Michael’s expertise spans publication design, brand identity, digital design, photography, and illustration. As Associate Creative Director, he leads our design team in creating work that bridges institutional strategy, effective audience communication, and timeless visual appeal.
He began his career at Pittsburgh City Paper, where he developed a passion for print journalism and editorial storytelling. In 2012, he co-founded Artman Purdy Studios to design, produce, and publish Rustbelt Almanac, a magazine celebrating small business owners, social activists, and community initiatives across the Great Lakes region.
Since joining the firm in 2014, he has led award-winning design projects for clients including the August Wilson African American Cultural Center, City Theatre, Kenyon College, Rice University, University of Pennsylvania, University of Pittsburgh, Valparaiso University, and Wheeling Symphony Orchestra, among others. Michael’s work has been recognized by UCDA, CASE, AIGA, and CUPRAP. His redesign of Phillips Academy’s Andover magazine was a finalist for the prestigious Robert Sibley Magazine of the Year Award.
He is also an adjunct design instructor and a past education director for AIGA Pittsburgh.