Ricardo Patino

Creative Director and Studio Manager

I am the Creative Director & Studio Manager. I am responsible for creative, art direction and production of all the graphic work we do for our clients here at the agency; I oversee the interactive and graphics departments, while juggling the demanding production schedules for all of our projects. This is where my job begins. As the Go-To Guy, I am also the office handy man, interior designer and space efficiency expert. My latest venture is the recent launch of the recycling program - which I also get to manage. I hold myself to high standards and don't believe in doing anything half way. I believe life is about the simple things and that love, kindness, tolerance and a "well done" when it is deserved will go further than anything material - except of course, really good food!

A native of Colombia, I came to the US in 1998 as a tourist, speaking no English. Two years later, thanks to the 7yr old & the 11yr old I cared for, I was fluent in English and was accepted to Northeastern University in Boston where I graduated in 2002 with a BS in Graphics Design & Visual Communication. Prior to joining the Schmidt Group, I was the Media Department Director for a major Compaq computer wholesaler in Bogota, Colombia.

Even though I work in commercial arts I am intrinsically a fine artist, you will find me sketching, doodling & painting whenever my hands are free. Inspired by my daughter Elli Sofia, the most beautiful little girl in the whole universe, I am actively working with my wife to launch a children's clothing line that is innovative, environmentally friendly (recycled & organic fabrics and dyes) www.ellimelli.com because we believe we must take care of the environment by being good and active stewards of what earth grants us with every day. A short film buff, I had the wonderful opportunity to join the collaboration team of the Miami Short Film Festival since 2006; I designed their website and some collateral material in the very little to no time I have, but the fact that I am able to somehow be involved in the filmmaking arena, makes up for all those sleepless nights.

Things You Should Know...

5 Must-Haves of the Moment
1. A wife - Got it
2. A daughter - Got it
3. A roof over our heads - Got it
4. A job - Got it
5. I don't need anything else, except good food :)

What did you have for breakfast this morning?
Whole wheat, bran, milled flax, weetabix, milk and honey - Yum!

First Thing that crossed you mind this morning?
...five more minutes...zZzzZzz

Favorite Sports Team?
uh?

Last thing you read?
My email

Name of the last great restaurant you went to?
Wendys (I have a 9 month -old daughter and only one income)

Most inspiring place you've ever been?
Winter 05 - Kortejokki Finland - I experienced the deafening sound of silence for the first time in my life.

Best advice you've ever been given?
Learn to forgive and to ask for forgiveness

Best TV show?
House

Favorite candy?
Reeses Peanut Butter Cups

Addiction du Jour?
Fried dough

Cocktail of choice?
White Russian

Three things you typically do on the weekend?
1. Change diapers
2. Eat
3. Go to Church

What's the best part about working for The Schmidt Group?
I am part of a family here.