Derek Rippe (Media Arts & Animation 2001)

JOB TITLE:
Designer/Illustrator,Creative Consumer Concepts (C3)
Overland Park, KS


JOB DESCRIPTION:
Design and illustration of children’s collateral for the dining industry, including toys, activity books, cups and apparel. “Mostly I play with toys.”


Derek’s Red Lobster design won a Best Children’s Menu award and was featured on ABC-TV’s “Good Morning America.”


THE ROAD TO SUCCESS:
“I initially wanted to pursue a more animation-related job…C3 was looking for someone who could draw in a variety of styles, and come up with different characters and concepts for their clients. I had an internship as a character designer/writer consultant, and I’m sure my portfolio helped, too. One of the major benefits about this position now is that it is providing me with excellent experience for the near future as an art director.”

ADVICE FOR STUDENTS:
"Stay focused on your passion and your strengths, but always keep your mind as open as possible. You never know where your talent can take you…When you do get into the industry…network, network, network."