Inspiration is everywhere if you let it in. Words, visuals, music, environment, people and life experiences create daily influences that can work their way into solutions for any creative challenge. As a thoughtful leader and experienced creative, Brent uses these inspirations to fuel Trilix’s award-winning design and video team and drive brand development for a diverse range of clients as well as Trilix and Trilix Studio. Brent has been an integral member of the creative team since 2006, ultimately rising to his current role as chief creative officer directing the agency’s output and environmental experience.
What is your professional background?
After earning my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in graphic design from Iowa State University, I spent my early years working in small design studios before making a leap to a growing marketing firm specializing in custom variable printing. It was at this job that I began managing creative teams, something that evolved naturally and I have enjoyed doing ever since. After a few years, it was time to move back into being a creative in the full-service marketing and advertising space. With a couple more diverse creative experiences under my belt, I eventually landed at Trilix, rejoining Ron Maahs whom I had worked with years earlier. At Trilix I started as a senior art director and worked through several creative roles before landing in my current position leading a great group of talented creatives.
What is the most exciting part of your current role?
I enjoy collaborating with people who bring different experiences to play as we creatively solve marketing challenges for our clients. Working with those who are willing to try new things and are always looking to grow is a rewarding bonus to any project or campaign. Of course, a strong second to collaboration is simply the process of building … crafting … creating something that others interact with on a regular basis.
Do you have any professional achievements you’re particularly proud of?
Even though it has been several years, I truly enjoyed creating the original brand and label design for an unknown rye whiskey at the time called Templeton Rye. Being a part of the launch of the brand and product was definitely a highlight in my career. It presented many enjoyable factors for me: a great design challenge, an Iowa-based product and a product with a true history to build around. In addition to the original label, I was also privileged to design the 6-year label and their special-edition 10-year label. There have been many great projects and client collaborations since this project, but it still holds a special place in my portfolio of work.