GDUSA - Graphic Design USA - February 2023 by Graphic Design USA

PEOPLE TO WATCH IN 2023 STUDENTS TO WATCH

GD USA www.gdusa.com FEBRUARY 2023 GRAPHIC DESIGN USA

FEBRUARY 2023

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I got chills when I read the proﬁles of our 2023 ‘People To Watch’ and ‘Students To Watch.’ In all fairness, I was in the throes of my ﬁrst case of COVID — as was Sasha and most of our immediate zip code — so that may be the explanation.

But I choose to believe that the shivering was an deep-seated reaction to experiencing the collective aspirations and accomplishments, the wit and wisdom, the heart and humanity of these individuals as they tell their stories, digest profound change, and afﬁrm that design matters.

Humility is called for at such times, so we invite you to read and draw your own conclusions except to note a few broad themes:

• This piercing moment of clarity has crystallized and ampliﬁed the power and potential of graphic design to shape commerce, culture and causes, especially when design is effective, integral and serves the values of authenticity, transparency and human connection.

• How we interact with each other and consume information, products and services has forever changed, and successful graphic designers are embracing that change.

• Graphic designers are experiencing an elevated role in business and society and many skillsets are in high demand; this is tempered by short term economic worries and longer terms fears that AI and similar technologies may prove undermining.

• Out of the pandemic crucible, a more balanced and efﬁcient workplace and work-life balance has emerged and will continue to evolve.

• ‘Graphic design’ is (small d) democratizing. There are great designs and designers everywhere, less barriers to entry, more emphasis on individuation. With this comes, as in so much of society, less reverence for the past or appreciation for traditional community.

• Many creative professionals are refocusing their energies, at least in part, on ‘designing for good,’ which is to say, addressing culturally and politically relevant issues that refresh their mission and those of their clients.

What does it all add up to? I defer to Kim Vandrilla of The Clorox Company:

“Today design lives in our society and culture and consumers have come to expect a heightened visual standard to be built into a brand’s very ethos and integrated into a company’s ‘why’ . . . We can no longer merely layer design atop a marketing strategy — consumers won’t allow it — and instead a creative vision needs to beat in the very heart of a brand.”

This may be the anti-virals speaking, but I’m feeling like the best is yet to come.

GDK

LETTER FROM THE EDITORS | WE STILL GET CHILLS

GORDON KAYE AND SASHA KAYE-WALSH ARE EDITORS AT GDUSA Comments, suggestions and letters can be sent to editorial@ gdusa.com.

GDUSA - Graphic Design USA Volume 60 / No. 1 January/February 2023 Kaye Publishing Corporation (ISSN0274-7499/USPS227020). Published 6 times a year with combined issues in January/February, March/April, May/June, July/August, September/October, November/December. Executive, editorial and advertising ofﬁces at 89 Fifth Avenue, Suite 901, New York NY 10003. Phone: 212.696.4380, Fax: 212.696.4564, www.gdusa.com.

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8 PEOPLE TO WATCH

GDUSA starts each year by featuring selected creative and design professionals who embody the spirit of the creative community and some special combination of talent, leadership, newsworthiness, insight, business savvy and/or community involvement. For six decades, this endeavor has provided a glimpse into what moves, motivates, worries and inspires — especially as we take the opportunity of our 60th anniversary to take a breath and try to make sense of where the business of graphic design is heading. In a growing ﬁeld brimming with brilliance, we know our limits and recognize that our selections are subjective. Still, we think you’ll ﬁnd this year’s cohort as worthy — and exceptional — as the many who have come before.

66 STUDENTS TO WATCH

With the help of leading art and design schools nationwide, we identify top graphic design students nearing graduation. It’s a win-win all around: the students get recognized and we get energized. This year’s subtext is, of course, how the turmoil of our times is shaping experience and expectations. We honor students from the traditional design schools with heavyweight reputations. We also reached out to wonderful public and private universities, as well as select online programs, for depth and texture. In the next print and digital edition, we’ll publish our annual list of Top Design Schools + Programs from whence many of these rising stars . . . well . . . rise.

110 OPINION

Paul Flaharty of talent solutions ﬁrm Robert Half on how to build your personal brand, why its worth the time and effort to reﬁne your narrative and visual expression, and, most vital, why this all matters for your career in 2023.

GDUSA.COM

Our popular website features daily news, ideas and information, as well as two current features that perfectly complement this print edition. First is a complete roster of past People To Watch spanning six decades, with names like Adams, Ahrens, Anderson, Axios, Bass, Carbone, Chase, Chermayeff, Church, Danne, Dorfsman, Duffy, Gill, Glaser, Greenberg, Hische, Kidd, Kudos, Landor, Lois, Lupton, Morla, Oberman, Sagmeister, Valicenti, Vignelli, Walsh, and hundreds more. Second up is our curated compilation of Designer-Friendly Suppliers + Services who serve and support the creative community. There is a symbiotic relationship between creators and their tools; live links makes it easy to connect with these invaluable partners.

CONTENTS | FEBRUARY 2023

Master visual storytelling at SCAD

Say hi and apply at scad.edu/visit

From advertising to graphic design and photography to user experience design, SCAD offers the full package of creative degrees to launch your creative career. * According to a recent study, 99% of Spring 2019 graduates were employed, pursuing further education, or both within 10 months of graduation.

ABOUT US

For 60 years — since 1963 to be exact — Graphic Design USA (GDUSA) has been a source of news and information for graphic designers and the broader creative community. We are located on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan NYC, on the same famed avenue and just a few blocks down from where the ﬁrst edition was conceived and produced.

GDUSA covers news, people, project, trends, technology, products and services. In addition to the print magazine, the brand now encompasses a 50,000 visitor-a-month website, a monthly e-newsletter to 60,000+ e-subscribers, a digital edition of the magazine, and several national design competitions that culminate in showcases of the best in Graphic Design, Package Design, Web Design, Inhouse Design, and Health + Wellness Design.

Other initiatives include annual recognition of leading Graphic Designers to Watch and promising Students To Watch, Socially Responsible Designers, Top Design Schools, and periodic benchmark reader surveys on the state of print and paper in design, technology in design, design education, stock imagery in design, and much more.

Learn more at www.gdusa.com

ABOUT THE COVER

Liz Danzico is a self-described “part designer, part educator and full time dog owner.” She is currently a VP of Design at Microsoft, and before that SVP of Design at NPR. She is also founding chair of the MFA Interaction Design program at SVA. Liz is among 60 creative professionals featured in our 60th annual People To Watch editorial feature. It all starts at PAGE 8.

GD USA

Gordon Kaye PUBLISHER

Ilana Greenberg CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Sasha Kaye-Walsh EDITOR | WEBSITE + SOCIAL MEDIA

Gordon Kaye EDITOR | PRINT

Althea Edwards READER SERVICES

Angelo Abbondante ACCOUNTS MANAGER

Jennifer Hoff Scott Sczcypiorski INTERNET SERVICES

Maliya Malik DESIGN + SOCIAL MEDIA INTERN

Jay Lewis

Jeffrey Rosenberg PHOTOGRAPHY

Ron Andriani ADVERTISING SALES + INTEGRATED MARKETING + BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

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212.696.4380 randriani@ gdusa.com

Milton L. Kaye 1921– 2016 FOUNDER

COVER PAPER CREDIT : The cover of this special edition of GDUSA is printed on FSC-certified Kallima Coated Cover C2S, part of the Kallima Paper family of FSC-certified coated cover paperboard, manufactured by the Tembec Paper Group. A leading advocate of sustainability, Kallima has a distinct low-density high-bulk construction resulting in less trees used and signficant cost savings to the customer. Contact: kallimapaper.com and 1.800.411.7011

GRAPHIC DESIGN USA

A GRADUATE DEGREE AS UNIQUE AS YOU ARE. The Multimedia, Photography and Design program is for students who are passionate about expanding their career and gaining industry ready skills in the ﬁeld of graphic design, motion design, 3D design, XR and immersive design, UI/UX design as well as photography and cinematography: all hands-on.

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©2023 Billerud Americas Corporation. All rights reserved. Our name means quality and commitment, sustainability and integrity. We have a product for every project, each designed to build brands and business for our customers. To learn more, visit us at billerud.com. Billerud Americas Corporation 8540 Gander Creek Drive Miamisburg, Ohio 45342 800 258 8852 billerud.com Billerud. The ﬁrst choice for graphic and label papers and market pulp in North America.

PEOPLE TO WATCH

8 GDUSA

FOR 60 YEARS, THE FIRST EDITION OF GDUSA HAS RECOGNIZED

‘PEOPLE TO WATCH’ WHO EMBODY THE SPIRIT OF THE CREATIVE COMMUNITY.

Individuals we know and respect for a combination of talent, success, leadership, newsworthiness, influence, thought-leadership and community service. To kick off our 60th anniversary year, we hear from 60 people about the past, present and — most important — the future of graphic design. In a field so deep in talent and broad in numbers, this is clearly a subjective process. We hope you enjoy our 2023 selections, and appreciate their take on where the creative profession has been and where it is going.

tWENDY RUYLE

CO-OWNER

5 BY 5 DESIGN, MINNEAPOLIS, MN

At 5 by 5 Design, we believe design leads to emotion, which leads to action. We lay out a whip-smart strategy, manage the details, and deliver useful tools that breathe life into your brand. 5 by 5 Design’s clients include iconic commercial brands like MillerKnoll and Deli Express, philanthropic leaders like McKnight Foundation and Northwest Minnesota Foundation, large nonprofits like United Women in Faith and the State of Minnesota, and small vibrant business like Nwyze and Sagiliti, among dozens of others in various locations, sectors, and industries.

