ART DIRECTION + DESIGN + ILLUSTRATION

From an early age, skateboarding, snowboarding, and art have defined my creative journey. My passion for creating letter forms, sparked by street art, led me to pursue an Associate’s degree in Communication Arts at Lane Community College in Eugene, Oregon. Driven by this passion, I moved to New York City, where I produced my first skateboard video, gained sponsorships, and promoted skateboarding companies—all while continuing to create compelling art. I also earned an Associate’s degree in Childhood Education. At the School of Visual Arts, I earned my Bachelor’s degree while studying under industry legends like James Victore, Paula Scher, and Skip Sorvino. During this time, I freelanced for various companies and artists, gaining diverse experience, including a year in the wine industry.

Now based in Portland, I bring my unique blend of street culture and family roots to my freelance work. My designs tell stories that resonate with our universal human experience, offering rich and nostalgic execution. As a dad, husband, skateboarder, snowboarder, artist, and person of color, I value diverse strengths and lead with curiosity and creativity. With experience at the JORDAN Brand, in the mountaineering department of a sporting goods store, and freelancing for various companies and artists, I am equipped to handle a wide range of design challenges.

Let’s collaborate to create art and design that unite stories, resonate deeply, and bring your vision to life.

ncortinas@gmail.com