Today we’d like to introduce you to Mike Meulstee.
Hi Mike, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
could build a career around creativity.
I went on to study at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, where I explored fine art, commercial art, and design. I also spent time learning across different mediums—sculpture, animation, printmaking, illustration, and design—which gave me a flexible, multidisciplinary approach that still shapes how I work today.
After graduation, I freelanced with music venues, agencies, small businesses, and independent clients. Over time, I became increasingly interested in digital design and the web, especially as tools for storytelling, branding, and connecting with people.
Eventually, I moved from freelancing into team-based roles, where I worked on launches, rebrands, campaigns, and digital experiences while learning how to balance creative vision with stakeholder needs and business goals. Along the way, I found that I’m most energized by work with nonprofits, mission-driven organizations, and smaller businesses—places where thoughtful design can make a visible difference.
Today, I focus on helping purpose-driven brands tell clear, meaningful stories through brand identity, visual systems, campaigns, and digital design.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. I graduated in 2009, and I still remember our commencement speaker basically talking to the parents and saying, “I know it’s all doom and gloom, and it’s unlikely your kid is going to be able to pay their student loans back right away because of the job market—but we can’t all chase money, right?” I’m paraphrasing, but honestly, I’m not that far off.
It took me some time to get a job after graduation. Since then, I’ve been laid off, had contracts not get extended, and had stretches of unemployment. But at the end of the day, I really love what I do, and that passion is what has carried me through the hard times.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Artisticdork Design?
One of the best ways to explain what I always hear from new and long time clients is that I deliver what I say, and I’m pleasant to work with. I like to think my defining characteristic is that I am a good person who is fun to work with. Sure, my design skills get me hired, but my soft skills keep clients choosing me.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
Well, for one, I don’t have a design degree, shhh….! My degree is in fine arts, specifically sculpture and printmaking. So my skills are all self-taught over my decade-plus of working in design. I try not to lead with that part, though, haha.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://artisticdork.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/artisticdork.com
- LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/mmeulstee