With 30+ years of experience, Wendy plays the role of explorer, designer, and quality controller — your creative director who makes sure ideas work. A few insider notes: She’s a night owl and does her best work after 10 a.m. But she’ll make it to your morning meeting if she must. She thinks a walk or a bike ride will almost always give you ideas to solve a problem. She will never make a snap decision. She likes to take time to consider all the options. And, she loves independent theater. If you do too, ask her what to see this weekend. Her work has been recognized in publications and award shows including AIGA Design Show of Excellence, the Minnesota PSRA Classics, Package Design, Graphic Design USA, Communication Arts, Graphis, Print, and HOW.

Looking forward to 2023, are you optimistic about the role and impact of Graphic Design and Visual Communication in Business? Culture? Causes? Why do you feel that way? Have the events and disruptions of the past few years changed the role or trajectory of Graphic Design?

I’m a realist but I like to stay optimistic. I think the more challenging the world is the more we need good design and the more opportunities we have to make a difference. The disruptions of the past few years — division, misinformation, scarcity of resources, health concerns, the uncovering of inequity — can only be resolved by systemic changes. Change requires action which requires the right emotions to be stirred. That’s where good design and communication come in. We can use them to inspire real connections with one another. It’s not easy and it doesn’t happen overnight, but we can make a difference with every choice we make.

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years? Saul and Elaine Bass

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agencies, or inhouse departments of the past 60 years?

I’d have to say Pentagram because of their unique ability to have 25 different principles work in harmony to create influential work in so many sectors over so many years.

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

MTV’s early branding was groundbreaking and perfect for the medium and the audience.

Favorite or most influential design project or campaign?

Steve Frykholm’s Herman Miller Picnic Posters

| THE CRITERIA |

GDUSA 9

2023

ELLIOTT SCOTT

CREATIVE DIRECTOR, APPLIED DESIGN, NEW YORK, NY

Elliott’s experience as a designer has led him to work in London, Dublin, Sydney, and New York; across a wide range of industries, brands, and products. He’s a passionate designer — both thinker and doer — and revels in projects that require both.

Recent projects include campaign and identity for Shops at the Oculus at Westfield World Trade Center, crafting an ultra-high-legibility typeface for the Braille Institute of America, and detailed mapping work for MTA Long Island Railroad. Clients include NYU Langone Health, Hudson Square BID, Port Authority of NY & NJ, Downtown Alliance, Cleanlogic, and Pfizer, to name just a few. Prior to joining Applied Design, Elliott worked at Landor Associates, Saatchi & Saatchi Design, Interbrand, Moon Communications, and Zinc. Past clients include Bose, Alcoa/Times Square Alliance, Citi, New York Life, A1 Mobilkom, City of Brisbane, British Handball Association, Mercy Ships, and the World Health Organization.

Elliott has been fortunate to lead and be part of award-winning teams recognized by D&AD, GDUSA, AIGA, and Fast Company Innovation By Design.

I am optimistic about the future of graphic design and the graphic designers that will be building that future. Graphic design is such a powerful tool to communicate ideas, convey information, and shape public opinion that there is a lot of responsibility to ensure we do that with honesty and integrity.

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art director(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

The obvious answers are the Scher, Glaser, Bass, and Sagmeisters of the world. All great. But, I believe the countless unknown designers that put a lot of effort into the forgettable things that make our lives just a fraction easier on a daily basis are just as influential.

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agency(s), or in-house department(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

I’m a fan of Wolff Olins for coming up with their big boundary-pushing ideas and Mucca for their attention to the small details. I’m proud of our work at Applied Design — we’ve done our best to positively impact our hometown of New York City and beyond, in big and small ways too.

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

My all-time favorite monogram is V&A, my favorite icon is the Bass Girl Scouts (bring it back, central parts are in again), and my favorite lettering is for Jurassic Park (I drew that thing 65 million times as a kid).

Favorite or most influential design project or campaign in any medium for the past 60 years?

It’s not really a graphic design project, but I love love love the Nike ISPA and Space Hippie lines. They’re super cool, the graphics are amazingly futuristic but familiar, and the products are stunning. The approach of reusing, repurposing, and recontextualizing waste products is phenomenal. It’s good to know we’ll be stylish and comfy in the BladeRunner times that are fast approaching.

Most influential design products, services, or technology of the past 60 years?

Adobe has been pretty great. Adobe opened design up to a much wider audience and made making things a lot faster. Canva is doing the same thing, giving the tools over to more people, which is great.

10 GDUSA 2023 | PEOPLE TO WATCH

CESAR RIVERA

VISUAL DESIGN BRANCH CHIEF CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION

(CDC) ATLANTA, GA

A San Antonio native, Cesar Rivera developed a passion for design at an early age, earning his first competitive awards during high school. Following service in the United States Army (HOOAH!), he continued to garner design awards as he earned his associate’s degrees in design from San Antonio College in 2005, then his bachelor’s degree in Communication Design in 2007 and his master’s degree in 2015 both from Texas State University. Cesar’s work has been recognized with more than 50 awards from top organizations such as Graphis, AIGA, and AdFed.

Cesar joined the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in July 2020 to lead the Visual Design Branch as Chief Design Officer. The branch provides expertise in visual communication design, data visualization, campaign management, medical and digital illustration, and publications and presentation design. Cesar currently serves on the AIGA Board of Directors.

Prior to joining CDC, Cesar worked at a few design companies in San Antonio on projects for Miller Lite, Splenda, Coca-Cola, and WellMed Medical, then he ran a small design studio for 7+ years. Also during that time, Cesar co-founded the AIGA San Antonio chapter, served on the professional advisory committee for San Antonio College, and taught at the university level.

One Bauhaus philosophy, make design more accessible, create functional, aesthetically pleasing products; the idea of the design process evolved from there. Humancentered design helped people understand how design professionals work through problem-solving and synthesizing information to produce more inclusive communications and products. Today’s designers need to understand how to skillfully set type, be an illustrator, edit motion, do production work, and so many more functions. Now, technology of mobile devices, social media, products such as Canva and Express, and AI image generators are making design more accessible to the masses. Someone can easily access design by reaching into their pocket.

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years? Favorite or most influential design project or campaign in any medium for the past 60 years? Package, poster, website, ad, publication or motion design, etc. Most influential design products, services or technology of the past 60 years?

There is not one brand, project, website, or product I can identify as the most influential but rather a group of them: digital media such as Google, Apple, Instagram, Vine, Twitter, LinkedIn, MySpace, etc. The products these companies have produced have changed the way we communicate with the world. Obviously some of these no longer operate or are struggling to operate but they influenced our understanding of captivating an audience. Similar to the way radio and TV changed the way we consume information, digital media has accelerated and customized the way we receive information from family, friends, and our global neighbors.

GDUSA 11

ANNE H. BERRY

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF GRAPHIC DESIGN CLEVELAND STATE UNIVERSITY, CLEVELAND, OH

Anne H. Berry is a writer, designer, and Associate Professor in the Department of Art and Design at Cleveland State University (CSU). Her research focuses on race and representation in design, and ethnic and racial disparities within the field of graphic design. She has been featured in Communication Arts magazine, Letterform Archive, and the recently published book Black, Brown + Latinx Design Educators: Conversations on Design and Race by Kelly Walters, and was interviewed for designer Maurice Cherry’s award-winning podcast Revision Path. Her published writing includes “The Virtual Design Classroom” for Communication Arts magazine, “The Black Designer’s Identity” for the inaugural issue of the Recognize anthology featuring commentary from Indigenous people and people of color, and the co-authored article “The Intersection of Electoral Politics and Design Education” for the international design research journal Message.

Berry and collaborator Sarah Edmands Martin are co-creators of the awardwinning project Ongoing Matter: Democracy, Design, and the Mueller Report (OM) which was highlighted in the AIGA Eye on Design op-ed “Making Public Information Actually Accessible to the Public is the Responsibility of Designers.” Berry is also a 2018 Design Incubation Fellow and managing editor of The Black Experience in Design: Identity,

Expression, and Reflection which was published in February 2022 and included in Fast Company’s “Best Design Books of 2022” and the 2022 Non-Obvious Book Awards Long List.

I think the most accurate thing I can say is that I am equal parts optimistic and pessimistic. I’m optimistic because I see design practitioners, researchers, and educators making genuine efforts to collaborate, learn, grow, and work at building a more equitable and inclusive world. I’m also pessimistic due to the biases that are baked into technology and technological advancement — to say nothing of the proliferation of misinformation and disinformation through design and technology — that threatens the health of societies across the globe. I hope that we are, collectively, up to the challenges that lie ahead.

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

April Greiman for the way she pushed the boundaries of design through the use of technology; Emory Douglas for his past work as the Minister of Culture for the Black Panther Party as well as the ongoing influence of his work in the midst of the current social, cultural, and political unrest in the United States.

