A still from a series of 3D animated videos and support materials that I designed and directed the production of, to help one of the world’s biggest law firms defend the “Big 3” US automakers against a class-action lawsuit. Details here.
Contents
(1) Summary
(2) My core competencies
(3) The mission of my life
(4) Testimonials
(5) Trivia
(1) Summary
Introducing myself would be much easier if I had one primary skill-set, and have worked in the same profession over a long period of time. An accountant; an engineer; a cabinetmaker.
With me, to say “it’s complicated” is an understatement. But if I were forced to explain, in one sentence, my skills and passions, here’s what I would say:
If a baby could be sired by seven entities — economist Thomas Sowell, Steve Jobs, a veteran trial lawyer, Thomas Jefferson, PIXAR Animation Studios, the Monty Python comedy troupe, and children’s TV pioneer Fred Rogers — and that baby grew up to become a mosaic of the best within them, that’s the person I’ve worked my entire adult life to become.
I am a visualization and graphic designer, writer, creative consultant, satirist and strategist, based in Charlottesville, VA. Since 1990, first as a studio employee and later as a creative consultant, I’ve helped organizations throughout the US, Southeast Asia and Israel to craft mission-critical presentations, in visual, written and mixed-media formats.
The first part of my career was devoted to advertising, corporate communications and skill training applications. For two years I was the creative director of a multimedia studio, where I designed and directed the production of 3D animations for TV commercials for US and Southeast Asian clients, and corporate documentaries. Next, I was creative lead at another multimedia studio, where I designed 3D animations for high-end clients (including Intel), and contributed to the development of key written content.
I am best known for my ability to convert complex and controversial subject matter into visualization-based and narrative formats that are understandable and persuasive to the general public. I’ve done a lot of this work for corporate and civic activism clients (portfolio here). Law firms that are engaged in high-value litigation rave about how I help them to develop mission-critical courtroom presentations.
Example: I was retained as a last-minute replacement for a designer who couldn’t perform, in a wrongful death case against Ford Motor Company; details here.
Whenever possible, I also enjoy packaging vital facts in funny formats, especially to ridicule bad ideas and organizations. For example, check out my first “social justice” project: “The Coalition for Non-Living Americans.”
9/11 changed everything for me
As a proud American, and the son of a Holocaust victim, I became determined to use the full range of my skills to help advance and defend freedom, and expose and denounce the driving motivations of those who stood with, or whitewashed Al Qaeda.
Since then, an increasing amount of my work has focused on:
(1) Human rights-oriented social entrepreneurship
(2) Investigative journalism, research and documentary production concerning national security and related matters
The realms in which I am currently most active are:
- Activism: Applying my skills to help advocate for my top five highest external values: freedom, America, Israel, children and dogs.
- Litigation media design and consulting: I help law firms engaged in high value and complex litigation to create key courtroom presentations and juror notebook elements.
- VR: I believe virtual reality can be an unrivaled medium for going beyond conveying knowledge — and imparting context, nuance and empathy in ways that no other technology permits. Although I have no experience yet in designing VR, I possess proven skills in 3D animation design and direction and creative direction. I recently created a summary proposal for my first VR app, which will present a first-person depiction of what a relative of mine witnessed and experienced in various Nazi death camps.
- Executive message-crafting: I help organizational leaders to better analyze and understand difficult situations, and develop principled, polished, evidence-based public and internal statements concerning them.
- TV, streaming and film: I recently completed writing my first motion picture, and am developing the conceptual frameworks for an array of TV/streaming shows, documentaries, and other films, all of which frame basic facts and freedom-oriented principles in unique, universally-understandable ways.
- Innovative products and services: I’ve developed ideas for numerous health & wellness, economic literacy and knowledge-disseminating products and services.
Above: A graphic I designed for an activism project I co-created, EntitlementsDestroyLives.org, to help liberate people from lives of dependency-by-design.
(2) My core competencies
I possess seven core competencies:
(a) Converting complex/controversial data into easy-to-understand visual formats
(b) 2D and 3D animation storyboarding and direction
(c) Developing “knowledge tools” and activism strategies that meet target audiences “where they are”
(d) Writing verbal frameworks for accountable presentations, in both screen and print formats
(e) Packaging vital evidence in funny ways
(f) Logo design & brand development
(f) Evidentiary database architecture
(a) Converting complex/controversial data into easy-to-understand visual formats
I’ve done an extensive amount of visualization design & development work for commercial and nonprofit organizations throughout the US and beyond. Since 2000, and particularly after 9/11, I’ve applied this skill primarily to (a) helping law firms engaged in high-value and complex litigation, and (b) national security-related investigative journalism. See examples here.
My visualization design and analytical skills helped resolve the largest land-use dispute in Ft. Lauderdale, FL history, in favor of my client, a luxury property developer. Details here.
(b) 2D and 3D animation storyboarding and direction
What a blueprint is to a building, a storyboard is to an animation. As a studio executive and later, as an independent consultant, I’ve designed and/or directed the production of 3D animations for clients throughout the US and Southeast Asia, including Intel, Sharp Electronics, ad agencies, a renewable energy company, and more. See my portfolio here.
