About
David Pollard, Founder and Creative Director of Zowen Studios, combines imaginative passion, a rigorous work ethic, and decades of commercial art experience to each client and each project before him. Known for his flexibility, integrity, and forward-thinking design, Pollard has delivered high-quality products to organizations around the globe—across publishing, biotech, renewable energy, travel, and luxury marine fields. His work has been recognized with over 20 Ozzie and Hermes awards, and he has had the honor of serving as a judge of the Folio Ozzies for many years.
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Pollard began his career in magazines, and this informs the work of Zowen Studios—where strong concepts, disciplined typography, and carefully considered imagery are central to every project. From publication redesigns and brand systems to photography, advertising, and digital experiences, the work balances editorial precision with strategic clarity.
At its core, Zowen Studios believes the most effective creative is thoughtful, intentional, and built to be read, explored, and remembered. We invite you to reach out today.
Services
Branding
Our branding services are designed to create a unique and compelling identity for your brand. We work closely with our clients to develop brand strategies that resonate with their target audience, ensuring a strong and memorable brand presence.
Strategy
At Zowen Studios, we believe that a strong strategic foundation is essential for every creative project. Our team collaborates with clients to develop comprehensive strategies that guide the creative process and ensure that the final outcome aligns with their business objectives.
Research
Research forms the backbone of our creative process. We delve deep into market trends, consumer behavior, and industry insights to inform our design and storytelling approach, ensuring that our solutions are not only visually appealing but also resonate with the target audience.
Art Direction
Our art direction services aim to bring visual concepts to life with creativity and finesse. We work closely with clients to translate their vision into compelling visuals that communicate their brand message effectively across various platforms and mediums.
Graphic Design
With a focus on innovation and creativity, our graphic design services cover a wide spectrum of visual communication needs. From print to digital media, we create captivating designs that leave a lasting impression and drive engagement.
Press
Three 2025 Folio Awards Wins
The Folio Awards are one of the magazine industry's most prestigious competitions, and in 2025 they drew more than 1,000 entries across nearly 170 categories. David Pollard, Founder of Zowen Studios, took home three 1st-Place prizes, highlighting the excellence of his skill in contemporary editorial design.
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Pollard received two wins for Smartfarm Today in "Design, Association / Nonprofit > B2B, Single Magazine Issue" and "Best Feature Design," and one win for Further Magazine in "Design, Consumer,Single Magazine Issue" Both magazines were produced while Pollard was contracted with Blue Creative Group.
David Pollard of Zowen Studios Appears at In Good Company Pop-Up Exhibit and Artist Talk at UConn Stamford
David Pollard, Principal at Zowen Studios, appeared as a featured artist and speaker at In Good Company, a one-night pop-up exhibit and artist talk held at the University of Connecticut Stamford Campus on November 3, 2025. The event celebrated creativity, connection, and the role of community in shaping artistic practice.
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Discussing his work across fine art, illustration, and creative direction, Pollard shared insights he has gleaned throughout his career, and how being part of creative circles has supported and influenced his growth over the decades. He also offered feedback to young artists and students at the beginning of their journeys.
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The event was curated by Tara Blackwell and hosted by Uconn Stamford and the Stamford Art Association, with support from the City of Stamford Arts and Culture Grant.
Zowen Studios Selected for Graphis Designers
for Peace Poster Exhibition and Publication
Zowen Studios is honored to be selected for exhibition and inclusion in the accompanying book for the Graphis Designers for Peace Poster Exhibition, a global initiative launched by Graphis in collaboration with legendary designer Kit Hinrichs of Studio Hinrichs.
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Created in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Designers for Peace call for entries drew an extraordinary international response, uniting designers from around the world around a shared message of peace. The resulting body of work highlights the power of visual storytelling to convey empathy, provoke reflection, and inspire action during a time of global crisis.
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The exhibition features posters created largely after the onset of the invasion and will be shown at venues worldwide, offering audiences a timely and deeply human perspective through the eyes of today’s leading designers. A distinguished international jury—chaired by Kit Hinrichs and including Charles S. Anderson, David Carson, Luke Hayman, Armando Milani, and others—selected the work.
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All profits from the exhibition and publication support humanitarian relief efforts in Ukraine through José Andrés’ World Central Kitchen and International Relief Teams. Zowen Studios is proud to contribute to this collective expression of solidarity and to stand alongside the global design community in support of peace.