michael hartmann • GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Vespidae ( pronounced VESP-ē-day ) is the scientific name for a large classification of wasps. I chose “Vespidae” for the name of my graphic design entity due to the distinctive nature of the name itself and for the obvious tenacity of its namesake, the wasp. The name “Hartmann Design” was already in use so I had to go in a different direction. “Vespidae” is a name I’ve never heard in any context outside the scientific study of the phylum Arthropoda. Who else would really use that name? Unless someone steals it after they find out I have it. Those plagiarizing bastards.

I have 20+ years of graphic design/branding experience and have designed many different types of print and digital media. I have extensive experience with the Adobe Creative Suite, albeit the four main programs I use are InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator & Acrobat Pro. I use these on a daily basis. My design experience ranges from the building of forms (the non-glamorous but necessary side) to the design and layout of multi-page pieces for professional printing and digital use. As an experienced graphic designer, I can readily conceptualize new ideas and posses the software skills to make those ideas work.

I’d describe my experience and expertise as detail-oriented, accurate, even precise. There’s many types of graphic designers out there with specialties and areas in which they excel. I don’t know that I particularly excel at any one area (although I do enjoy illustration) but I am indeed well-rounded and versed in general graphic design, and my experience runs most of the gamut. I’m dedicated, loyal, and have the ability to communicate effectively. I’ve gained a level of maturity through life and work experience that equates to effective work flow performance and solid reliability. I may be a perfectionist, but true designers know that’s a trait that pays off in visual communication. Although I’ve worked in Title for my entire graphic design career, I do indeed have design interests outside of that realm.

I’m self-employed and have worked exclusively for Fidelity National Title Company since July of 2008. I am the sole graphic designer/brand specialist for the Inland Empire operation in Southern California. In addition, I’ve been the primary designer/brand specialist for the San Diego operation since January of 2012. I’ve also designed pieces for the Los Angeles operation of FNT as well as for Chicago Title of Seattle & Tacoma, WA.

Click on the picture below for a PDF of my Portfolio.