Early Career: Toby or Not To Be

From the moment she first put paint to paper, it was clear that Toby Meyer, formerly know as Toby Schmidt, was destined to become an artist. Awards and accolades followed, as did studies and a career. After graduating from the Philadelphia College of Art (now University of the Arts) she began working in the graphics departments at two local television stations. This in turn led her to design-related work in Philadelphia's leading advertising agencies, including N. W. Ayer & Son, Gray & Rogers and The Brownstein Group. Branching out further, she helped brand leading cosmetic and pharmaceutical products for GlaxoSmithKline.

The Logo Maven

Toby left the corporate world to explore her entrepreneurial spirit. That independence provided the freedom to work with small and big companies including restaurants, museums, hotels, and non-profits as well as other entrepreneurs. Toby’s trademark was a unique mix of visual puns, creativity and deep-felt enthusiasm. Philadelphia Magazine named her the city’s “Most Competent” graphic designer, cementing her position as Philly's go-to logo maven.

Mixed Media Fine Arts

Toby’s paintings and mixed media work received praise from both critics and buyers alike. She has had numerous one-woman shows at top fine arts galleries, including The Philadelphia Art Alliance, The Gross McCleaf Gallery, and the Adam Gimbel Gallery in NYC.

Because People Do Judge Books By Their Covers

From 1992 to 2007, Toby served as the Creative Director for Running Press Book Publishers where she designed over three hundred book jackets and package displays. She ensured that covers reflected the vision of the authors and the imagination of readers. Toby was also the creative force behind many of the original book ideas and gift concepts that were produced.

Invitation Station

Over the years as a freelancer and at Running Press, Toby had the opportunity to design innumerable, one-of-a-kind invitations that set the tone for each diverse event, whether corporate, personal, or fundraising. Toby has always shied away from the ordinary to create invitations unparalleled in expressing the special characteristics and message of the person, event or company.

Still Collaborating and Creating

Most recently, Toby was commissioned by The DoubleTree Hotel to create more than 70 large-scale graphic photo pieces for their newly renovated property on Broad St. in Philadelphia. Her pieces were built around three distinct but integrated themes: iconic Philadelphia landmarks for the guest rooms, famous presidents and a patriotic theme for the Presidential Suites, and Philadelphia’s urban gardens, parks and fountains for the beautiful Garden Suites.

Inspiration Everywhere

Toby’s passion and love for what she does drives her work. She finds inspiration in the visual world that surrounds her -- travel, cultural events, flea markets or auctions, and of course her loved ones, friends, and talented colleagues. Toby is most content when she is working on a challenging assignment, solving a creative puzzle and working with talented individuals.

Please contact the artist to discuss collaborating on your next project.