(Jake) John Thomas Flowers II

I graduated from Appalachian State in the spring of 2015. While in the graphic design program, I strengthened my eye for designing but more importantly I learned how to think conceptually. I used my elective courses to take as many drawing and photography classes as I could. When applying for jobs outside of school I was seen as a triple threat, someone that could concept an idea, go out and shoot the vision and then bring to life the visual identity of the project.

This vast toolbox of talents made me quite competitive in the advertising world when looking for jobs after graduation. I landed an internship with a small ad agency in Charlotte. The internship turned into a full-time Junior Art Director position, where I worked on brands like Victory motorcycles and Sheetz.

In 2016, I moved on to Mythic, a larger agency in Charlotte, where I still work today as an Art Director. Mythic operates on a few simple principles: Hire the best talent. Dare them to challenge conventions. Trust them to deliver. I service a large range of clients, whether they come to me for brand identity, commercial or cross platform campaign I approach the work strategically and design with purpose.

Mythic at the American Advertising Federation awards gala in Charlotte

While at Mythic I have been able to touch a multitude of brands and clients. Ally Bank, Athens Food, Central Piedmont Community College, Charlotte Ballet, Cone Health, Driven Brands, EDPNC, Husqvarna, John Knox Village, LMC, Marvel, Nation Gypsum, and Spectrum. I have won seven American Advertising Awards for my work, the majority for my Pretty Powerful campaign for the Charlotte Ballet.

This poster for the Charlotte Ballet’s Pretty Powerful campaign won a Silver Addy at the 2018 American Advertising Awards in Charlotte.

The thing I love about my job is every day is a different day. I can be in the office developing concepts for campaigns with my team, building out a visual system, directing a photo/video shoot, or working with the development team to sitemap and build out a website. When I am not designing, I am a contributing member to the LGBTQA+ community. I serve on the board for a non-profit TWIRL to the World. This past year we raised $60,000 for our charities: Smart Start, Humane Society, Winter Awakening and Transcend. You can also find me at the courts with stonewall sports Charlotte captaining kickball and dodge ball teams.

I have been very fortunate in my five years outside of school. I've been able to make a name for myself in the advertising world, and set roots down in a vibrant city that is constantly inspiring me. I owe everything to the education I received at Appalachian State and the professors who awakened these skills in me. The dynamic courses and hands-on teaching style were everything I needed to get to where I am today.

~ (Jake) John Thomas Flowers II

Update: Jake is now a product Designer with Skookum in Charlotte, NC