Services

  • – Tabletop Game Artwork

    – Iconography

    – Commissions

  • – Identity Design

    – Game Design

    – Publication Design

  • – In-Person / Virtual Consultations

    – Interactive Presentations

    – Creative Workshops

Background

In 2000, I graduated with a degree in Visual Communication and started working as a graphic designer. In 2007 I started a small business – Specimen Design LLC. With an established company I could protect my work, publish creations and deliver freelance projects professionally.

Well, a lot’s happened since those days. But no matter who I worked for over the past 20+ years, I continued growing my own projects and relationships in the creative field. And so, after many adventures working for in-house creative teams and with marketing agencies, I began working full-time for myself in the Fall of 2023.

Now, I’m a company of one. Online I do business as Eric Imagines, for a more personal approach with clients and customers. When it’s time to get paid, publish content and keep the IRS happy, I do so through my formal business entity – Specimen Design LLC.

THE LATEST

  1. Illustration and graphic design for tabletop games

  2. World-building for interactive experiences

  3. Planning new workshops and events

If you have a project you’d like to discuss, let’s chat. Everything starts with a conversation. I’m very comfortable sharing work samples, discussing rates and negotiating for budgets.

Experience

I’ve worked with some great teams over the years. Thanks to these folks I’ve grown professionally and had some fun along the way.

AIGA National

AIGA Arizona

Compound Butter Magazine

Cultivator Content Labs

Desert Financial

Harkins Theaters

Mesa Arts Center

Monomyth Studio

Phoenix Art Museum

Phoenix Fan Fusion

Phoenix Design Week

Phoenix New Times

Phoenix Suns

Scottsdale Center for the Arts

Uniquely Geek

W.L. Gore & Associates

My Goals

1. Build creative assets

Make, believe, repeat: When I don’t have a client project on my desk, I’m busy making my own ideas happen. For over 20+ years, even while working for others, I’ve made time to complete projects only I can create. Focus. Routine. Determination. That’s my enterprise.

3. Bring people together

If creativity can promote connection, we need it now more than ever. One of the first ways we connect with others = games. I spend a good deal of time designing new tabletop games and thinking of ways to promote togetherness through play.

2. Support my community

This involves listening, knowledge-sharing and being a resource for others. Here in AZ, I’ve worked for years to build relationships with fellow creatives, students, educators and business owners. It’s helped me grow and understand the challenges others face.

4. Make ideas happen

I use this phrase a lot. Getting ideas done is often very difficult, so it takes persistence. The only way to see where our ideas will take us, is to make them a reality. Rather than waiting for permission to create something, I’m growing new skills through doing.

TESTIMONIALS

In their own words

“I had the pleasure to work with Eric on the conceptualization and implementation of an augmented reality experience for a Phoenix Art Museum “Creative Saturday” program in January of 2023 geared toward engaging visitors of all ages and abilities.

Eric was a joy to work with! He is thoughtful, innovative, and the ultimate creative problem-solver. Eric is highly detail-oriented, but was equally committed to ensuring his contributions aligned with the Museum’s overarching program goals and inspired awe and wonder in our intergenerational audiences.

Throughout our collaboration, Eric was communicative and receptive to feedback from me and other museum staff. I’d love to work with Eric again in the future!”

— Dawn Berg, Phoenix Art Museum

“I first met Eric as a fan and customer about 10 years ago. I was impressed with the quality of his work and his passion for giving value back to his customers. Since then, we have become close friends and creative colleagues. In that time, his passion hasn't slackened and his craft has only improved. I couldn't recommend him more!”

— Andrew Bosley, Wits End Studios

“I’ve had the absolute pleasure of collaborating with Eric on several projects including a tabletop card game and several guest lectures and workshops, and I must say he is an exceptional creative and a genuinely gracious human. Not only did Eric bring a wealth of experience and innovative ideas to the table, but his generosity and thoughtfulness made the entire experience enjoyable and inspiring.

When he delivered guest lectures to my students, his passion and expertise left a lasting impression, motivating them to explore their own creative potential. Working with Eric was an enriching journey, and I wholeheartedly recommend him for any creative endeavor.”

— John Gialanella, Western Washington University

“I have worked with Eric on a variety of projects for over twelve years. He is a clever designer with an eye for detail. Eric leads with a positive and receptive attitude. He is always an asset to have on a team.”

— Suzanne Landtiser, Fine Line Studio

“Collaborating with Eric has been a game-changer for our projects. He brings a wealth of creativity and expertise to the table. Eric's innovative ideas, deep understanding of game mechanics, and market insights have been instrumental in shaping our collaborative work into something truly exceptional.

Eric guided us through the entire process, from brainstorming and prototyping to production and project management. His passion for creative solutions and games is infectious, and his commitment to our projects has been unwavering.

We highly recommend Eric for his invaluable contributions to our client's success.”

— Monomyth Studio

“Eric is a truly exceptional designer and an absolute pleasure to work with. Throughout our time volunteering together at AIGA (American Institute of Graphic Arts), I have witnessed firsthand his exceptional talent, passion for design, and remarkable ability to inspire others.

One of the many ways Eric has made a lasting impact on both the design community and aspiring designers is through his insightful speaking engagements. On several occasions, I had the pleasure of inviting him to share his unique perspective on design with my students at NAU (Northern Arizona University). Each time, he captivated the audience with his engaging storytelling, expertise and enthusiasm.

In addition to his outstanding knowledge of the design industry, Eric is an amazing illustrator. The way he thoughtfully crafts imagery while blending creativity and passion in his work is truly inspiring. Anyone who has the privilege of working with Eric will undoubtedly be enlightened by his positive energy and collaborative spirit.”

— Danielle O’Connor, Northern Arizona University

“Eric is an excellent illustrator, designer and collaborator. He is always a pleasure to work with and brings a unique perspective to every project he’s involved in. I have enjoyed my time working with him and hope to continue to work with him in the future!”

— Chris Bouthner, B5 Productions