We recently connected with Rick Stringer and have shared our conversation below.

Rick, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Hello, and thank you for this opportunity to introduce myself to your readers. My name is Rick Stringer, and I am the founder of Rick Stringer Creative Services, LLC, specializing in illustration, photography, and Macintosh/iOS support. My journey into this field began in 1984 as an airbrush artist in Los Angeles, California, and evolved when I joined R.N. Johnson & Associates, a small advertising firm in Chicago, Illinois. It was there that I was introduced to the Macintosh computer—a pivotal moment that reshaped my career. My expertise with the Mac grew alongside the evolution of its capabilities. My career journey took me to Michael VanderWall, Inc., a design firm in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and later to Corbin Design in Traverse City, Michigan, where I started as a production artist and eventually became the vice president. In 2020, I decided to focus entirely on my own company.

At Rick Stringer Creative Services, LLC, we offer a unique blend of services including illustration, photography, Macintosh support, FileMaker database design, and creative coaching. Our primary focus is on supporting small businesses and individuals, marrying my artistic and photographic talents with our clients’ visions to create something both unique and impactful. Our goal is to elevate their brand or personal narratives to new heights!
A key problem we solve for our clients is providing expert assistance with their Macintosh computers and iOS devices. My extensive experience with Macintosh in various design firms has given me a strong foundation to help people effectively in this area.

What sets us apart in the industry is our unique combination of creative and technical skills, coupled with a strong commitment to customer support. This ensures we maintain a high standard of quality and integrity in all our endeavors.
I’m excited about my photography project with glass artist Craig Mitchell Smith, capturing his stunning works for his upcoming 2024 exhibit at the Museum of The Shenandoah Valley. These photos will also be featured in a book about the exhibit and Craig’s life, slated for release in 2025.

I believe that the essence of our work at Rick Stringer Creative Services, LLC is not just in the end product, but in the collaborative journey we embark on with our clients. Each project is a shared adventure, where we align our expertise with your vision to create something truly exceptional.

Thank you for taking the time to learn about me and Rick Stringer Creative Services, LLC.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The journey of being a creative individual has always been the driving force in my life. Growing up in a family where creativity was a common thread—with my father as an artist and photographer, my oldest brother as a theatrical set designer, fine artist, and photographer, and my mother, sister, and younger brother all possessing creative talents—has profoundly shaped my path. What brings me the most joy is creating art or photography that resonates with others, evoking emotions or connections through my work.

My primary motivation has been to elevate those I collaborate with to new heights, whether through my artwork, photography, database design, or technical support. It’s about contributing something meaningful to their projects or aspirations. The sense of fulfillment I get when clients or collaborators feel they have gained something valuable from our partnership is what truly signifies success to me. It’s not just about completing a job; it’s about making a positive impact and enhancing their experience or vision through my creative contributions.

We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?

My journey into social media began with podcasting, influenced by my background in theatre. I studied theatre at Eastern Michigan University and moved to California to become an actor, but soon realized acting wasn’t for me.
In 2005, I produced “Variant Frequencies,” a podcast featuring science fiction stories. The podcast won four Parsec Awards and showcased works from a range of writers and voice actors. It gained acclaim for its storytelling and production quality. My foray into social media was primarily to promote this podcast, and many of my followers today are from the “Variant Frequencies” audience.

Although “Variant Frequencies” concluded in 2011, its episodes remain accessible online. Additionally, I produced “The Failed Cities Monologues” and have guest narrated on several other podcasts.
For those starting to build their social media presence, my advice is to find a unique angle or niche that genuinely interests you. Authenticity resonates with audiences, so focus on what you’re passionate about and share it consistently. Also, engage with your audience and be part of a community, as this helps in building lasting connections.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.rickstringer.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rickstringer_tc/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RickStringerCreativeServicesLLC
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickstringer/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/rick_stringer
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/rick-stringer-creative-services-traverse-city
• Other: https://rick-stringer.pixels.com
• Podcast: https://variantfrequencies.com

Image Credits
Rick Stringer