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agency(s), or inhouse department(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

I’m naming Black designers as a group, as opposed to a specific agency or firm, because they have significantly influenced American culture yet have been systematically denied credit — over decades — for the impact of their creative contributions.

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

Apple’s “Silhouette” iPod campaign

Favorite or most influential design project or campaign in any medium for the past 60 years?

Nike’s “Just Do It” slogan/tagline and ad campaign.

12 GDUSA 2023 | PEOPLE TO WATCH

BOB VITALE

PARTNER, SVP PARTNERS, FAIRFIELD CT

How do you write a designer bio that doesn’t sound like a credentials menu? Education should probably be there: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Communication Design from Rochester Institute of Technology. Add a not-tedious but impressive client list: AEGIS, Beam Inc. Chevron, Harris Corporation, KKR, Liberty Mutual, Praxair, United Technologies. Include honors: In 2012, Bob was selected by Connecticut Creatives for “The 25 List.” Awards? Yes, quite a few, thank you very much. Roles: Husband. Father. Designer. In that order. But the meat of a bio is the outlook. Why care? Always come back to that. Bob’s unwavering compass through 35 years of every imaginable design challenge has been, in a word, audience. And that one question: Why should they care? They care when it touches them. They care when it anticipates their concerns. They care when it notches the predictable and overly safe into the terrain of admirable invention and logical thrills. Trade secrets? Love the work. Stretch every time. Trust your talented team. Leave an impression like a hand in wet cement. And sell ideas not just the gorgeous wrapping. One more: be a pleasure to work with. That really helps. Bob’s firm, SVP Partners, was founded in 1998 by Bob Vitale, Randy Smith, and Jean Page. In his community, Bob works with The Fairfield Theatre Company and Sticks for Soldiers. Done.

Looking forward to 2023, are you optimistic about the role and impact of Graphic Design and Visual Communication in Business? Culture? Causes?

I’m optimistic that the need for smart visual communications is like the need for oxygen. That won’t change. Our role as designers has been the same for decades. While technology impacted how the work got done, strong ideas expertly crafted have always been the vital ingredient. Now, as we see this disconcerting rise in misinformation and there are all sorts of questions about AI and ethics, there will be new challenges. Maybe daunting ones. No one can be sure how it will impact our profession. I think we will have to be significantly better at what we do. Machine learning will push us. But who among us isn’t accustomed to being pushed? Great work often results.

Most influential graphic designers of the past 60 years? Too many to list so here’s a smattering: Dana Arnett, Saul Bass, Michael Bierut, James Cross, Elliott Earls, Milton Glaser, April Greiman, Rich Hollant, Alexander Isley, Tibor Kalman, Bruno Monguzzi, Paul Rand, Stefan Sagmeister, Paula Scher, Rudy VanderLans, Massimo Vignelli

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agency(s), or inhouse department(s) of the past 60 years? Not a complete list by any means...

Cahan & Associates, Carbone Smolan Agency, Chermayeff & Geismar, House Industries, Liska + Associates, M&Co, Nesnadny + Schwartz, Pentagram, Push Pin Studios, Vignelli Associates, VSA Partners

2023 | PEOPLE TO WATCH 14 GDUSA

LAURA FRISVOLD

ASSOCIATE CREATIVE DIRECTOR MAVERICK STUDIOS, HUDSON, WI

As an Associate Creative Director, Laura Frisvold is helping grow the Maverick Studios creative team. Maverick Studios is the in-house agency for Inspire Brands, one of the largest restaurant companies in the U.S. With clients like Arby’s, Baskin-Robbins, Buffalo Wild Wings, Dunkin’, Jimmy John’s, and SONIC Drive-In, each day is a new creative challenge and (yummy) strategic solution.

As Inspire Brands has grown, so has the role of Maverick Studios. Laura’s leadership provides creative solutions to the brands, striving to produce quality content without compromising savings and efficiency. Laura leadership has helped establish a clear, mindful design process for the team. She focuses on the individual needs of clients and team members providing leadership and collaboration, and resulting in the Teams’ production of award-winning work.

Laura loves the variety of work at Maverick Studios. Back in 2012 she started as a graphic designer with Buffalo Wild Wings in-house creative team and had no idea it would lead to a career with multiple restaurant clients. Each day is a new challenge with a growing design team and a wide range of services from branding updates, marketing campaigns, packaging and menu design, to digital asset versioning, motion graphics and photo retouching.

Laura graduated from University of WisconsinStout with a BFA and Graphic Design concentration. She started her career with a variety of internships and entry positions before falling in love with designing for the restaurant industry.

I am very optimistic about the role and impact of Graphic Design and Visual Communications going into 2023 and beyond. We are seeing a huge trajectory of Graphic Design focused in the digital space. This has made a big impact on how the public consumes advertisements, along with the media they are searching for. Design will continue to play a key role in the success of those advertisements and products for companies.

Most influential design products, services or technology of the past 60 years?

It is hard to choose just one product, service or technology but I would have to say the Apple Computer.

GDUSA 15

BETH PONTICELLO

CREATIVE DIRECTOR, CEDC (CENTER FOR EDUCATIONAL DESIGN AND COMMUNICATION) WASHINGTON DC

Beth Ponticello has been a leader in graphic design, cultivating relationships with and elevating the missions of numerous nonprofit organizations throughout her 27 years at CEDC, a nonprofit that provides high-quality, affordable graphic design services to community and social justice organizations primarily in Washington, D.C., as well as nationally and internationally. CEDC is a sponsored ministry of the Society of the Sacred Heart, an international community of Catholic women religious engaged in the service of education.

Beth’s approach to design echoes that of CEDC, which emphasizes partnership in mission and working with groups dedicated to social justice topics such as the environment, anti-racism, and education. She has designed and produced work for a wide-range of nonprofits and groups including: Catholic Climate Covenant, Catholic Mobilizing Network, Weissberg Foundation, NASPAA, NAMI Montgomery County, Society of the Sacred Heart, Legal Services of Northern Virginia, Friendship Public Charter School, AVAAZ.org, YMCA, and LCWR. Among her extensive body of work, she excels in logo/organizational branding, publication design, and event/marketing collateral.

Over the course of her career, several of Beth’s designs have won GDUSA awards, been included in juried alumni shows at the Corcoran Museum of Art, and a selection of her photos were included in Virginia 24/7. In addition to her work at CEDC, Beth has freelanced with for-profit clients such as Kodak, Caterpillar, U.S. News & World Report and DC.gov. She holds a BFA in graphic design from the Corcoran School of the Arts + Design.

The CEDC tagline says it all, “social justice by design.” In general, I feel that graphic design and visual communication play a vital and impactful role in society. Unfortunately, it can have both a good and bad impact. With the current state of social media, the rise of faked news, faked websites, faked videos, etc. we are seeing how design can be weaponized and have a huge, negative effect on society. I am optimistic that “designing for good” shall triumph. It is my daily mission to design for good, to get my clients mission-oriented messages out to the world.

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

Recently I watched David Carson’s Master Class and it really influenced / inspired me to be more experimental and push things.

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agency(s), or inhouse department(s) of the past 60 years? Of today? Hoefler & Co., Pentagram, TBWA\Chiat\Day — late 90s work with Apple.

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

1. Apple’s icon is very flexible and has not changed “shape” since its introduction. Its changed color, texture, etc. but the shape remains.

2. FedEx because it really makes you think of how to make something simple like a logotype be more … be more complex, be more interesting, be more meaningful.

Favorite or most influential design project or campaign in any medium for the past 60 years?

Apple “To the crazy ones” commercial and Think Different posters — love this campaign.

16 GDUSA 2023 | PEOPLE TO WATCH

KATHY SARA

CREATIVE DIRECTOR CORE CREATIVE, PARSONS CORPORATION, CHICAGO IL

Kathy Sara is the Creative Director of Core Creative — a 40-member in-house creative studio within Parsons Corporation. Parsons is a digitally enabled solutions provider that focuses on creating the future of defense, intelligence, and critical infrastructure. The Core Creative team has a decades-long history of innovation, spanning graphic design, 3D visualization, illustration, videography, photography, brand development, creative writing, interactive, and creative print production. Their success is derived from what Kathy calls the “Diversity of Thought Model.” Collaboration among team members is essential, and complex deliverables are approached with a variety of perspectives. The team itself is also diverse, as it doesn’t shy away from seeking out unique talent from unconventional backgrounds.

Kathy has an interesting origin story, with a past in floral design and statuary restoration. She comes from a family of artisans and carried on the tradition. She restored statuary pieces through painting, sculpting, and airbrushing. Kathy’s work could be seen in the Chicagoland area into the Midwest. It was only later that she found her passion for graphic design and fell in love with storytelling across art and copy.

You can see in Parsons’ employee brand, Imagine Next, this is exactly the place to be creative. The focus is on hiring employees for their uniqueness, where no skill or idea goes unnoticed, and diversity brings innovation. This environment created by Parsons has allowed Core Creative to thrive for over 50 years.

