Profile

About Me

Hi, I’m Brent Garren — a seasoned web developer, web designer, and graphic designer with over 30 years of professional experience. Since 2000, I’ve been successfully self-employed, providing clients with end-to-end digital solutions, from visual design to full-stack development and server management. I’m currently open to freelance, part-time, or remote opportunities where I can bring my skillset to collaborative teams or independent projects.

What I Do

Web Development (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, MySQL)
Web Design & UI/UX (Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, layout design)
Graphic Design (branding, publication, advertising)
Server Management (hosting, Linux, Apache, .htaccess)
CMS Development

Whether it’s building a CMS from the ground up or crafting a clean, responsive design — I take pride in solving both technical and creative challenges.

Remote & Reliable

Based in Asheville, North Carolina, I’ve worked remotely with clients across the U.S., including Florida, Colorado, Alabama, Arizona, and New York. I'm comfortable handling projects independently or as part of a distributed team.

Self-Taught & Always Learning

Much of what I know, I taught myself — from early days in Photoshop and HTML to mastering PHP and server configuration. I’m a hands-on learner who thrives in real-world problem-solving. And I love teaching what I’ve learned. I’ve led classes and seminars in various settings, including:

Teaching Assistant at SUNY–Purchase
Continuing Education Instructor at AB-Tech (Asheville, NC)
Short courses at CityMac (Asheville, NC)

From Fine Arts to Full Stack

I earned my BFA from SUNY–Purchase in 1997, following earlier studies at UNC Asheville. My journey from fine arts into graphic design, and eventually web development, gives me a unique blend of creativity and technical depth. What started with layout and image editing quickly turned into scripting, coding, and hosting. I’ve worn many hats — and I’m comfortable switching between them.

Education

SUNY–Purchase (1997) B.F.A., Fine Arts

UNC Asheville (1985–1989, 1991) Fine Arts program

Tech Snapshot

	Years Experience
HTML / CSS	27+
Javascript	25+
PHP	24+
MySQL	24+
Apache / Linux	22+
Regular Expressions	21+
jQuery / AJAX / JSON	14+
Adobe Photoshop	31+
Adobe Illustrator	31+
Layout/Design Software	33+

Work Highlights

Everett Studios – White Plains, NY Photo editing and print prep (1997–1998)

Mountain Xpress – Asheville, NC Ad and cover design (1999–2000)

Self-Employed – Asheville, NC & Remote (2000–Present) Web development, design, hosting, and server management

Team-Oriented

I’m a lifelong team sports player — and that mindset carries into my work. I enjoy collaboration, competition, and being part of a team that supports and challenges each other.

Let’s Work Together

If you’re looking for someone who can design, code, troubleshoot, and teach, let’s connect. I bring decades of experience, a collaborative mindset, and a deep commitment to quality work.