Kimberly Gritzer
Windermere,FL
Summary
Highly creative and experienced Creative Director with a proven track record of successfully conceiving, developing, and executing immersive entertainment experiences for Universal Creative. Expertise in leading multidisciplinary teams, managing complex projects, and collaborating effectively with IP holders to achieve compelling and cohesive designs.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Creative Director, Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry
Universal Creative
06.2021 - Current
- Led and directed all creative aspects of attraction, ensuring seamless guest experience
- Managed and mentored teams of writers, artists, directors, designers, producers, and programmers
- Presented project materials to internal and external stakeholders, advocating for project vision
- Served as vision keeper and story driver for both queue and ride experiences
- Directed media development and collaborated with star talent on media scenes
- Managed IP communication and presentations, fostering strong partnerships
Art Director, Villain-Con Minion Blast and Pokémon USJ Attraction
Universal Creative
06.2020 - 06.2021
- Defined design elements and developed visual design direction for both projects
- Created sketches, illustrations, models, composite imagery, and comprehensive image research documentation
- Led design team in developing project elements including architecture, scenic art, and props
- Collaborated closely with Creative Director to maintain design cohesion
Art Director, Monsters Unchained
Universal Creative
07.2019 - 06.2020
- Developed attraction story in collaboration with design team
- Defined design elements and developed visual design direction
- Created sketches, illustrations, models, and image research documentation
- Led design team in developing key project elements
- Collaborated with Creative Director to maintain design cohesion
- Directed development of third-floor animatic
Art Director, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
Universal Creative
01.2017 - 07.2019
- Collaborated with Production Designer, Creative Director, and design team to develop attraction concepts
- Oversaw and directed design, fabrication, and installation of on-stage elements
- Served as design vision keeper, ensuring creative intent was achieved throughout all phases of development
- Managed vendor fabrication and installation, producing visual materials (sketches, markups, etc.)
- Developed attraction in close collaboration with IP and IP Art Director
Attraction Designer, Mario Kart Super Nintendo World
Universal Creative
02.2016 - 01.2017
- Defined design elements from concept through completion
- Created sketches, storyboards, renderings, 3D models, illustrations, drawings, plans, sections, elevations, and ride layouts
Art Director/Production Designer, Genting SkyWorlds
IRMS, International Resort Management Services
12.2013 - 02.2016
- Developed concepts and oversaw design of attractions and lands (Ice Age, Sons of Anarchy)
- Developed design and attraction concepts for Jeju Myths and History Park (South Korea)
Showset/Concept Designer
Lexington Design + Fabrication
04.2012 - 12.2013
- Used Adobe Creative Suite to edit images for use in marketing materials and website content.
- Transformed client ideas into compelling visual concepts, ensuring their vision was accurately brought to life.
- Created sketches and technical drawings to present design concepts to clients.
Education
Master of Arts - Set Design Focus
05.2006
Bachelor of Arts - Set Design Focus
05.2003
Skills
- Creative team leadership
- Visual storytelling
- Deadline-oriented
- Communications strategies
- Concept Art
- Design Drawings
- 3D modeling
- Presentation building
- Media Presentation building
References
Available upon request.
Accomplishments
- Industry Recognition: Contributed significantly to the design and creative direction of Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, which garnered industry recognition for being the best attraction at Universal.
- Effective Teamwork: Led a team of designers, engineers, and fabricators in the successful creation of Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure , fostering a collaborative environment that resulted in [positive outcome.
- Enhanced Immersion: Led the design team in creating a highly immersive environment for Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure.
Blooloop Top 50 2020
The blooloop 50 celebrates the work of fifty key individuals whose creativity, passion and drive has helped shape and improve the industry.
Influencers are those who impact the attractions business with their innovation and creativity. Each year our readers vote in their thousands to recognize the people they think have had the most impact in the last 12 months.
Timeline
Creative Director, Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry - Universal Creative
06.2021 - Current
Art Director, Villain-Con Minion Blast and Pokémon USJ Attraction - Universal Creative
06.2020 - 06.2021
Art Director, Monsters Unchained - Universal Creative
07.2019 - 06.2020
Art Director, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure - Universal Creative
01.2017 - 07.2019
Attraction Designer, Mario Kart Super Nintendo World - Universal Creative
02.2016 - 01.2017
Art Director/Production Designer, Genting SkyWorlds - IRMS, International Resort Management Services
12.2013 - 02.2016
Showset/Concept Designer - Lexington Design + Fabrication
04.2012 - 12.2013
The University of Texas At Austin - Master of Arts, Set Design Focus
Kent State University - Bachelor of Arts, Set Design Focus
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