I was tasked with figuring out how to design a 3D animation depicting a Southeast Asian seafood maker’s product being “born out of the ocean.” The resulting 14-second TV commercial animation garnered significant acclaim within that region. See here.
Most recently, on an independent basis, I developed the core designs for an integrated series of what I call “concept visualization tools,” 3D models that will help explain complex and controversial civic issues to general audiences, in a uniform fashion.
(c) Developing “knowledge tools” and activism strategies that meet target audiences “where they are”
Once I am convinced of the legitimacy of a “cause,” I am able to create work products that not only efficiently inform the target audience of essential facts, and just as importantly, help “inoculate” them against being misled by false claims.
One recent example is my HEATKILLS.us project, to help prevent dogs from suffering in hot cars, which I designed from the ground up to be understandable and persuasive even to adolescents.
(d) Writing verbal frameworks for accountable presentations, in both screen and print formats
I am also a wordsmith. Notable organizations have retained me to help them to craft mission-critical written messaging structures for documentaries, written reports, business plans and more. On occasion, I also help senior executives to craft speeches that enable them to address contentious issues with precision, confidence and accountability, in both public and private settings. By its very nature, this specifics of my work in this regard is confidential. Here, however, are some testimonials about my work from notable public figures in the advocacy and defense of freedom, America and Israel.
Below is a documentary I wrote, designed and produced in 2016, that presents encyclopedic evidence that demonstrates how HuffPost, a top-tier, self-declared “nonpartisan,” ad-driven “news” organization, consistently turns reality and facts on their heads in order to whip up global rage against Israel and Jews. Note that each time I level an allegation, at the bottom of the screen is a link to the source evidence; the complete sources are listed here. Learn about my film here, and see a 2-minute video of praise for it by notable individuals and organizations here.
(e) Packaging vital evidence in funny ways
On the surface, the realms in which I do much of my work — political, economic and national security matters — do not lend themselves to satire. Whenever possible, however, I enjoy creating funny ways to present to general audiences the key evidence that enlightens them to certain realities about complex and controversial issues. See some of my satire work at:
One example is my first “social justice” campaign, in 2016, to package evidence of dead Americans casting ballots in our elections, here:
(f) Logo design & brand development
Over the years, beginning as a studio employee, whenever a project I was working on was undergoing the process of developing/redeveloping its brand image, my employers discovered that my graphic design, writing, observational and research skills added value to this process.
As my branding skills and reputation matured, I began accepting commissions, and even developed the branding for my own projects. My logos are distinguished by clean lines, boldness and simplicity.
See my portfolio here:
Jon Sutz: Logo & Branding Portfolio
This is a logo I created for a Virginia nonprofit that advocated for a law to prevent low-income people from being forced out of their homes, because of rapidly-increasing property taxes. Learn about the project here.
(f) Evidentiary database architecture
I am a dogged researcher, and have the ability to convert raw data into meticulously-organized knowledge databases — or as I called them, “resource pages.” The bulk of my work in this regard has been for (a) courtroom presentations, (b) executive messaging consulting, and (c) investigative journalism. See examples here, here and here. Everything I create — visual, written and multi-media — is based on evidence, and I consider it my obligation to provide the curious and skeptical with efficiently pathways to evaluate it for themselves.
Below: I independently created ILoveIsrael.me over a number of years, to present categorized, evidence-based information about what makes Israel such a remarkable, inspiring micro-nation. The screencap below showcases the categorizing listing of pages below the menu item, “Why do people love Israel?” A 12-minute mini-documentary about the project is on the front page.
(3) The mission of my life
My life mission is summed up in this graphic. Learn more about my activism work here.
(4) Testimonials
Combined, my skills, performance and work ethic have won high praise from clients and employers, including law firms, advertising agencies, major corporations, advocacy groups, watchdog organizations and business colleagues. A sampling:
Litigation media: “Jon’s unique combination of creative research, analytical writing, graphic design and presentation development skills were successfully utilized in our communications programs, in achieving the governmental approvals we sought. Jon’s innovation, attention to detail, and ability to digest extremely complex/abstract legal provisions, concepts and arguments, and translate them into clear, impactive visualizations, were integral parts of our presentations.”
– Morris Richter, President, Yale Properties International, Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Regarding: The impact of a $100 million condominium complex (here)
Corporate documentary: “After winning the Malcolm Baldridge National Quality Award (presented by President Bush in 1990), it became apparent that we needed to produce a video documenting our journey… I personally have seen many video productions over the last few months – however, none have been able to capture that unique experience or the ‘special moment in time’ that is so alive in our video. It is the highlight of every presentation… (I) believe in the quotation that, ‘Every job is a self-portrait of the person who did it. Autograph your work with excellence.’ That you do so well!”
– Michael Spiess, Executive Vice President, Wallace Co., Inc., Houston, TX
Regarding: A documentary video that I wrote, designed and directed, chronicling Wallace Co., Inc.’s journey to winning the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award (here)
Litigation media: “We cannot be happier with the quality of the animations you produced for us. (They will) help tremendously in this national litigation, and I expect juries will relate well, regardless of their geographic location.”