Absolutely! The role and impact of graphic design and visual communication, not only in business, but everywhere, is greater now than ever before. With each passing year, there’s more and more content available across all media. Especially since the pandemic, this has made it increasingly difficult to know what to pay attention to. Our role as communicators is to aid the audience by being effective and engaging storytellers. compelling story. That is here to stay.

Favorite or most influential design project or campaign in any medium for the past 60 years? Package, poster, website, ad, publication or motion design, etc. Product (RED), a campaign that does a lot of humanitarian work. I have always been inspired by the beauty of its simplicity, use of type as design, and flexibility.

18 GDUSA 2023 | PEOPLE TO WATCH

LARRY HRUSKA

CREATIVE DIRECTOR GARRISON HUGHES DESIGN, PITTSBURGH, PA

Larry Hruska is a Creative Director for Garrison Hughes Design (GHD), an arm of Garrison Hughes Advertising, an employee-owned, award-winning ad agency with clients ranging from start-ups to Fortune 500 companies. Larry brings 20+ years of experience to his role overseeing a team of 15+ designers who focus on creative development for a world-renowned health care provider and insurer based in the region. During Larry’s 11-year tenure with GHD, he and his team have built a portfolio of award-winning projects ranging from print and digital to motion graphics. His creative vision and collaborative style have strengthened the healthcare giant’s brand and consistently refined it to better connect with an increasingly diverse audience. Larry has also worked to bolster the brands of the numerous specialty hospitals and services under the health system’s umbrella. By establishing brand identities and visual systems, he has broadened brand equity in the region and around the globe. In recent years, Larry’s team has doubled in size, broadened its scope, and honed the creative muscle on which stakeholders at every level of the health system have come to rely. He is so proud of the relationships he's built and treasures his colleagues and the agency that has come to feel like home.

I’m cautiously optimistic about the role and impact of graphic design and visual communication in business, culture, and causes. With movements pushing systemic change, color palettes have grown increasingly warm and hopeful. There’s an enthusiasm to design surrounding causes and culture that’s empowering and impactful. AI has been disruptive — fixing hair is easier than ever! I don’t think it’ll make us obsolete just yet thanks to the human artistry and nuance that AI can’t replicate. Paper shortages and high costs have remained tough, but they’ve also made us more creative.

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

Peter Saville, Neville Brody, and David Carson have each had an influence on me.

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agencies, or inhouse departments of the past 60 years? Of today?

Apple (inhouse), Pentagram and House Industries for inhouse agencies.

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

Paul Rand – Westinghouse logo.

Favorite or most influential design project or campaign in any medium for the past 60 years?

I appreciate the way Netflix designs for the shows they produce. Being an ‘80s kid, I really love all of the poster artwork for Stranger Things.

Most influential product, service or technology of the past 60 years?

The Apple computer and all the products and technologies it inspired.

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KIM VANDRILLA

HEAD OF BRAND & CREATIVE, DTC THE CLOROX COMPANY, NEW YORK, NY

During her nearly two decades as an inhouse creative, Kim Vandrilla has led multiple rebranding efforts, creative directed a number of app and website launches, shaped the storytelling for funding rounds at now billiondollar-valued tech companies Dashlane and Slice, and grown several Creative teams from the ground up. Today, as Head of Brand & Creative, DTC at The Clorox Company, Kim leads the team shaping digital consumer experiences across Natural Vitality, Renew Life, Rainbow Light, Neocell, Burt’s Bees, Clorox Cleaning, and Brita.

Kim credits her creatively tridextrous career as a writer, designer, and brand strategist for the kind of Creative Director she’s become. She considers herself — first and foremost — a business leader, believes design to be, at its core, an exercise in communication problem solving, and thinks a creative’s most important job is to translate and answer core consumer needs.

Whether at a fledgling startup or an established, world-class brand, Kim thrives on the creative challenges companies face during times of rein vention and transformation. As a seasoned creative who works both

sides of her brain daily, she’s long recognized the missed opportunities that occur when creativity and strategy are siloed. As a team leader, she’s on a mission to close that gap between creative and strategy — and ensure creatives always get a seat at the business table.

Design has often been the “how” in a business equa tion — a functional vehicle for content. But today design lives in our social and cultural language and consumers have come to expect a heightened visual standard to be built into a brand’s very ethos and integrated into a company’s “why”. We can no longer merely layer design atop a marketing strategy — consumers won’t allow it — and instead a creative vision needs to beat in the very heart of a brand. Creatives are being invited to have a seat at the business table more and more. And, for that, I’m thrilled.

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

The ones that failed (Cough, Gap). I love how a design fail can get the world talking about design and recognizing how it really does permeate our culture. Even though in our day-to-day lives most people only subconsciously absorb design, it matters. It's visceral. And people will tell you when they have strong feelings about it — especially if those feelings are that they hate it.

Most influential design products, services or technology of the past 60 years?

While it may sound counterintuitive, mass accessibility to graphic design tools via apps has had unparalleled influence — whether you believe that’s for the better or worse. Of course, as a growing number of people start to design their own logos, ads, and more, design studios may lose some business, and there may be more “bad design” living out in the world, but the incredible trade off is that design has become at the forefront of our daily communication at a level it's never been before. Design tools are quite literally at every person's fingertips and visual expression has become a part of daily cultural dialogue. As design becomes even more embedded as a native language in our day-to-today culture our jobs begin to carry even more weight, and become even more exciting.

20 GDUSA 2023 | PEOPLE TO WATCH

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SHAYLA HUFANA

OWNER/DESIGNER, CONCEPTSHELL, SEATTLE, WA

Shayla Hufana is a Filipino-American artist, designer and art director with a BFA in Graphic Design and 15+ years of professional experience. She was born and raised in Seattle (Beacon Hill area) and resides in Kent, WA with her wife and son. In 2011, she founded her studio, ConceptShell, to provide clients with art, design and consultation to help amplify their brands and lift the voices of those who make a difference in this world–especially those in the Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) and LGBTQ+ communities. Shayla is passionate about creating original and inclusive designs with intention, curiosity and empathy.

Outside of ConceptShell, Shayla is currently a Sr Art Director and Design Manager at Cognizant on the Global Brand & Creative team. Previously, she worked as Sr Designer and Art Director at Boeing for six years on projects such as airplane liveries, airshows and executive finance presentations. One of the key project initiatives she worked on was the Travel Confidently with Boeing website to support the airline workers and flying public through the COVID-19 pandemic.

Shayla has produced award-winning advertisements, brand identities, environmental/experiential designs, infographics, websites, animations, videos and more for a diverse range of clients in different industries

worldwide. A few clients include City of Seattle, Google, Nordstrom, Whole Foods and WNBA’s Seattle Storm. Her works have been featured in local/online art galleries, design magazines and in Seattle’s PublicDisplay.ART newspaper. To learn more about Shayla, visit concept-shell.com or follow her @shayla.ad on Instagram.

Yes, I believe non-designers are beginning to understand how valuable graphic design and visual communication can be especially when it comes to embracing diversity and accessibility. People like to see themselves in work projects and keep their cultures alive. Recent sociopolitical events have greatly influenced graphic designers around the world like myself to think more deeply. I’ve felt heavily affected with the rise in Asian hate crimes, US school shootings, killing of George Floyd, war in Ukraine and execution of Mahsa Amini. I want to amplify important information to make an impact for positive change through my art and designs.

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years?

Saul Bass. I grew up watching all kinds of movies with my parents and love Saul Bass’s work, especially the art on Anatomy of a Murder and the artwork done as a tribute to him in Catch Me if You Can. Carolyn Davidson. I wanted to be a basketball star when I was a kid. I loved wearing and collecting Nike and Michael Jordan sneakers. When I found out that a woman designed the Nike logo (inspired by Nike, the Greek goddess), I shared this with people when Nike was brought up. It made me feel proud to be a graphic designer. I hope to create and work with brands that become legendary. Of today?

Damon Nakagawa (WA), Marissa LaDuke (WA) and Thomcat23 (PA). These are amazing creatives who I’ve been honored to work with and learn from.

Favorite or most influential design project or campaign in any medium for the past 60 years?

I’m a sucker for ad campaigns that make me tear up like “The Song” Apple Christmas Commercial, “To the New Parents” Etsy Holiday Campaign (UK), Bretman Rock Nike "Be True" Proudly in Motion Campaign and Colin Kaepernick and Nike 'Just Do It.’

22 GDUSA 2023 | PEOPLE TO WATCH

MATT KUBIS

CREATIVE DIRECTOR/HEAD OF DESIGN FORTNIGHT COLLECTIVE, BOULDER, CO

Matt is the Head of Design and Creative Director at Fortnight Collective, a marketing agency focused on helping brands be better, faster. Their model centers around their Brandhack™ process in which they take creative work from concept to creation within two weeks. Matt’s projects with Fortnight range from building visual identity systems, to packaging design, to brand building campaign work for clients like Odell Brewing Co, ONE Protein Bars, Yasso Frozen Greek Yogurt, Health•Ade Kombucha, and Noodles & Company.

