Stephen Olmstead

The Basics...

Hi. My name is Stephen, but you probably already figured that out from the large ominous text above.

What I do...

I create things. Some have called this act 'being a designer'. I think 'guy who creates stuff' is a better way to describe this because it is much more multi-faceted. Truth be told I find it hard to commit to one way, shape, or form of artistic creation. I enjoy and pursue my love of graphic design, web design, photography, cinematography, blogging, poetry, musical composition, playing the trumpet, singing, teaching, and consulting. For the longest time, I couldn't comprehend that it was actually okay to enjoy all of these together AND... to do all of them in composed chaos as a job. I'm currently in the process of launching my new freelancing firm, Sonata Creative... let the composed chaos ensue.

My History...

I received my AAS in Digital Imaging from Mesa Community College and my BAS in Digital Media Management at Arizona State University (I'll get around to that MAS degree someday). I'm incredibly fascinated by creative workflow systems and wrote my graduating thesis on this topic. I've worked for design firms, non-profits, and... myself. I have close to 10 years of experience under my belt in the design field and still enjoy what I do as much as the day I started. For a day job, I currently work for Food for the Hungry, a Christian non-profit organization located in Phoenix, Arizona. I love my job and role in providing graphics that generate awareness concerning poverty and world hunger.

Additional Details...

I am in love with my best friend, Celeste. We were married this past February and are coming to realize that this marriage business is quite cool. I am an active member at my local church and lead/teach our College & Career Young Adults group there. I enjoy running, swimming, raquetball and... sleeping when time allows. I love movies and a few TV shows (Lost, House, Heroes, and Battlestar Galactica come to mind). Oh, did I mention I am self-proclaimed nerd?

My Ambitions...

Before I die I'd like to... write a book, compose a symphony, produce an award-winning independent film, learn to play guitar, have children, see aforementioned children graduate and marry, go to Europe, go to Africa, go to Asia, beat my brother in a game of raquetball, teach graphic design at a local university

After I die I'd like to... spend eternity praising God for His goodness and grace in my life.