10 yrs 9 mos

Education

Master of Fine Arts · Academy of Art University2009 – 2012
Bachelor of Arts · Graceland University2004 – 2008

Certifications and awards

Will Eisner Nominee2019 – 2025

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