About
I'm a graphic designer who's lived and worked in New York for over 20 years. I started out in interactive graphics for clients in children's media and advertising. A full-time job as promotion art director at Playboy Enterprises brought me into publishing, where I was able to develop programs and designs across print, digital, and video, both online and on-air.
I've developed b2b and b2c video promotions in the entertainment, lifestyle, and health and fitness categories for many world-class brands. I'm currently working as the creative director for JW Media, promoting the Olympia Fitness and Performance Weekend. I also work on contract, and am hoping to work more in the healthcare and pharmaceutical categories.
In addition I paint watercolors, and received a 2019 New Works Grant from the Queens Council on the Arts to create large-scale landscapes of Newtown Creek. Learn more at johnkitses.com. Or just check out my painting Instagram.
…a swiss army knife…
John was the go-to resource to not only navigate the design department but the company as a whole… John was a swiss army knife when it came to all things design related.
He was a star employee at Playboy…
John did not simply execute design at Playboy, he was an integral part of the conceptualization of many proposals… He was a star employee at Playboy, and would be for any other company…
…the mark of an outstanding manager.
What makes John unique is his desire to bring something fresh and new to any assignment. He presents options in terms of creative messaging, overall look & feel and also balance to any material he contributes to.… Equally impressive is how he credits his team… the mark of an outstanding manager.
…a unique ability to really hear the client…
I am always blown away by his work & dedication… John has a unique ability to really hear the client and deliver work that exceeds expectations.
…beyond helpful Art Director.
John was an extremely talented, patient, full of laughs and beyond helpful Art Director. He was the perfect person to watch over me as I started my first job out of college and following through to the end of my tenure at Playboy.
Thank you for seeing the potential…
John was the first person that hired me when I moved to New York City, as a fresh graduate… He allowed me to grow a lot professionally as he guided me throughout the process… Thank you John! Thank you for seeing the potential in me.