“Bryan is a man of education, high ideas, and sound integrity. His originality of ideas and capacity for hard work were outstanding. …He was also a natural teacher to many in our department.”
—Mel Sant
Creative Director, TKO Advertising
Instructor: Art Center College of Design
“His superb interpersonal communication and interviewing techniques were essential to the success of the project. …Most impressive was his ability to quickly analyze a situation and develop creative solutions to obstacles and challenges.”
—Robert G. Main, Ph.D.
California State University, Chico
“… Mr. Ledford has been instrumental in designing and implementing an advertising and marketing strategy that has resulted in a 25% increase in business.”
—Scott Heinly
Vice President, PPI
“College taught me what I didn’t know, and where to learn.” Bryan’s BA in Visual Communications: Graphic Design was much more than a focus on aesthetic communication. Unlike many programs, the major also had an emphasis on psychology, which he studied in earnest. He saw the value in truly understanding customer dynamics behind why people are attracted to certain messages, the intellectual and emotional motivations, and the innate needs that drive them.This is woven into every piece of artwork, campaign, copy, and image he creates. A deeper and finer understanding of this was obtained in earning his MS in Instructional Technology and Design where the same principles can be extrapolated organization-wide. This knowledge allowed for great innovation in structure and processes, improving morale and productivity, without any sacrifice to quality in the studios and departments Bryan has led.
“Master your craft.” This simple philosophy drove his success and ascent through the studio ranks as a Hollywood prop maker, graphic designer, Photoshop artist, illustrator, photographer, and art director. Bryan takes his work seriously and personally; letting his high standards guide all of his processes.
“I will help you and teach you anything you want to know, but you have to meet me halfway. I’ll care just as much as you do.” Bryan has enjoyed bringing this ideology to mentoring and leadership. He was lucky to find good people who were willing to help and teach him as he started his career and happily pays that kindness forward.
Bryan Ledford is also a hardworking, blue collar guy trapped in a white collar body. He is an accomplished black- and bladesmith and was invited to compete on Forged in Fire, Season 9 Episode 13, “Gladiators of the Forge.”
