Introduction
RipBang is not just a name—it represents distinct creative entities that make waves in graphic design, environmental branding, and multimedia production. Whether you’re a client seeking standout visual storytelling or a design aficionado exploring industry talent, RipBang delivers. In this article, you’ll get a deep dive into six key facets of what RipBang offers and why it matters.
1. Creative Visionaries Behind RipBang Pictures
RipBang Pictures, based in Silver Spring, Maryland, is helmed by seasoned visual artists Dick Bangham and Linda Bangham. Dick is a renowned designer, illustrator, and art director whose work spans decades—including album covers, posters, and music packaging since the 1970s. Linda brings over 30 years of multimedia and graphic production experience, with a background in communications and a strong track record in web design and project direction.
Together, they’ve created a powerhouse studio offering multimedia production, video animation, print graphics, branding, and design for a rich roster of musicians, films, and events. Their creative synergy is evident in everything from storytelling through visuals to crafting cohesive design packages.
2. Services and Signature Projects
RipBang Pictures’ expertise shines across multiple mediums:
Music Packaging & Graphic Design
They’ve produced artwork for artists like Nils Lofgren, Cathy Fink & Marcy Marxer, Blind Boy Billy, and The Nighthawks, developing visually rich album art and booklets—some project examples include CD and gatefold LP packages.
Animated Music Videos & Post-Production
The studio writes, storyboards, animates, edits, and produces music videos such as “Zoom a Little Zoom” and “BoBo The Bear” for Grammy-winning artists.
Documentaries and Film Graphics
They’ve contributed to productions like “Feast Your Ears”, a documentary aired by PBS/WETA, handling production, post-production, graphic elements, animation, and web design.
Branding, Logos, Event Posters
Their portfolio includes logos for Takoma Radio, posters for Little Feat’s 50th anniversary, and a variety of event flyers showcasing their adaptability across genres.
3. Legacy & Influence in Washington’s Music & Design Scene
Dick Bangham is described by The Washington Post as “the most prolific designer of record and CD art … the Washington area has ever seen,” with an output likely exceeding a thousand album covers. His designs have graced releases by icons like Mary Chapin Carpenter, Nils Lofgren, Chuck Brown, Little Feat, Black Uhuru, and George Clinton.
What sets his work apart is his old-school creative process—starting sketches with pencil and paper before translating them digitally—imbuing a warmth and authenticity that resonate deeply in music fans. Influential collaborations with artists like Neon Park and the legacy of Root Boy Slim have shaped the region’s music-visual culture.
4. RipBang Studios: Experience Branding Meets Architecture
Another iteration, RipBang Studios, merges narrative, architecture, graphics, and ornament to create immersive branded environments. Originally led by architect Bob Bangham and graphic designer Rowena Macaraeg, the studio extends beyond visuals to craft spaces that “inform and build strong connections” between customers and brands.
Having designed restaurants, exhibits, sports venues, play areas, and branded commercial zones, their approach prioritizes storytelling through spatial design
Now a division of the global firm NELSON, RipBang Studios offers a full suite of services—environmental graphics, interior/architecture design, branding, and exhibit design—supported by a network of nearly 500 professionals across 35 locations.
5. Why RipBang Stands Out
Uniqueness
At their core, both RipBang entities are defined by their interdisciplinary approach—blending illustration, traditional media, and cutting-edge production to create distinctive experiences, from cover art to immersive spaces.
Legacy & Recognition
Dick Bangham’s legacy elevates the brand—his work is celebrated, deeply rooted in the local creative tradition, and carried forward through both new and preserved projects
Adaptability
RipBang adapts to diverse project types—whether static packaging, animated media, or architectural storytelling—making it a versatile partner in creative ventures.
Collaborative Leadership
The studios are steered by professionals deeply versed in their disciplines: Dick and Linda’s multimedia finesse, Bob and Rowena’s environmental design prowess—all now integrated under Nelson’s umbrella for broader reach
6. How to Engage with RipBang
Interested parties have several touchpoints:
Explore their Portfolio & Contact
RipBang Pictures shares showcases and contact details (Silver Spring, MD; phone: 301.384.8800; emails: dick@ripbang.com and linda@ripbang.com) via their website.
Connect with RipBang Studios via Archinect
The division under NELSON based in Los Angeles, CA, can be found through professional platforms like Archinect, where you’ll find service details and leadership profiles.
Follow Social & Web Channels
RipBang has a Facebook presence (multi-media studio, Silver Spring) and RipBang Studios maintains activity on Twitter, emphasizing their branding and entertainment-focused work
Engagement typically begins with project discussions around creative goals, scale, and deliverables—whether it’s design strategy, media production, or immersive environments.
Conclusion
Whether your interests lie in media design, immersive environmental branding, or engaging storytelling, RipBang offers a legacy-backed, multidisciplinary approach that transforms concepts into compelling experiences. From the iconic artwork of Dick Bangham to space-shaping narrative environments under Nelson, RipBang remains a standout in creative domains.