During his nearly 20 years of diverse professional experience, Matt has worked at agencies like Element 79 and Crispin Porter + Bogusky on big brand campaigns for Coca-Cola, Gatorade, Under Armour, Microsoft, and Miller Lite. He worked at pop culture brand, Kidrobot — one of the earliest creators of designer art toys in America — where he led the 2D design and marketing team. He’s also worked in the NGO space for Al Gore’s Climate Reality Project, an organization dedicated to addressing the climate crisis. There he harnessed the mighty power of advertising for good by utilizing the same strategies and disciplines used for big

brand marketing to insert the climate conversation into popular culture. Throughout his years of experience, Matt has been passionate about helping guide young creatives, both within his role as Creative Director and as a professor at the University of Colorado, where he taught Intro to Art Direction.

I feel that brand design is going through a bit of a humanist movement right now. Like Art Nouveau shook off the impersonal touch of assembly lines and the industrial revolution, it seems more organic, emotive, authentic, character-driven design is taking shape in response to the last decade of the clean, sleek, perfect aesthetic driven by modern tech.

Bright and buzzy RGB palettes are being replaced with earth tones, functional san serif fonts are being swapped for more expressive and handmade typography, rigid layout grids are being rebelled against, and art-led, hand-made, illustration-based design is on rise.

As AI continues to get smarter and more capable, and templatized design tools are becoming more accessible and easy to use, I’m excited to see how brands will have to evolve to express their true character. And how an artistic human touch in design can help create more diverse and unique perspectives, and more authentic and relatable brand personalities.

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ANNA CRIDER + JONATHAN POSNETT PARTNERS,

ENTRO, NEW YORK, NY

Jonathan and Anna have thrived on the business and creative relationship they formed over 20 years ago when they met at the office of Poulin + Morris. Their careers have been focused in experiential graphic design services, developing comprehensive branding, wayfinding, and placemaking design solutions for a diverse client base both in the US and around the world, extending from the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority’s (SEPTA) Metro, Smithsonian’s National Museum for the American Indian, Changi Airport’s Terminal 5, NYU Langone Health, and Flushing Meadows Corona Park.

Anna and Jonathan are partners at Entro, an interdisciplinary design firm that brings together expertise in fields spanning art and design to neuroscience, with offices in New York, Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver, and Sydney. Since joining Entro in 2019, they have grown the New York office from 5 to 19 staff members. Together Anna and Jonathan have maintained their commitment to draw on their collective experience and focus it to foster the next generation of design professionals, in a collaborative, supportive, engaging and challenging environment.

We are incredibly optimistic! As experiential designers, we thrive on our ability to impact how people experience places and environments. We seek connection and meaning, and now more than ever we need to provide viewpoints through which we can find a sense of belonging.

These past three years have changed our perspectives as communication designers — experience paradigms have shifted and challenged how we make sense of our purpose and the spaces we inhabit. We’re inspired by the increased focus on ensuring spaces are equitable and accessible to all, and how impactful experiential design can be to achieving these goals. Our work communicates directly to people, through messaging, branding, graphics, art and technology, and so the focus on community engagement in all our work is paramount to ensure we remain sensitized and responsive. It's critical to our team that our work remains tangible and immediate and connects with people on a personal level, making them feel safe, welcome and cared for. We put research, open dialogue with community members, and collaboration at the forefront of our design process to ensure spaces are meaningful and relevant to the people they serve.

Favorite or most influential design project or campaign in any medium for the past 60 years?

The most influential design projects opened our eyes to how language and design can alter our perception. They represent an idea that shifts the paradigm and challenges the norm. Take Volkswagen’s 1959 “Think Small” or Apple’s 1997 “Think Different” campaign. They challenged us to rethink how we think — and ultimately pushed us to reconsider the possibilities of design.

24 GDUSA 2023 | PEOPLE TO WATCH

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RQRD: Bachelors degree in Graphic Design, Communication Design, or a related design field plus 3 yrs of exp.

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RACHEL ZOREL FOUNDER/CREATIVE DIRECTOR

7 LAYER STUDIO, SOUTH ORANGE, NJ

Rachel is a creative visionary, empathetic leader and the founder of 7 Layer Studio. Her relentless optimism and fearless drive propelled the studio from a one-woman operation to the multidisciplinary agency that it is today. With nearly two decades of experience under her belt, she is a champion of fearless creativity that is grounded in strategy and excellence. 7 Layer Studio is one of a minority percentage of female-founded agencies, and Rachel uses that unique perspective to push boundaries and lead with heart.

7 Layer Studio specializes in brand strategy and design, with a focus on big picture thinking and tenacious process. The agency partners with ambitious brands of all sizes, from early stage startups wanting to make a big impact to legacy brands looking to evolve. Layering business vision with strategic branding, the creative team builds projects for scale, with thoughtful attention to opportunity and relationships. Every project is fueled by the power of design, the strength of strategy and a desire to be exceptional.

PICTURED ABOVE LEFT TO RIGHT:

Becky Williamson, Deanna Rosa, Rachel Zorel, Jacquelyn Kirby, Caitlin Kachmar

PHOTOGRAPH: LEE SEIDENBERG PHOTOGRAPHY

Design is a catalyst for emotion. Whether provoking action or inspiring the next generation, our responsibility as designers is always to do our best to infuse culture with authenticity and invention. The last several years have given us a chance to take inventory of the aspects within our day to day that give us fulfillment. I’ve loved seeing the growing push of our industry to support and protect the mental health of our creatives, rather than glorifying burnout. As someone who has built an agency while raising a family, I’ve been advocating for that balance in the industry for a long time.

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years? Of today? Paula Scher

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agency(s), or inhouse department(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

Massimo Vignelli

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

I Heart NY by Milton Glaser

Favorite design project or campaign in any medium for the past 60 years? Package, poster, website, ad, publication or motion design, etc.?

The Public Theater by Paula Scher

Most influential design products, services or technology of the past 60 years?

The computer

26 GDUSA 2023 | PEOPLE TO WATCH

STACY HILL DUSTIN PRINGLE KATHLEEN SCOTT ERIN GRANDMAISON JESSICA HILLIS

CREATIVE STRATEGY TEAM

BRUCE POWER, TIVERTON, ONTARIO, CANADA

Situated on the shore of Lake Huron near Tiverton, Ontario, Canada, Bruce Power provides 30 percent of Ontario’s electricity, while keeping the air clean by generating zero carbon emissions. Bruce Power safely delivers clean, reliable nuclear power to families and businesses across the province and cancer-fighting medical isotopes across the globe.

The Creative Strategy team, along with Bruce Power’s Communications staff, manage the strategy and execution of all internal and external communication pieces, including publications, signage and wayfinding, exhibits, websites, social media and more. In 2019, they launched a rebrand of Bruce Power with a new logo, color palette and completely overhauled brand standards — all done internally. The team has been recognized by numerous awards programs including GDUSA In-House Awards, GDUSA Health + Wellness Awards, GDUSA Design Showcase, RGD In-House Awards, HOW In-House awards, Creativity International Design & Advertising Awards, Spark Design Awards and the International Business Awards.

Our team is constantly working on advancing our brand and communication design to reflect how Bruce Power has evolved as a modern, innovative company. As the business grows and changes, we have new areas of focus that require alignment with specific messaging and visuals. Our team has developed a range of design work that include a recruitment campaign with new branding and messaging, updating and modernizing our signage across site, Bruce Power Visitors’ Centre refurbishment with 19 new exhibits including a Cobalt exhibit in conjunction with the Ontario Science Centre design team, medical isotope branding, signage and merchandise, as well as several direct mail, websites and social media pieces.

Over the past few years, we’ve seen a trend of large companies realizing the value of design and investing in their in-house design teams. We’re optimistic this will continue as the benefits of having a strong in-house creative team become more apparent. We have the intimate brand knowledge that an outside agency just can’t have, which helps us get to the best design solution faster and more efficiently.

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agency(s), or inhouse department(s) of the past 60 years? Of today? We believe that in-house design teams are uniquely positioned to create compelling and creative solutions that expand a brand’s experience and platform. These teams provide interesting, thoughtful solutions and content that inspires us: Spotify, Deloitte Canada, Sesame Workshop, Lego and Dropbox.

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MARYSIA WALKER

VICE

PRESIDENT,

WORX, PROSPECT CT

Marysia Walker is a passionate creative who truly cares about her client partners, colleagues, project work, and community — and has designed or directed dozens of national award-winning pieces in print, advertising, direct, brand, and web.

Marysia is approaching two decades with WORX — a nationally-recognized branding, digital, and marketing agency — where she oversees brand messaging, design strategy, and creative for many client partners. Her capabilities go beyond a single industry or marketing channel, having served as creative director and designer for top brands including PEZ, BiC, ESPN, Iron Mountain, Special Olympics, FedEx, and ASSA ABLOY. An unabashed fan of Michael Bolton, Marysia designed three of his album covers.

Marysia grew up in the Connecticut Valley, gravitating towards the arts, athletics, and computer technology. Later in college, as a fine arts major she discovered that a career in graphic design would allow her to blend her creative talents with technology.

Learning the business and strategic side of marketing, Marysia quickly ascended to leadership positions at every stop along her career path. A creative problem solver, she brings left- and right-brain thinking to every engagement, while enjoying mentoring members of the design team.

Social responsibility is important to her, and she is active in the design and local community — serving as a Board member for AIGA CT and Co-Founder of the Emerging Leaders of United Way of Greater Waterbury. When Marysia is not designing, she enjoys waterskiing, fine arts, bingewatching Friends, and relaxing with her husband Rich and kitties at their lakefront home.

