Hi, I’m Max Phillips, the founder and heart behind Maxtana Creative. For over 20 years, I have been crafting thoughtful, purpose-driven design and branding that helps organizations tell their stories, engage communities, and achieve real impact.
From Not Bad Design to Maxtana Creative
My journey started as co-owner and design partner at Not Bad Design, a small but mighty creative studio in Lancaster, PA. At NBD, I learned the power of nimble collaboration and community-focused work, building brands for nonprofits, local businesses, civic groups, and cultural institutions. Projects like Community Heritage Partners, Creative Works of Lancaster and the Lancaster Pride Festival shaped my approach. I believe design is more than aesthetics, it is storytelling with purpose.
Bridging Past Experience with Today’s Practice
Building on the collaborative, community-focused work from Not Bad Design, I’ve since contributed to projects like redesigning Community Transit’s website and helping EcoSide Seattle establish a strong digital presence. These experiences reinforced my commitment to thoughtful, user-centered design and strategic storytelling. Today, I bring that same approach to Maxtana Creative, combining deep expertise with a flexible, remote-first model tailored to meet each client’s unique goals.
What Maxtana Creative Is Today
Maxtana Creative is my independent, remote-first creative practice. I bring hands-on expertise in branding, UX/UI, digital design, and creative strategy, partnering directly with clients to solve their unique challenges. When projects call for it, I collaborate with trusted specialists to build custom teams tailored to the work, but my focus remains on delivering clear, impactful, story-driven creative that moves ideas forward.
How I Work
I believe in open, transparent collaboration, iterative design, and crafting creative work that aligns with your values and goals. Whether you are a nonprofit, a startup, or an established organization, I am here to bring clarity and vision to your brand and digital presence.
Let’s Create Something Meaningful Together
If you are looking for a creative partner who combines strategic insight with design craft and a passion for storytelling, I would love to hear about your next project.