– Samuel L. Tarry, Jr., attorney, McGuire Woods, Richmond, VA world headquarters
Regarding: Defense of “Big 3” U.S. automakers in class-action product liability litigation (here)
Civic activism: “I highly recommend Jon for his invaluable assistance to Moms For Liberty in clarifying messaging on a complex and challenging issue. Jon’s insightful guidance and clear communication skills played a pivotal role in navigating the intricacies of the matter, ultimately leading to a more coherent and effective message. Jon’s expertise and commitment to clarity make him an exceptional asset in any collaborative effort.”
– Tiffany Justice, co-founder, Moms For Liberty (Moms4Liberty.org)
Regarding: My strategic communications advisory services, including to create the core architecture of a comprehensive response to a string false allegations against the organization, that were being uncritically repeated by the national news media
Multimedia studio CEO: “(A)s Creative Director of this firm… Jon has acted as director of animation, script supervisor, client liaison and project coordinator. Because we are a small firm, it has been necessary for Jon to assume multiple roles on a variety of projects. He has done so admirably, and in all instances has distinguished himself through his superlative performance. It has been my pleasure to work directly with Jon, and observe firsthand the dedication and perseverance he brings to every project. He possesses enormous energy, talent and is extraordinarily gifted. Jon has been a valued member of the Rainbow ‘team,’ whose contribution to our efforts has been significant… (and his) considerable abilities would prove to be a major asset to any firm with which he becomes affiliated.”
– Earl Jarred, Chief Executive Officer, Rainbow Technology Group, Inc., which was acquired by computer game developer THQ
Regarding: My employment, and rise from Layout Artist to Creative Director within 14 months (here)
See my complete list of testimonials, broken down by category, at:
(5) Trivia
6 words to live by
“He actually built the damned thing!”
– From the movie, “Tucker: The Man And His Dream,” about an automotive visionary who went into competition against the Big 3. Trailer here.
My favorite quotes
“I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past.”
– Thomas Jefferson
First runner-up: “Always reach for the stars. You may not quite get 
one, but you won’t come up with a handful of mud either.”
– Leo Burnett (advertising legend)
Second runner-up: “Every passing minute is another chance to turn it all around.”
– “Sofia,” in the movie, “Vanilla Sky”; clip here (Also, see “About the banner design,” below)
Favorite place
Charlottesville, Virginia. It’s the only place I’ve ever 
really felt ‘at home, as I describe in my upcoming book. Many people have special places, where they go to renew their spirits. I’m fortunate to live within a few miles of both of my special places: Monticello and University of Virginia.
Also, as I describe in my first book, an inspiring memoir I completed in 2013, on those very rare occasions when one sees graffiti in Charlottesville, it’s almost always spelled correctly.
Update, September 2022: It’s changing, fast, and not for the better. I’m going to travel to find new spots in which to live and do my work.
How I use humor to defuse tension (mine or others’)
Laughter is known to help human beings cope with the difficulties of life. When purpose-driven, and evidence-based, it can also be a hyper-weapon in breaking the ice in difficult situations, and in advancing one’s objectives. I often use humor in both contexts. One example:
I recently had my first colonoscopy. As I was waiting for the gastroenterologist to come in, and order that I be sedated, I thought I’d lighten the mood (mine), and build good rapport with her. So, I suggested that if she ever becomes dissatisfied with her current gig, she could use all the skills she already possesses go to work for the IRS, as an investigator, digging deep to find out if criminals stashed away untaxed income in some recess beyond casual view. She, the anesthesiologist and assistant burst out laughing. She said she’ll keep that in mind. Then it was lights-out for me.
I also use humor whenever possible in my work See here.
Ten guests for a dinner party
If I had the ability to gather ten people for a dinner party, five people from the past, and five from the present,here’s who I’d choose:
Past: Thomas Jefferson, Ayn Rand, Steve Jobs, Ronald Reagan, Andrew Breitbart
Present: Ayaan Hirsi-Ali (author-activist), John Lasseter (former PIXAR chief), Sandra Bullock (duh), Natan Sharanski (dissident-author-activist), Mary Chapin Carpenter (singer-songwriter)
First alternate: Cameron Crowe (writer-director; more below)
Second alternative: Elon Musk (only because I figure he’d be the hardest to get)
About the banner design
My banner was inspired by two things: First, when facing a particularly difficult creative challenge, I take – and I encourage my clients to take – what I describe as a “blue sky” approach to solving it. This means dreaming big, ignoring artificial or preconceived limitations, and pursuing a completely original, ultimate solution. I believe that in any mission-critical project, it is vitally important to define the ideal, the “perfect” solution. We can always compromise downward from there if absolutely necessary – but it’s extremely difficult to build towards perfection while one aims only for “OK,” or mediocrity, at the outset.
The banner background was also inspired by, captured from, is an homage to what I consider the unparalleled artistry of one of my favorite modern films, “Vanilla Sky” (trailer), and particularly its ending. The film was created by one of my two* favorite modern writer-directors – Cameron Crowe (*the other being John Lasseter).
