Kyle Barnes, originally hailing from Detroit, Michigan, epitomizes the universality of creative ideas with his profound insight into their power to transcend cultures, markets, and technologies. This accomplished Creative Services Director has shaped a career marked by a relentless pursuit to uncover the human truths behind every concept, driving deep connections across diverse audiences. His multifaceted expertise spans graphic design, advertising, marketing, branding, digital media, product design, and entertainment, underscoring his commitment to storytelling and community building.

Raised on Detroit's east-side, Kyle turned to the arts following the tragic loss of his mother. This pivotal moment, supported by his grandmother's encouragement to join youth art classes and later, the College of Creative Studies, steered him towards interning and later founding an airbrushing studio during high school in the local Eastland Mall. Kyle's academic achievements at Michigan State University, where he earned a BA in Advertising with a specialization in Graphic Design, were highlighted by multiple Student Mid-Michigan Addy awards.

Kyle's career advanced from a Graphic Designer to Brand Manager at CASE Credit Union, and later to significant roles as a Art Director at Lansing Community College and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, where he played a key role in the Pure Michigan campaign. His leadership in these roles enhanced Michigan's appeal in travel and business sectors, laying a solid foundation for his later work. These accomplishments and continued success lead Kyle towards his most challenging position to that date as the Director of Design for Michigan State University Athletics Department. Kyle’s visionary approach profoundly shaped the branding and marketing strategies for Spartan sports, significantly impacting various athletic programs such as Football, Mens and Women’s Basketball, Baseball, Volleyball and Gymnastics delivering a consistent branding presence, increased fan pride and engagement as well as overall appeal against other competing collegiate sports sports departments throughout the country. 

Transitioning from the Director of Design for Michigan State University Athletics, Kyle now leads Urban Ad Shop, a multicultural advertising agency he founded to champion Black-owned and diverse businesses. Here, Kyle's vision is to deliver professional-grade visual solutions that foster respect, pride, and confidence, ensuring these businesses compete on equal footing within the industry.

Kyle's leadership at Urban Ad Shop and his ongoing role as a mentor reflect his profound dedication to fostering diversity and inclusion. His work—ranging from high-profile projects with McDonald's, Nike, BET, and Stellar TV to impactful community engagements—demonstrates a commitment to elevating the narratives of underrepresented communities through innovative marketing and design.

An active member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and a mentor to black youth, Kyle’s personal and professional life showcases his passion for nurturing future leaders and advocating for social equity, making him a pivotal figure in both his community and the creative industry.