barb kelly
creative
design, art direction and illustration
I have worked continuously as a professional Graphic Designer and
Art Director for the past 32 years, combining my knowledge of the digital environment with a traditional background as a designer, renderer and illustrator.
My early jobs included hands-on experience of the pre-press and printing process in the creative department of a printing company.
I also got a start in advertising as a marker renderer, paste-up artist and graphic designer, using my illustration talents as necessary.
After 10 years I decided to concentrate my efforts in magazines, enjoying the more tactile end result of print. I have worked on a variety of publications, with themes as diverse as health, fishing, travel, sports, movies, and most recently children.
My next big step was to become Art and Creative Director at
Bayard Press/Owlkids. For 15 years, I oversaw the design of all three award-winning magazines, including covers, marketing, and brand refreshes. During that time, I helped to spearhead a new Owlkids Books department, working closely with editors, photographers, illustrators and freelance designers.
My achievements come from being a team player who thrives under the pressures of tight deadlines. I have a quick eye for detail and a knack for “outside the box” design solutions. And most importantly,
I endeavor to create a fun, collaborative work environment.
Born and raised in Toronto. I still make this my home with my husband and step kids, enjoying my garden and life in the city.
awards
Norma Fleck Non-Fiction Award, for Best Canadian non-fiction,
The Last Train 2014, Why We Live Where We Live 2015
Edpress Distinguished Achievement Awards, 2001
Feature Article Design, Owl magazine
Parents Choice, Gold Honour, Chirp magazine, 2005-2008
Parents Choice, Silver Honour, Owl magazine, 2000, 2004
nominations
National Magazine Awards, Shortlisted, 2001
Words and Pictures, Owl magazine
Edpress Distinguished Achievement Awards
One-theme issue, Chirp magazine, 2007
Feature Article Design, Owl magazine, 2005
Cover Design, Whole Publication and Periodical of the Year, 2005
Feature Article Design, Owl magazine, 2002
Cover Design, Owl magazine, 2001
honours
National Magazine Awards, Honourable Mention, 2003
Words and Pictures, Owl magazine
claims
to fame
Skills
Mac OSX - Creative Suite 6
Photoshop retouching and
image modification
Illustration traditional and vector
Clients
Bayard Presse / Owlkids
OWL, chickadee, Chirp Magazines and Owlkids Books
Kids Can Press
Firefly Books
Nelson Education
Rubicon Publishing Inc.
World Wildlife Foundation
Beaches Living Guide
Seneca College
Tribute Magazine
and BassToy International
Health Naturally Magazine
Blue Jays FanClub Magazine
(including the Jr. Jays magazine)
ProAnglers Outdoors Magazine
Hallmark Cards
Wilson and CCM
Bell Canada
Baskin-Robbins
Coca-Cola Ltd.
Monarch Development
about me
a perfectionist with lots of creative ideas!
