Jason Ross
Admissions Officer
Employment History
Most recently a freelance designer, photographer and art educator.
Educational Background
- White Cloud H.S., 1997
- Kendall College of Art and Design B.F.A. Illustration/Graphic Design, 2005
Best Achievement
Winning a 2004 Adobe Design Achievement Award for the use of Adobe software in my photographic work.
Favorite Artist
Saul Bass, Graphic Designer
Top 3 favorite works of art
- Alfred Hitchcock’s: Vertigo (film)
- Edward Hopper’s: New York Movie (painting)
- Charles & Ray Eames’: La Chaise (furniture)
Creative philosophy
Tell a story.
Favorite quote
“What is essential is invisible to the eye.” From The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupery
Favorite KCAD fact
The majority of furniture designers working in America today are Kendall graduates.
Who do you think every KCAD student should meet?
Their source of inspiration.
Best kept secret about Grand Rapids
The creative energy near the Avenue for the Arts (Division Avenue).
Favorite medium and why
Photography: It can be used for many applications – fine art, commercial, illustration, historical documentation, etc.
Which art book would you recommend to students?
Any art book would be worth a look, but I would recommend looking outside of art books for inspiration. Children’s books, books on philosophy and science, biographies etc. have fostered my creativity as much as any book about art.
What is the one thing you do not feel should be represented in a portfolio review?
“Manga” – or any direct copy of an established character or style.
