Heiko Wolfgang Ryll
“I create to push myself. Every project is an opportunity for growth, to be better than I was the day before.“
The drive to improve isn't just personal; it's how I deliver value. When I push boundaries in my own work, I bring fresh perspectives and proven strategies to help others build something meaningful.
I'm a multidisciplinary artist, educator, and strategic consultant based in Summerland, British Columbia. My practice spans photography, design, visual storytelling, program development, and community building. I'm available for projects and consulting throughout BC and beyond.
The Creative Work
I've spent over twenty-five years working in graphic design, web design, and photography. Along the way, I've had the privilege of working with incredible brands like Revlon Professional, Wella International, Sebastian International, and American Crew. My photography has been featured in finalist collections at the Contessa Awards for multiple years, which is Canada's most prestigious professional beauty competition.
My artistic process has been shaped by studying the Italian Baroque painter Caravaggio. His techniques of Tenebrism and Chiaroscuro (those extreme contrasts of light and dark to heighten drama) form the foundation of my style. When I photograph live performances in music, dance, theatre, or events, I'm not just documenting; I'm capturing the essence of the experience, discovering stories that might not be immediately apparent.
The Strategy and Building
Building is in my nature. My expertise in strategy and strategic development has enabled me to create impactful programs and partnerships across the education, non-profit, and community sectors.
Educational Innovation and Leadership
I've spent two decades transforming creative education:
Created Alberta's first government-approved 3D animation program at DevStudios
My program updates in Design and Programming increased student registration by 30%
Served as Faculty Lead at Edmonton Digital Arts College, helping the school grow from one program to four over five years, producing leaders in design, video game development, illustration, and 3D animation
Helped MacEwan University pivot to online delivery of creative courses that are still being delivered today
Created the first Micro-credential programs in Alberta and British Columbia, focused on Digital Marketing and Design
Built a mentorship program for Alberta teachers to deliver creative programming in their classrooms
Developed comprehensive photography programs covering everything from equipment fundamentals to advanced lighting, photographic intention, and creative business development
Community Impact and Results
But building isn't just about curriculum; it's about community and measurable outcomes:
Founded the Creative Lab, where 20 past students continue learning together. They've built creative businesses, broken through creative blocks, landed better positions in their fields, and applied more creative solutions to their work problems.
At Okanagan College, I established a network of community partners that secured over $1 million in funding within a year, benefiting more than 100 students through supported programming.
In the non-profit sector, I've rebuilt team structures, developed successful succession plans for leadership transitions, and secured and managed over $1 million in funding.
As a certified coach, I grew a snowboard club from 8 members in the first year to over 100 by year three. Participants have gone on to become doctors, artists, consultants, leaders, Olympic athletes, and authors.
What I Consult On
I help organizations and individuals with:
Educational program development and accreditation - From concept to government approval, I've built programs that launch careers and transform institutions
Curriculum innovation and online delivery - Designing engaging learning experiences that work in traditional and digital environments
Micro-credential and alternative education strategy - Creating accessible, industry-relevant learning pathways
Strategic program growth - Scaling educational offerings while maintaining quality and impact
Community partnership building - Creating networks that unlock funding and amplify reach
Organizational development - Restructuring teams, succession planning, and leadership transitions
Funding and grant strategy - Identifying opportunities and developing successful applications that have secured millions
Creative strategy - Applying artistic thinking to solve complex challenges in unconventional ways
My multidisciplinary background enables me to bring both analytical strategy and creative problem-solving to every project. Whether you need to build a program, secure government approval, pivot to new delivery models, strengthen your team, or reimagine your approach, I've done it before and delivered measurable results.
Beyond the Work
I'm a certified animal tracker and hiking guide. I spend time exploring nature and sharing its beauty through my photography and workshops. It might seem like a departure from studio and strategy work, but it all connects for me.
Whether I'm working in fashion photography, building educational programs, or consulting on strategic initiatives, I challenge myself to let life and spontaneity inspire my work. As technology evolves, I believe that mastering traditional art forms becomes more important. Art is about understanding our past, creating in the present, and shaping our future.
"Let's build something together. Whether you need strategic consulting, creative work, or a combination of both, I'm here to help. Reach out and let’s have a conversation."
