I’m Laura Reilly, also known as TheThumbprint. To me, design has never been just about aesthetics—it’s a language, a problem-solving tool, and a force that shapes the way we experience the world.
I came of age at a pivotal moment in creative history, witnessing the transition from analog to digital, from print to web, from static to interactive. The moment I discovered design wasn’t just an art form but a language, I knew I wanted to master it in every medium possible.
That hunger for knowledge carried me through multiple degrees in psychology, liberal arts, fine arts, and digital illustration. But education wasn’t enough—I immersed myself in real-world experience, working in theater, airbrushing, music stores, and any creative job I could find. I explored traditional printing methods while simultaneously diving into the emerging world of digital design. I recognized early on that technology wasn’t a threat to art but an extension of it, and I wanted to be fluent in both.
Breaking into the industry wasn’t easy. I scraped by, working retail, getting stiffed by freelance clients, sending out resumes the old-fashioned way. Then, I landed a job at a tech startup—just as social media and digital advertising were taking off. I went from web design to mobile, from mobile to advertising, and eventually led my own team. Over the course of sixteen years, I worked on thousands of campaigns for brands like Disney, Honda, and Macy’s. Every challenge pushed me to refine my skills, stay ahead of industry shifts, and navigate the relentless pace of a rapidly evolving digital world. Those years weren’t just time spent; they were time invested—in knowledge, in innovation, and in mastering the art of adaptability.
But my passion never faded. What drives me isn’t just the work, but the evolution—the hunger to keep learning, to push boundaries, to make something better today than I did yesterday. In an age where AI-generated content floods the creative space, I believe human-made art is more valuable than ever. The future belongs to those who keep creating, keep experimenting, and keep finding ways to connect—not just to trends, but to people. That’s what I do. That’s what I love.
Ready to Collaborate?
Whether you have an exciting job opportunity, a creative project in mind, or simply want to connect, I'd love to hear from you! Feel free to reach out to me through my contact form or via email at thethumbprint@gmail.com.