I am very optimistic about the impact graphic design will impart in 2023. Graphic design influences our everyday lives in more ways than most realize. The role of a designer has become increasingly important as it is our responsibility to design with empathy, inclusivity, and accessibility in mind for all mediums and experiences.

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

Paula Scher

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agency(s), or inhouse department(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

My amazing team at WORX

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

Unilever

Favorite or most influential design project or campaign in any medium for the past 60 years?

Too many to list, but contrary to my typically rigorous researcher M.O., the only large purchase I’ve made solely based on a print ad was for one of my first cars, the Dodge Neon circa 1998 — they had me at “Hi.”

Most influential design products, services or technology of the past 60 years?

I love any technology that helps bring my creative concepts and design executions to life faster — which Adobe has been advancing year after year.

28 GDUSA 2023 | PEOPLE TO WATCH

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VASHEENA BRISBANE

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR, VISUAL DESIGN + COMMUNICATIONS

FIFTH AVENUE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, NEW YORK, NY

Vasheena Brisbane is the Associate Director of Visual Design and Communications at Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church, one of New York's largest historical religious institutions. Her work can be seen by thousands of people everyday in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. Implementing a bold and contemporary design aesthetic that is not constrained by religious tradition or propriety has contributed to the church's brand and presence on one of the most recognizable streets in the world, Fifth Avenue. Several of her projects have been recognized nationally and showcased in GDUSA. This award winning designer holds a BFA in Electronic Design and Multimedia from The City College of New York. She is a creative problem solver who is passionate about the marriage of form and function. She loves what she does and believes passionately that design can change the world, one type choice at a time.

Vasheena has worked in design for 15+ years with a variety of clients from N'Kenge, a one woman show, to global healthcare brands like Pfizer and Unilever.

I am an eternal optimist when it comes to the impact of visual design in all facets of life. To live in this world is to create. Whether you are creating a path forward, a new life, or a next breath. Design and creativity, at its best, is the practice of empathy. Thinking about what another being will feel, see, touch, want, do. These last few years have taught us that, above all else, we live to create for and with each other. The isolation and subsequent re-introduction to the world has fostered a deeply introspective approach to the way I live my life and how I approach my work.

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

My favorite logo of all time is the FedEx logo. When I discovered the arrow I knew design could change the world.

30 GDUSA 2023 | PEOPLE TO WATCH

JOHN GLASGOW

CO-FOUNDER, VAULT49, NEW YORK NY

With his background as a printmaker and renowned street artist, John co-founded Vault49 in 2002 with business partner Jonathan Kenyon. Leaning into his roots, John instills a crafted process throughout the Vault49 team and leads the creative vision for the agency: to integrate brand strategy with image-making to deliver bold artistic solutions that disrupt everyday experiences and delight consumers.

John is an active voice within the design community for driving greater cultural diversity within the industry. He spearheads a Vault49 initiative giving students from low-income backgrounds the opportunity to work on projects and broaden their networks, and is a partner on a cultural and creative exchange program alongside Question Media Group, Obama Foundation’s My Brother’s Keeper Alliance, Jay Z’s Shawn Carter Foundation, and Ravensbourne University London to provide opportunities for young people from minority backgrounds.

With studios in London and New York, Vault49 unite diverse creative minds to deliver ownable, crafted brand experience and packaging design that cuts through and connects with people. A collective of strategists, designers and artists with a deep understanding of cultures, technologies and trends, Vault49 works with some of the world’s most recognizable brands.

Counting PepsiCo, Diageo and EA Games amongst their clients, the agency’s work has been recognized by the likes of Cannes Lions, DBA Design Effectiveness, D&AD, Design Week Awards, Clio Awards, Dieline Awards, and Pentawards.

Looking forward to 2023, are you optimistic about the role and impact of Graphic Design and Visual Communication in Business? Culture? Causes?

I am very optimistic about the role of design in 2023. Why? 2022 was a year of educating the industry on two important changes that need to happen: Sustainability and Racial Diversity. These topics were discussed everywhere — in talks and panel sessions at every creative and marketing conference, in countless articles across industry media, all firmly promoting the role that design can play in tackling these challenges, and highlighting the positive impact that brands and their agencies can make if we are all brave enough this year to make the changes needed within our companies.

I noticed a shift towards the end of 2022 where some of our key clients had sustainability baked into project briefs from the offset. Previously the subject of sustainability would more likely come up towards the end of a project, if it was even considered at all.

In terms of racial diversity, being one of few black people to co-found and run a design agency, a lot of our clients reached out last year to learn more about how we have built diversity into our business, and also about the work we do with young black and brown creatives.

It’s been great to see these conversations inspire many of them to collaborate with diversity programs, and even create new internal initiatives and implement behavioral changes within their businesses with a goal of making their teams more diverse.

Have the events and disruptions of the past few years changed the role or trajectory of Graphic Design?

I bloody hope so! My concern is that diversity and sustainability end up being trends, especially racial diversity. For me, it feels like there is more noise around sustainability, perhaps as it’s an easier conversation to have. Diversity and inclusion can be an uncomfortable topic to talk about. It’s not easy to put your hands up and say, “The structure of our business is wrong and we need to do better.” There is a lot of work that needs to be done to make real change across both of these heavy topics, and this will take time, patience, and commitment from everyone involved.

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PAUL MCDOWALL

CO-FOUNDER

CLARKMCDOWALL, NEW YORK, NY

Originally from Liverpool, England, Paul has spent over thirty years helping shape, create, design, innovate and transform some of the world’s best brands and organizations. Having won many global design awards over the years, Paul is most proud of co-creating a company where people can thrive and grow, where they feel inspired and supported to do their best work. His continuing passion is partnering with forwardlooking clients who want to make some kind of positive change in wellness, community and environment.

The simple answer is we must be optimistic. As creatives, strategists and agency owners we have a responsibility to challenge and inspire our clients to help them make better choices when it comes to wellness, social ethics and environment especially. We have an incredible opportunity to play a more active role in designing a world that is more sustainable and equitable. In the past two years alone we have seen how ideas and movements can be expressed to propagate change for good. Design, branding and communication have the ability to connect at scale. They are powerful tools that can be leveraged to impact the many, not just the few.

Looking back at the past 60 years, any personal thoughts or beliefs or musing on who or what has had the most impact on shaping graphic design and visual communications. The most influential designer(s) / design firms or creative agencies / favorite logos or brands or projects / pivotal products or services or technology/ developments of any kind?

I always respect the agitators and disruptors, those that force a new way of seeing the world. They push culture and the industry forward. Never derivative and always brave. They have the ability to create visual eloquence out of prosaic chaos, engaging and enduring, leaving their mark on our collective consciousness.

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ADRIENNE MUKEN

CREATIVE DIRECTOR, CLARKMCDOWALL, NEW YORK, NY

Adrienne flexes her strategic eye and creativity to lead the expression team at Clarkmcdowall. A defender of strategic design, she oversees the team to inspire and produce creative that is relevant, dynamic, and smart. She pushes creative boundaries to get to ideas that are distinct. Adrienne’s background includes extensive experience across industries and categories. From small beverage startups, to DTC meal preps (Freshly), to new brand creation (Airly) and hospitality (Snooze), as well as Fortune 500 companies such as General Mills, Smuckers, Mars, Reckitt Benckiser, Starbucks, Pepsi, Nestle Waters, and Nestle Beverage.

As we look towards screens to tell our stories, elicit ideas, or sell our wares, the design experience is going to play a key role. More than ever, the world is looking to visuals & design as a quick form of communication that can break language and land barriers, rally people or provoke. Making visuals, be it through our phones or computers, is now more ubiquitous and more accessible than ever. It will be graphic design's job to make those visuals impactful and meaningful. We'll need better design to cut through all the clutter of homogenous design templates. And we'll value the individual contributions of the human designer as AI becomes another short-hand tool for expression.

Looking back at the past 60 years, any personal thoughts or beliefs or musing on who or what has had the most impact on shaping graphic design and visual communications. The most influential designer(s)/ design firms or creative agencies / favorite logos or brands or projects / pivotal products or services or technology / developments of any kind?

I think Adobe and Pantone have done a great job at making our industry more accessible and understandable to a wider audience. What was once a language for “insiders” is now becoming part of the common vocabulary, and it's opening up the world and new generations to the potential of a career in graphic arts. I find this particularly inspiring for communities that have typically not had exposure to this field as a viable job path.

GDUSA 33

JOSEPH HAN

CREATIVE DIRECTOR, COLLINS, NEW YORK NY

Joseph Han is a creative director at COLLINS in New York. He was previously an associate partner at Pentagram and a design director at Base design, leading a wide range of organizations including Apple, Google, Facebook, Harvard Graduate School of Design, Institute of Design, AIA Center for Architecture, Yale University, The New York Times, Storefront for Art & Architecture, New York Botanical Garden, Verizon, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream, and Buffy. His work has been featured by international organizations including The New York Times, WIRED, Fast Company, Quartz, It’s Nice That, Type Directors Club, Gwangju Design Biennale, Counter Print, and GDUSA. Joseph is an honors graduate of Rhode Island School of Design and has been teaching seniors in the Graphic Design program at the School of Visual Arts.

