Cecelia Hotzler
Illustration,
Art Direction,
and Social media.
Meet The Artist
I’m a Minnesota-born Art Director and Illustrator currently working at an Iowa-based financial institution where I help lead the design of a Gen-Z and Millennial sub-brand.
My creative foundation began at a young age; I attended an arts high school at age 16, where I first learned to blend technical skills learned in class with the raw expression of a teenage artist. Today, that dual perspective allows me to navigate the complexities of large-scale brand strategy while maintaining the soul and hand-drawn authenticity that defines my personal style. Whether I’m directing in-house campaigns or architecting sub-brands for Gen Z audiences, my focus is always on translating complex visual stories into measurable brand growth.
My career is a balance of institutional leadership and high-profile creative partnerships. From launching award-winning financial literacy brands to designing merchandise for global artists like Garbage and Machine Gun Kelly, I thrive at the intersection of strategy and subculture. This passion extends into my personal interests and hobbies, as I run a dedicated emo/pop-punk Instagram page and Etsy shop and built a community of over 30,000. There, I curate MySpace-era nostalgia and design custom stickers and apparel that celebrate the Y2K aesthetic. I know exactly how to engage communities through art and online spaces.
As I look toward my next chapter, I am leaning further into the spaces where community and fresh, unique design collide. I am particularly passionate about partnering with bands (big or small!), yoga studios, coffee shops, and retail brands to build unique, aesthetically pleasing visual worlds.
When I’m not working or drawing on my iPad, you can find me on the mat attending a hot yoga class, making very specific playlists on Spotify, or trying new coffee shops in town.
Strategic Design Leadership: Currently directing the visual evolution of a financial institution, translating complex business objectives into high-impact, omni-channel campaigns that drive measurable member acquisition and retention.
Brand Architect & Specialist: Proven track record of launching successful sub-brands from concept to rollout, including a Gen Z-focused financial identity.
High-Profile Creative Partnership: Complements deep institutional branding expertise with a versatile freelance portfolio, delivering creative solutions for global brands and artists, including CASETiFY,
Planned Parenthood, Garbage, and MGK.
The Basics
I used to be a professional mascot at the Mall of America. This skill has surprisingly been important to my design career!
I attended a boarding school for the arts during my junior year of high school.
I’m an extrovert and enjoy being around people! I don’t mind being in the office a few days a week.
Fun Facts
Let’s Create
Something Amazing.
If you're interested in working with me, complete the form with a few details about your project. I’ll review your message and get back to you within 48 hours.