Isaac Ruder | Minneapolis College of Art and Design

Isaac Ruder

Image
Portrait of Isaac Ruder against a blue background.

Alumni
’16

Education
BFA in Web and Multimedia Environments
Current Career
Designer at Frank Collective
Location
Long Beach, California

Where are you originally from? How did you hear about MCAD?

I am from Eau Claire, WI. I saw a poster for National Portfolio Day hosted by MCAD in my high school art classroom and attended.

What was your major and how did you choose it?

Web and multimedia environments. I loved the ability to experiment in open-ended projects with really supportive professors. There are a lot of paths that can be taken through the WMM program and it can be tailored to your unique interests.

Did you receive any scholarships? If so, how did that impact you?

I received a four-year merit scholarship when I was accepted and won the Logan Interactive Media Merit Scholarship. These scholarships made it possible for me to study at MCAD and I am grateful for the experience.

Who was your favorite teacher and why?

I cannot choose between Piotr Szyhalski and Jan Jancourt, both of whom have had huge influences over my thinking and process. With an open mind, conversations will lead to revelations.

How did you like your internship?

Interning at Location Books for Scott Nedrelow was a lot of fun! I gained hands-on experience with book production, product photography, mailing inventory, and assisting in an artist's studio.

Best thing you ever saw on the free shelf?

After years of collecting our apartment from the free shelf, my roommate and I returned everything (plus many more things) after we graduated. Seeing the shelf full of good stuff was the best thing.

What advice do you have for current MCAD students?

Please sleep more, it is important.

Did you like going to school in the Twin Cities?

It is an amazing place to create and experience art, and I love that it's possible to get anywhere on a bike!

Where do you live now?

Los Angeles, CA

Describe what you do for work and how you feel about it.

At Frank, I create brand identities, design websites, and shoot photo/video in the studio. In my studio practice, I work with artists and nonprofits and engage with making art.

Banner advertisement of an abandoned beach picnic by Isaac Ruder

How did you get your job?

It began as a weekly freelance gig. I worked hard and learned Sketch on the spot; they offered me a full-time position after a month.

What inspires your work?

Being in nature or taking long bike rides. I enjoy experimenting with technology and process to produce unexpected results.

How do you network yourself and your art?

Networking is tough, but people are genuinely interested in connecting and sharing perspectives. And maybe somewhere down the line that connection leads to a gig or finding someone you want to work with.

Anything you're obsessed with at the moment?

Making avocado smoothies.

Instagram

A scene of bodies laying on the ocean floor by Isaac Ruder

Work by Isaac Ruder

Work by Isaac Ruder

Work by Isaac Ruder

Work by Isaac Ruder

Work by Isaac Ruder

Work by Isaac Ruder

Work by Isaac Ruder