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Paul Rustand
Principal / Director of Widgets & Stone
Professional Background
Paul Rustand is an accomplished and innovative leader in the design and creative industry, serving as the Director of Widgets & Stone, a premier creative agency he co-founded in 1995. Since its inception, Paul has been instrumental in shaping the agency’s vision and approach, demonstrating how design can effectively build brands, products, user experiences, environments, and places that resonate with audiences and yield results.
Paul has developed extensive expertise in branding and identity communications, supporting organizations to reach their communication goals through best-in-class design and strategy. Notably, he was honored as an AIGA Fellow in 2011, an accolade that recognizes his significant contributions toward raising the standards of excellence in graphic design on a national scale. His experience at Sagmeister, Inc. during a month-long internship in 2004 significantly enriched his creative skill set, laying the groundwork for his later successes.
Over the years, Paul has dedicated himself not only to his agency but also to the development of his community, co-founding and contributing to various organizations and non-profits. His involvement and leadership in various boards reflect his commitment to fostering creativity, sustainability, and community engagement.
Education and Achievements
Paul holds a Master of Fine Arts in Book Arts from the prestigious University of Alabama, where his studies ignited his passion for the intersection of art and communication. Alongside his MFA, he attained a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Design & Illustration from East Carolina University, providing him with a robust foundation in visual design principles and artistic expression. Continuing to elevate his skill set, Paul completed the AIGA’s “Business Perspectives for Creative Leaders” program at Yale School of Management, where he gained insights into the nuances of leading creative enterprises in a business context.
These educational experiences have equipped him with a unique blend of artistic and managerial prowess, essential for navigating the dynamic landscape of creative industries. His notable accomplishments have been further recognized through his fellowship with AIGA, showcasing his leadership skills and his enduring commitment to design excellence.
Key Contributions and Community Involvement
In addition to his role at Widgets & Stone, Paul Rustand has made significant contributions to various community-focused organizations:
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Chattanooga Football Club: As a co-founder and board member since 2009, Paul has played a key role in the establishment of this soccer team, which has become an integral part of the Chattanooga community.
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The Open Press: Co-founding this printmaking, letterpress, and book arts center in 2012 showcases Paul’s dedication to nurturing the arts and creative expression in his community.
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AIGA Chattanooga: Paul served as co-founder and president between 2004-2007 and again from 2009-2010, underscoring his long-term commitment to the advancement of graphic design through education and networking within the professional community. He has been an active member of AIGA since 1997, reflecting his dedication to the design profession.
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Trust for Public Land (Chattanooga Chapter): As a board member from 2011-2015, Paul contributed toward enhancing public spaces and promoting conservation policies that foster environmental stewardship in Chattanooga.
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Crabtree Farms: His involvement as a board member from 2005-2010 supported sustainable farming and farm education initiatives that benefit the local community.
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Urban Art Institute: Serving on the board from 1998-2000, Paul helped steer artistic initiatives that provided vital support to the arts in the Chattanooga area.
Specialties
Paul Rustand specializes in a range of areas crucial for successful branding and design in today’s fast-paced marketplace. His specialization includes:
- Brand Audit: Conducting comprehensive evaluations of existing brands to identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for enhancement.
- Discovery/Market Research Reports: Utilizing research methodologies to provide insights and recommendations grounded in user needs and market trends.
- Developing Communications: Crafting effective communication strategies that are clear and impactful, ensuring alignment with branding initiatives.
- Identity Design: Creating distinctive and memorable brand identities that resonate across various platforms.
- Expanded Visual Articulation: Developing integrated visual expressions across different media, ensuring cohesive brand representation.
- Naming and Taglines: Producing compelling names and taglines that encapsulate brand essence and resonate with target audiences.
- Strategic Mission and Vision: Formulating strategic frameworks that guide organizations in marketing efforts and public relations initiatives.
- Creative Communication, Advertising, and Marketing: Designing targeted and innovative solutions that drive client engagements and foster brand loyalty.
- Print and Web Design: Excelling in both traditional and digital design landscapes, ensuring consistency and functionality while meeting client specifications.
Through these specialties, Paul has consistently delivered high-caliber branding strategies and designs that not only capture attention but also result in measurable outcomes for clients.
Conclusion
Paul Rustand embodies the spirit of creativity and community collaboration. His educational foundations, achievements in the design field, and comprehensive skill set combined with a robust sense of social responsibility paint a picture of an individual who is not only committed to his profession but also to making a meaningful impact in his community. His efforts continue to inspire both emerging and established creatives alike, making him a respected figure in the world of design and beyond.
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Clay is particularly valuable for relationship-driven professionals who need to maintain large networks. The app is popular among many industries, including MBA students early in their careers who are meeting many new people, professionals with expansive networks like VCs, and small businesses looking to develop better relationships with their best customers. Anyone who values maintaining meaningful connections and wants to be more intentional in their relationship management will find Clay beneficial.
Clay offers competitive pricing in the personal CRM market. Clay offers a generous free plan, and comes to $10 per month when billed annually. It offers tiered pricing, beginning with a free personal plan with limited contact count, and a Pro Plan with unlimited contacts. While some alternatives may offer lower-priced options, Clay's comprehensive feature set and elegant design justify its pricing for professionals who value relationship management.
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