Howdy, I’m Marvin. Thanks for stopping by.
Who am I?
I’m Marvin Forte and my company is Bravoforté Strategic Design, based in Portland, Oregon. I’m a brand strategist, graphic artist, and web designer-ist. I’ve worked as an independent and I’ve managed teams, with titles like Production Manager, Creative Director, Art Director, Owner, and even Creative Kingpin.
I’ve also been heavily involved with AIGA (the organization formerly known as the American Institute of Graphic Arts). AIGA is The Professional Association for Design. I was President of the Arizona Chapter from 2011–2013, and I was on the Chapter Advisory Council (CAC) from 2013–2014, advising all the western chapters.
But before all that, I was an artist, naturalist, walker, hiker, backpacker, biker, birder, angler, kayaker, swimmer, diver, snowshoer, gardener, trail runner, stargazer, tree admirer, and water lover.
Ultimately, I’m all of the above. So, if you need help marketing your outdoors-focused business, I can probably help.
Why do I exist?
I exist to create harmony in a chaotic world, and it’s in my nature to solve problems. I use my skills to initiate change, to improve function, and to spark beauty. Elevating something strong into something superb fills my cup.
What do I do?
I guide organizations to connect with their customers in a more authentic way by navigating their brand positioning, enhancing their design style, and making their interfaces more intuitive. My expertise is in brand strategy, typography, illustration, logo design, graphic design, user experience (UX) design, web design, WordPress development, and print management.
How do I do it?
My work involves strategy, branding, design, and development for print and digital media. I elevate outdoors-focused brands through strategy and visual storytelling. Outdoor recreation and travel, competitive sports leagues, and sports publications industries are my specialty.
Who do I do it for?
Some of my past clients include the Greater Columbus Sports Commission and the NCAA, Major League Baseball and The San Francisco Giants, The Nature Conservancy, Arizona Trout Camp, Ultimate All-Inclusive Travel, Kayak Fishing Northwest, the Parada del Sol, and Vanguard Sports Publications.
What makes me different?
My ability to see the big picture, focus on strategy first, connect the dots, spot relevant patterns, and find alternative ways to proceed and succeed. My connection to nature and the outdoors informs everything I do.