About Me

You might wonder why I go by Sutton. Simple—I prefer my last name. It’s been my go-to in the professional world, making life easier when there are too many Michaels in the room.

I spent a decade immersed in BMX and skateboarding—not just as hobbies, but as an obsession. What drew me in was its unconventional nature. While most kids played organized sports, I was out with a shovel, moving dirt to build ramps, testing my limits, and trying to land tricks that left me bruised more often than not. Those summers shaped me—endless trial and error, pushing past failure, and embracing the grind to master something that didn’t come easy.

That mindset never left me. It influences how I approach design and problem-solving today. The DIY aesthetic of BMX and skate culture—loud, unapologetic, disruptive—has stuck with me. Before social media, our inspiration came from magazines, zines, and album covers. That era’s raw, high-impact visuals shaped how I think about branding. I’ve carried that same ethos into my work, creating bold, strategic designs that stand out and break the mold.

I’ve led creative direction for brands like Motto, crafting everything from identity systems to omnichannel campaigns. I specialize in design that doesn’t just look good—it works, tells a story, and connects. Whether shaping brand identities, refining user experiences, or executing digital marketing strategies, I’m always pushing for work that’s not just effective but memorable.

These days, I’ve retired from launching off ramps, but I still bike regularly and hit the gym religiously. I’m always looking for the next challenge, the following way to push boundaries—whether in design, branding, or problem-solving.

I still admire people who redefine their craft—Tony Hawk, who turned skateboarding into a global movement, and designers like David Carson, who reject convention in favor of what works. To me, great designs aren’t about playing it safe—it’s about making something that can’t be ignored.

Recent projects like “Straighten Smarter “and “Motto Patient Education” showcase my ability to create strategic, visually engaging, and user-friendly designs. Let’s collaborate to elevate your brand and craft memorable digital experiences.

~Michael Sutton // hello@callmesutton.com