The western origin of Graphic Design — the invention of movable typography and the printing press in 1436 — revolutionized how knowledge moved, allowing them to leap the walls of the church and the upper classes of Europe and eventually spread across the planet.

These past few years have seen the influence of graphic design expand globally, again. Instantaneously. That horizontal rectangle bracketed by two half circles with a message: “Face Mask Required” went up on every entrance to every public building in the world, in over 4,000 languages, to help save millions of lives from COVID.

This is only the most recent example of how Graphic Design shares key information. Graphic Design is and has been omnipresent:

• It creates the flags we salute

• It signals from the traffic signs that stop us on streets

• It radiates the three consecutive quarter circles that signal we are online

• It looks back at you from this piece of typography you are reading on this screen at this very second. But the ubiquity of Graphic Design has led to the invisibility of Graphic Design. Its impact remains more profound than ever, but the real importance of Graphic Design is now taken for granted.

“Design is hope made visible” is a key axiom here at COLLINS. Hope points to new and better futures. Design builds the bridges to those futures. We aim to design in service of the hope that creates:

• Not just a common flag, but a rainbow flag to advance human rights for all

• The stickers and pins that motivate us to “vote” and then encourage others by wearing them ourselves

• The phone interface design that connects us to the world with a touch

• Three words: “Just Do It” set in Futura bold, all caps. Three words that make all of us feel like athletes.

2023 promises more incredible change in the realms of AI, the Metaverse, self-broadcasting, social media, the global economy and geopolitics. In short, 2023 holds a huge range of possible futures — the best of which require visionaries, builders and stewards to realize.

Graphic designers, at their best, can be all three. If we're up to the task as a profession, the time is right for design to again play a pivotal role in shaping what's next. To do so, we will all need to double down on what we do best: conjuring meaning from ambiguity.

Have the challenges of the past two years changed the way you approach your work?

In some ways it’s been easier to work, less in person interruptions mean more time to get into an actual flow with what you’re doing. Though, I have tried to be more intentional about making time to collaborate with others, as it’s the one thing I miss from the office.

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KARLA PÁMANES

OWNER/CREATIVE DIRECTOR KARLA PÁMANES, LLC, SAN ANTONIO, TX

I am Karla Pámanes and I am an award-winning designer and branding expert based out of San Antonio, Texas. I have designed for brands like BRIT + CO, Discovery, HGTV, Food Network, Facebook (now Meta) and more.

The best part of my job is meeting people who have big ideas that they feel passionately about. I love that I get to use my skills as a designer to help them translate those ideas into a dynamic brand that inspires people to take action. The brand identity design I do for my clients gives them premium positioning in a global marketplace that’s becoming more and more crowded by the day. My process focuses on capturing the distinctive personality of the brands I work with so they can make waves in their industry. After all, the world doesn’t need more boring design!

When I’m not working on brand identities for my clients, I am working with aspiring designers as a mentor. I created a signature design course to share the knowledge I’ve collected from my 15+ years of experience in the corporate, agency, and freelance world. I talk to people all the time who are drawn to the design world but aren’t sure whether they’re ready to pursue it. These conversations inspired me to dedicate more of my time and energy to design mentorship!

I feel very optimistic about the impact of graphic design on business and culture. These days, we can access an overwhelming number of options online in just seconds. Because of this, we can be more discerning in choosing things that look good and align with our values. On top of that, we tend to curate our lives for social media, and this impacts our buying decisions, too. How something looks has become a significant factor when people are choosing whether or not to make a purchase, and I think this trend will continue to grow year after year.

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

Paula Scher, Louise Fili, Milton Glaser, and Saul Bass represent the pinnacle of design in my opinion. Some current designers I’m also inspired by are Jessica Hische, Lauren Hom, Tad Carpenter, Jessica Walsh, Zipen Zhu, and Timothy Goodman.

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agency(s), or inhouse department(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

Pentagram, Landor, and Chermayeff & Geismar & Haviv all instantly come to mind. Some of the more up-andcoming agencies I’ve been following are Young Jerks, &Walsh, The Heads of State, and Lab Partners.

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

I’m a huge fan of the logo design from Chermayeff & Geismar & Haviv, but especially the simpler ones, like the logos they did for National Geographic and Women’s World Banking.

Favorite or most influential design project or campaign in any medium for the past 60 years?

The packaging at Trader Joe’s. Their design style always gets me; both the design elements and the copy. I end up buying so many things based solely on the packaging! I’m also obsessed with everything that comes from Target’s in-house design team.

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DARCEY MCCORMICK

PRESIDENT/PRINCIPAL CREATIVE DIRECTOR

KAY JAMES DESIGN, LLC, APPLETON, WI

From a young age, Darcey McCormick has had an eye for pattern and color and knew that her future resided in the field of art and design. After graduating from Mississippi State University with a BFA in Graphic Design, Darcey began her professional career as a designer at Asen Marketing in Knoxville, TN. It was at Asen that Darcey grew her passion for client communication and ‘listening to hear’ the need or problem to solve. Fast forward to today . . . Darcey is the President and Principal Creative Director at Kay James Design (KJD) in Appleton, WI. KJD creates compelling brand experiences for Fortune 100 consumer packaged goods companies. KJD knows how brand design influences consumer perceptions, drives purchase decisions, and ultimately impacts sales.

Darcey develops and leads a team culture of collaborative, ‘what if’, consumer centric thinking. Knowing the importance of listening to hear, her designers are granted a seat at the table. “We encourage autonomy and unique problem solving, and the best way to generate those ideas is for our designers to have the chance to engage directly with our clients. We are in the business of building relationships.” What Darcey loves about this is that each team member shifts their mindset from executional

deliverables to meeting objectives and problem solving (aka: the bigger picture). To help KJD deliver quality work on time, Darcey and team establish and maintain a global network of diverse and talented artists to plug and play. This allows KJD to withhold strong client relationships, build leadership capabilities, encourage creative problem solving and offer ever changing, fresh approaches to design.

Graphic Design is part of everything that we touch and see. For this reason, it will always have an optimistic and powerful impact. Using design as a platform for change and awareness — the space where consumer centric thinking and communication converge — is what makes me most proud of KJD and our future impact for design. We’ve been able to deliver authentically amidst increased racial tensions across the US, highlight advocates for mental health, and simply educate consumer life enhancing, product benefits. We promise to understand clients business goals to create strategic, future relevant, and actionable design solutions that are ready to deploy..

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

Of the past: I studied Art Director, Cipe Pineles in college and fell in love. She used illustration for communication and reader engagement across various magazine articles. Of today: In my quest to broaden my network and open my mind I met Dominique Mueller, Sr. Director of Inclusive Design & Culture at Target Corporation. She has graciously accepted me into her network and engaged with me in conversations regarding the importance of inclusive design.

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agency(s), or inhouse department(s) of the past 60 years? Of today? My eye is on Target and the plethora of disruptor consumer brands.

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SCOTT PETTS

CO-FOUNDER/CREATIVE DIRECTOR LABYRINTH TRAINING, BROOKLYN, NY

Scott Petts is an award-winning Australian Designer and Creative Director. He is Co-Founder of Labyrinth Training, a company transforming workplace and compliance training through interactive storytelling. Clients include AB InBev, Westinghouse, Twitter, FanDuel & Pandora.

Scott moved to the US in 2007 and has spent his 15-year design career based in New York. He initially joined MTV Networks, where he spent 4 years creating digital products across Spike TV, Comedy Central and TV Land. He then joined HBO to lead the design team, developing rich digital experiences for shows such as Game of Thrones, True Blood, True Detective and Veep. One particular highlight was when the re-imagined Game of Thrones Viewers Guide was awarded an Emmy for Best User Experience and Visual Design. Scott then served as the Digital Creative Director for the iconic Rolling Stone magazine where he helped to build the Digital Design and Video departments from the ground up. The team went on to win multiple awards including a Webby for the Rolling Stone Cover Wall. He then joined the amazing College Board team and worked collaboratively on evolving the overall design and brand system.

Scott has produced work for brands such as UNICEF, Google, Pepsi, UFC, Burger King and Levi’s. He is obsessed with experiential quality and system thinking in design. He is incredibly grateful for the designers he has collaborated with over the years and the relationships he has developed in the industry.

I am optimistic. I’ve seen first-hand the positive impact thoughtful, honest design can have on businesses with our work at Labyrinth Training. The role of Graphic Design will be as vital as it has ever been in my opinion. It really is crucial in today’s multi platform landscape that companies present strong, consistent branding in their products and thoughtful visual communication in their marketing. Quality design builds trust, and trust with your audience in business is everything.

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years?

Massimo Vignelli. I have his amazing interview with Debbie Millman on rotation annually.

Of today?

I am a huge fan of Jessica Hische from her lettering work to her children’s books.

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agencies, or inhouse departments of the past 60 years?

Pentagram Of today?

There are so many…

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

The MTV logo

Favorite or most influential design project or campaign in any medium for the past 60 years?

Spotify Wrapped is my current favorite. The way the team at Spotify designs to the data and makes such an exciting, personal experience is very cool.

Most influential product, service or technology of the past 60 years?

