ABOUT
Ryan SEVERANCE
I am a classically trained, multi-disciplinary creative director in Chicago, IL. With an education from the Art Institute of Chicago and the Basel School of Design (HGK) in Basel, Switzerland, my thought leadership and aesthetics are global and grounded in the process. My aesthetic and style are typically modern, elevated, and timely while maintaining authenticity. With a unique ability to inject humor and life into my work, the resolve is distinctive and refreshing.
I am currently based in Chicago, IL. Feel free to reach out for business inquiries and opportunities. Resume below.
Professional Experience
GLOBAL CREATIVE DIRECTOR, LIVEWIRE
SUMMER 2021 – PRESENT
Since LiveWire electric motorcycles split off from Harley-Davidson in 2021, I've directed all consumer-facing content and campaigns globally. I lead a team of graphic, motion, digital designers, and external partners to ensure all brand touchpoints are unified and cohesive to convey our Make Every Second Count positioning. From going public on the New York Stock Exchange as LVWR to launching several new products and collaborations, the LiveWire brand, as seen today, has been primarily due to my direction and resolve.
ART DIRECTOR, HARLEY-DAVIDSON
SUMMER 2018
As art director at Harley-Davidson, I was involved in developing motorcycle model-year photoshoot direction, seasonal ecomm campaign art direction, brand guidelines, and identity refresh, as well as creating a thoughtful typographic system for print and digital.
SENIOR DESIGNER, AON
FALL 2013
During my tenure at Aon, I oversaw design direction for marketing collateral across multiple business units. My role was diverse, involving collaboration with business owners and marketers worldwide, conceptualizing global marketing campaigns, and creating information graphics to bolster global brand awareness. I also led the art direction for Aon's partnership with the Manchester United football team, showcasing my adaptability and versatility in a variety of projects.
ART DIRECTOR,
MAGNANI CONTINUUM MARKETING
SUMMER 2012
Directed a creative team of three designing for our client, Siemens Industry. Provided art direction for all client-facing pieces, including print and experiential touch points.
DESIGN INTERN,
ALPHABET ARM DESIGN
SUMMER 2011
I was responsible for the concept and final executions of client branding at this small but excessively creative branding and design house. This internship was not a coffee-run position; it was very hands-on learning.
