Meet TJ Smith
Born between the trees of Pennsylvania, TJ grew up drawing, playing outside, and imagining wild creative ideas. He earned a BS in Graphics & Communication Design from La Roche University and launched his freelance career in 2011. Since then he has built a nimble, full-service creative practice — SmithBorn Studio, based in Grand Junction, Co.
Community Minded
Ever since moving to a small mountain town in California, TJ has immersed himself deeply in every community he’s called home. In Tahoe, he served as Program Chair for AIGA Reno; in Asheville, he supported Creative Mornings; and now in Grand Junction, he sits on the Creative District board. Across each place, he looks for ways to share knowledge, uplift others, and help raise all ships.
Nature Led
TJ has always felt most at home outdoors, grounded by a lifelong connection to the woods. He seeks solace among tall trees, finding clarity in their quiet steadiness. His work follows the same rhythm, guided by a practice that honors the land and strives to do right by Mother Nature.
Logically Creative
A natural blend of reason and wonder shapes the way TJ approaches every project. His mind moves fluidly between systems and spontaneity. Building structure while leaving room for creative freedom. He’s analytical enough to see the underlying pattern, intuitive enough to follow the spark, and observant enough to recognize what others might miss. This harmony of order and curiosity defines how he thinks, works, and solves.
Fun Facts
+ Grew up in Western Pennsylvania.
+ Used to be obsessed with wolves.
+ Broken 7 different bones.
+ Loves sushi & sweets.
+ Lived in Truckee, CA & Asheville, NC.
