I'm Catherine Brieden, a mural designer and illustrator based in Royal Oak, Michigan. I blend traditional fine art with accessible education and community-focused design, drawing on experience in instruction, arts administration, and graphic design. I specialize in developing and managing art education programs, coordinating large-scale projects and events, and fostering engagement through creative programming with local businesses and organizations. I love telling local stories through murals and visuals that celebrate community identity.

Catherine Brieden

I'm Catherine Brieden, a mural designer and illustrator based in Royal Oak, Michigan. I blend traditional fine art with accessible education and community-focused design, drawing on experience in instruction, arts administration, and graphic design. I specialize in developing and managing art education programs, coordinating large-scale projects and events, and fostering engagement through creative programming with local businesses and organizations. I love telling local stories through murals and visuals that celebrate community identity.

Available to hire

I’m Catherine Brieden, a mural designer and illustrator based in Royal Oak, Michigan. I blend traditional fine art with accessible education and community-focused design, drawing on experience in instruction, arts administration, and graphic design.

I specialize in developing and managing art education programs, coordinating large-scale projects and events, and fostering engagement through creative programming with local businesses and organizations. I love telling local stories through murals and visuals that celebrate community identity.

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Mural Designer/Artist at Walmart Centers & NOW Art Agency
February 1, 2025 - Present
Created original large-scale watercolor and traditional medium murals based on client specifications and content requests. Scanned and digitally edited artworks for high-resolution wall vinyl printing. Designed murals for Walmart store entryways reflecting local history and community identity. Current mural locations: Columbus, OH; Tawas City, MI; Charlotte, MI; Robinson, IL; Mason, WV.
Art Education Coordinator at Paint Creek Center for the Arts
May 1, 2024 - Present
Curate, plan, and schedule single-session artworks across multiple venues. Manage budgets and purchase supplies for all Art Education programming. Coordinate instructor hiring, communication, and scheduling. Develop contracts for workshops, private lessons, and organizational events. Oversee partnerships and off-site programming with local businesses (e.g., libraries, wineries, greenhouses). Serve as Festival Coordinator for Art & Apples Festival food vendors and performers, handling contracts, compliance, and logistics. Design flyers and promotional materials for classes and events.
Freelance/Independent Illustrator at Self-employed
March 1, 2019 - Present
Created over 75 original commissions in charcoal, watercolor, and ink. Delivered customized artwork based on client references and guidance. Launched online print shop (Jan 2021) selling products made through traditional printmaking. Fulfilled orders and managed product inventory.
Help Desk Technician at Grand Valley State University IT Dept
April 1, 2019 - October 3, 2025
Provided technical support for faculty and students across campus. Performed maintenance on university computers, printers, and devices. Responded to in-class tech calls and completed opening/closing procedures. Trained new staff and maintained documentation.
Arts and Crafts Counselor at Point O’Pines Camp for Girls
August 1, 2018 - October 3, 2025
Led daily art programming for girls ages 7–15. Planned and instructed a wide variety of creative projects. Maintained safety, supply inventory, and high standards of camp operation.
Graphic Designer at Signarama
November 1, 2021 - October 3, 2025
Designed signage using FlexiSign, Adobe Photoshop, and Illustrator. Created proofs and visual presentations for clients. Operated large-scale printers and laminators for flat and roll-to-roll substrates. Executed signage trimming, routing, and production across multiple materials.

Education

Bachelors of Fine Arts (BFA), Illustration at Grand Valley State University
August 1, 2014 - April 1, 2019

Qualifications

Dean's List
January 11, 2030 - October 3, 2025
Vice President, Quidditch Club
January 11, 2030 - October 3, 2025

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Education, Professional Services, Non-Profit Organization