About

BIOGRAPHY

Tony Thielen’s unique analytical and creative skills combine a strong business background with a life-long interest in advertising and design. Before he became a “creative on hiatus”, Tony was the founder and principal of Thielen Designs, an award-winning advertising and design studio in Albuquerque NM. His work has been recognized by some of the industry’s most notable publications, museums and shows.

A New Mexico native, Tony traveled the world with his military family. Later, after his own military service, Tony received a BS degree in International Business from the State University of New York-Albany. During his business career he remained involved in the arts. Moving on, he obtained a degree in art direction and design from the Art Institute in Seattle, (WA). After working with several agencies and publications in the Seattle area, Tony returned to Albuquerque as an art director for a local advertising agency where he produced work for a wide array of clientele–Santa Fe Opera, Office of National Drug Control Policy, Center for Disease Control, Laguna Education Foundation, Bureau of Indian Affairs and Con Alma Health Foundation just to name a few.

In addition to his work for several advertising agencies, Tony provided advertising and design solutions for magazines, arts organizations, music groups and public agencies. He is a member, and a former board member, of the AIGA Santa Fe Chapter (American Institute of Graphic Arts), an active member of the New Mexico Advertising Federation and the One Club. Tony is also an adjunct instructor at the Art Center Design College where he teaches a wide array of classes. He supports local school arts programs with portfolio reviews and other volunteer activities.