I'm a multidisciplinary designer and creative leader from Lawrence, Massachusetts with 8+ years of experience building apparel graphics and storytelling systems at the intersection of sport, culture, and streetwear. I'm known for leading teams, shaping visual direction for global basketball apparel, and translating cultural energy into scalable design systems from concept through production. I've worked with global brands including Puma, Converse, and Reebok, with a strong foundation in independent creative entrepreneurship through DRYLQD Studio.

Eli Portuhondo

I'm a multidisciplinary designer and creative leader from Lawrence, Massachusetts with 8+ years of experience building apparel graphics and storytelling systems at the intersection of sport, culture, and streetwear. I'm known for leading teams, shaping visual direction for global basketball apparel, and translating cultural energy into scalable design systems from concept through production. I've worked with global brands including Puma, Converse, and Reebok, with a strong foundation in independent creative entrepreneurship through DRYLQD Studio.

Available to hire

I’m a multidisciplinary designer and creative leader from Lawrence, Massachusetts with 8+ years of experience building apparel graphics and storytelling systems at the intersection of sport, culture, and streetwear.
I’m known for leading teams, shaping visual direction for global basketball apparel, and translating cultural energy into scalable design systems from concept through production. I’ve worked with global brands including Puma, Converse, and Reebok, with a strong foundation in independent creative entrepreneurship through DRYLQD Studio.

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Language

English
Fluent
Spanish; Castilian
Advanced

Work Experience

Contract Graphic Designer – Apparel & Footwear at CONVERSE
May 1, 2019 - September 1, 2019
Developed apparel and footwear graphics supporting global inline releases.
Founder and Creative Director at D.D.S. LLC
January 1, 2021 - Present
Built and scaled an independent studio delivering brand identities, apparel graphics, and merchandise for clients in fashion, music, and events. Directed 100+ client projects annually from concept to production, including screen printing and embroidery for limited runs and retail programs. Led client strategy and creative execution, translating brand values into culturally relevant design assets. Managed vendors, budgets, and timelines to ensure profitable and high-quality outcomes.
Lead Graphic Designer – Basketball & Sportstyle at PUMA
September 1, 2019 - Present
Lead graphic direction and visual storytelling for global basketball apparel initiatives across inline and athlete-driven collections. Define seasonal graphic language and design systems that connect product storytelling to performance and culture. Partner directly with athletes including LaMelo Ball and Tyrese Haliburton to shape signature narratives and elevate brand voice within the hoops space. Guide cross-functional collaboration between footwear, marketing, development, and merchandising teams to ensure cohesive storytelling across categories. Mentor and develop junior designers, helping scale team capabilities and creative consistency. Drive production-ready execution by leveraging deep expertise in screen printing, print techniques, and manufacturing workflows. Led graphic direction for 'We Are Legends,' Puma’s first Black-led collection, amplifying cultural storytelling and brand heritage.
Design Apprentice – Apparel Graphics at PUMA
September 1, 2019 - Present
Created apparel designs from sketches to production for athletic wear programs, including UFC and CrossFit event graphics, plus quarterly retail drops.
Design & Creative at REEBOK
June 1, 2018 - May 1, 2019
Apparel graphics · Branding · Illustration · Typography · Animation · Trend forecasting · Athlete collaborations · Campaign storytelling.

Education

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design at UMASS LOWELL
January 11, 2030 - March 22, 2026
Associates Degree in Graphic Design at N.E.C.C.
January 11, 2030 - March 22, 2026

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Retail, Media & Entertainment, Consumer Goods, Manufacturing, Professional Services