Tuesday, February 14, 2017

From Crayons to Creative Director


As soon as he could hold a crayon, drawing became a major part of Larry Levine’s life.

“I started drawing at a very young age,” said Larry, who graduated from Chartiers Valley in 2003. I’ve always had a general interest in the arts.”

As Larry grew, so did his interest in drawing. By the time he reached Middle School, Larry was nearly certain whatever career he pursued, it would involve drawing.

“Early in my pre-teens, I became interested in technology and I think that is what inspired me to pursue a design career,” said Larry. “Design is the perfect blend of creativity and strategy – it wasn’t purely expressive and allowed me to use the computer as a tool.”

By the time Larry reached High School, he was eager to take a variety of courses that related to his interests.

“It was a combination of Visual Communication courses and art classes that kept me excited about coming to school every morning,” said Larry.

Larry constantly challenged himself – and sometimes even his teachers – to learn more about graphic design and the programs that were (and still are) used in the professional world. Based on the experience Larry gained while he was in high school, he landed an internship at a local ad agency named Larson O’Brien at the age of 18.

After high school graduation, Larry went to La Roche College where he earned a degree in Graphic & Communication Design with a minor focus in illustration and typography. Today, Larry is a Creative Director for Celerity’s Digital Experience Team.

Since his graduation in 2003, Larry has often returned to Chartiers Valley to speak to students about design as a potential career path. However, this year, his return to the high school is a bit different.

In addition to his full time career, Larry is also working with the students in Mr. Clayton McGalla’s class Advanced Graphics and Photography class. With guidance from Larry, students have a unique opportunity to attempt to create a fresh colt logo for Chartiers Valley athletics.

Larry visited Mr. McGalla’s classes in November to teach students about the design process and tips for tackling such a major project.  In addition to speaking with the classes, Larry has been available to answer questions via email and will be offering feedback on the students’ designs this spring.

“We’re fortunate that Celerity has allowed Larry to take the time to work with our students,” said Mr. McGalla. “It gives them a unique opportunity to learn from – and work with – a talented design professional.”

“My primary objective was to give students a rudimentary knowledge of how to approach designing an identity or logo for the new face of the Colts,” said Larry. “At the very least I hope that they walked away feeling excited and inspired.”

In addition to working with Mr. McGalla’s classes this year, Larry has previously visited the High School to talk to students about design as a potential career path. He also encourages all students to make the most of their high school education. 

“Take advantage of what Chartiers Valley has to offer you,” said Larry. “You have a wealth of knowledge, support and resources at your disposal. It’s something you don’t realize until later in life.”

A special thank you to Larry for taking the time to work with Chartiers Valley High School students this year!

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