The Apple Macintosh

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CONOR BIRNEY

EXECUTIVE DESIGN DIRECTOR, MADWELL, BROOKLYN, NY

Conor Birney is Executive Design Director at Madwell in Brooklyn. He joined the agency in its infancy, and his — career-wise — and has helped build out the design practice over the last 11 years.

A true believer that everything is interesting, Birney has designed for a range of audiences and organizations including Happy Family Organics, The Glenlivet, Pernod Ricard, men’s grooming brand Harry’s, non-profit New York Road Runners, and Whyte & Mackay, the company that produces spirits brands Jura, Dalmore, John Barr, and Shackleton. Creative direction, UX, branding, product design, illustration, animation, 3D, prototyping, design strategy, design systems, and presentation design are among his specialties.

Birney’s goal is to design holistically across a brand’s identity, all advertising elements, and digital systems to tell a consistent, impactful story that is beautiful to look at. For New York Road Runners, he designed a multi-year program that was intended to drive at-home interest in the popular NYC Marathon, which was not a spectator sport when it came to home viewing. “It Will Move You” was a multi-media effort that delivered on the promise of the marathon for runners, spectators, and supporters

and got at-home viewers participating by texting each other digital stickers and creating digital cheer cards.

What Birney loves most about this industry is that he gets to satisfy his curiosity on a daily basis by diving into different industries and subject matters — no two days are ever the same. “When I say everything is interesting, I mean that there’s a universe of subject matter that the design process allows us to tap into and hopefully make accessible to others.”

With AI at large in our industry, it can be tempting to start second guessing the role of design. Who needs a designer when you can generate a flood of assets with a simple text prompt? The truth is, the more content we proliferate (or: the more content society has to wade through), the more essential graphic design becomes in helping to make sense of it all. Great design has always been more than the tools used to create it. That’s true now more than ever.

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years?

Herb Lubalin

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agencies, or inhouse departments of the past 60 years?

Pentagram

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

Nike

Most influential products, services or technological developments of the past 60 years?

Figma

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SARAH A. COHEN

ASSOCIATE CREATIVE DIRECTOR LOYALKASPAR, NEW YORK, NY

Sarah A. Cohen is Associate Creative Director at loyalkaspar. Sarah is both a design lead and a strategy lead, who specializes in developing sophisticated brand systems and moving brand narratives that help brands and audiences better connect to each other. She works with loyalkaspar’s client roster of media and entertainment brands that include NBCU, Paramount, CNN, Netflix, Starz, and AppleTV+. Sarah has helped design the brand identities for Disney+, AMC, and Oxygen, as well as the brand refresh for FX, and she previously worked at Sibling Rivalry, Trollbäck+Company, and The New York Times.

I believe in human-centered thinking and making. Humanity’s needs have undoubtedly changed over the course of the pandemic and thus the role of graphic design must also change. So let’s change it for the better. We have the opportunity to create more inclusively, more empathetically, more thoughtfully; to ask more questions than make assumptions; and to care to do better than the status quo. But these are just words. All this only matters if those of us in positions of influence and leadership decide it’s important and act.

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years?

Dieter Rams, Art Chantry, Paula Scher

Of today?

I don’t think we know the names of the great art directors of today yet. Most of them probably aren’t even designers yet.

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agencies, or inhouse departments of the past 60 years?

The classics: Braun, Pentagram

Of today?

I recently joined the team at loyalkaspar and am blown away by the level of insight, thought and care that goes into everything they make.

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

Way too many to list.

Favorite or most influential design project or campaign in any medium for the past 60 years?

Allyship & Action

Most influential products, services or technological developments of the past 60 years?

Every individual, group and org fighting for more respect and inclusion within the design community.

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CHARLES THOMAS

CREATIVE DIRECTOR ENDEAVOR BUSINESS MEDIA, TULSA, OK

Charles Thomas is an Indonesian-born, US graphic designer based in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He has worked in the creative industry for more than 20 years with extensive experience in conceptualizing, designing, and crafting the perfect solution for every client.

Charles’ expertise in UX/UI design, illustration, and photography, serves as the foundation to successful promotional campaigns and strategic brand development. His clients range from start-ups and small businesses to non-profit organizations and corporations.

Charles’ philosophy: effective design isn’t just about a “wow” factor, but about connection to the audience and the impact of the work. That philosophy has helped him succeed in the B2B and B2C industries and win an award or two along the way.

Charles serves as the Creative Director of Endeavor Business Media’s inhouse Corporate Creative Services department. In 2022, Endeavor Business Media was ranked in the top 5000 Fastest Growing Private Companies in the U.S. In his role, Charles leads a team of designers and

videographers whose goal is to deliver creative solutions and impactful designs. Through their roles, they are continuously focused on identifying opportunities for growth and improvements, while ensuring they are delivering the highest quality of work.

Very optimistic. From the point of view of Graphic Design and Visual Communication, we are seeing an increase in the need to communicate across various platforms. The proliferation of design-made-easy apps, while convenient, has produced a lot of noise. As graphic designers, it is imperative that our works stand out from the noise. We must be diligent in delivering impactful designs without sacrificing the UX/UI.

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

Disney branding. The mere mention of the word “Disney'' will evoke a sense of nostalgia. It brings us back to our favorite movies and characters from our childhood. Their holistic approach in combining branding, marketing, and user experience not only nurtures the audience connection, but also brings us along to their next reinventions. I really admire the way that Disney creates brand loyalty by crafting their narratives over the scope of many years.

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JENNIFER BERNSTEIN

CO-FOUNDER/CREATIVE DIRECTOR LEVEL GROUP, BROOKLYN, NY

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF GRAPHIC DESIGN RUTGERS UNIVERSITY-NEWARK, NEWARK, NJ

Jennifer Bernstein has been a practicing designer and educator for over twenty years. She is the Co-Founder and Creative Director of Level Group, an award-winning full-service creative agency that specializes in strategic branding and design across media. Since 1997, the products and experiences Level has created have empowered clients to engage new and existing audiences, whether to inform, inspire, or motivate action. The firm chooses to work with clients across a variety of sectors, including Deutsche Bank, The Smithsonian, Green Frontier Capital, PS1/MoMA, the Potamkin Companies, Pratt Institute, NYFA /The New York Foundation of the Arts, MetLife, and Sotheby’s.

Jennifer has also taught extensively at all undergraduate and graduate design education levels, including twelve years at The University of the Arts and four years at Pratt Institute in the Graduate Communications Design MFA. In 2014 she joined the faculty at Rutgers University-Newark.

In addition to the many awards and other recognition Level has received, Jennifer was an invited speaker at the MODE Motion Design Education Summit, and the AIGA/American Institute of Graphic Arts National Design Conference in New Orleans, LA.

Looking forward to 2023, are you optimistic about the role and impact of Graphic Design and Visual Communication in Business? Culture? Causes? Why do you feel that way?

Absolutely! In our less physically “together” world, businesses, even more, require ways to communicate with audiences impactfully. Graphic Design will always reflect cultural shifts and paradigms; we just need to look, acknowledge, and redress. Our firm’s commitment to addressing the urgency of climate change galvanizes our collaborations with clients working toward the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

Have the events and disruptions of the past few years changed the role or trajectory of Graphic Design?

Yes. Many of us are striving for more inclusive Graphic Design — through efforts to expand design history, revealing stories that have been overlooked, or creating platforms that amplify visibility and representation. The industry has adapted to the need to be remote and recognized its potential to provide greater access.

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LIZ DANZICO

VP OF DESIGN, WEB EXPERIENCES COLLECTIVE IN WEBTEXT MICROSOFT, NEW YORK NY

Liz Danzico (she/her) is part designer, part educator, and full-time dog owner, at the intersection of product, design, innovation, and education. At Microsoft, she leads teams across the US, Canada, Spain, China, and India, working with people who choose a company that has a mission to empower every person and organization on the planet to achieve more. Prior to Microsoft, she was SVP of Digital and VP of Design for NPR (National Public Radio) in Washington DC, and is Founding Chair of MFA Interaction Design at SVA (School of Visual Arts) in New York City. She serves on advisory boards/efforts that give voice to communities in need, including the Adobe Design Circle. She thrives on stories and words, and prides herself on intentional organization.

The most significant shift over the past several years has been access. Designers and makers have access to more tools, more choices, more people, more inspiration, more stories of success and failure, more. Consumers too have access to good and bad design, which makes them more discerning, more and sometimes less educated, more demanding.

This shift has raised the profile of design in business, demonstrating its impact on global and local scales, growth and audience reach, and bottom lines. Design is operating at the executive level of small and large businesses globally as a result — Designer Founders, CEOs, Chief Design Officers and more.

But what has not changed enough is people and communities of people whose brilliance hasn’t been included because of marginalized systems of oppression. We have a long way to go to leverage our collective experiences. Yet, I am positive and hopeful because of the bright future where design can be a supportive, healing, inclusive and imaginative place that will advance us forward.

Given recent upheavals, as well as those yet to come, the industry has an opportunity and a responsibility to listen, shape, and act. That last verb is not optional, by the way. Designers have the particular benefit of being in the business of shaping the future. And where we stand in the history of the future, right now, is a tremendous opportunity for design.

As we look ahead, we happen to be on the precipice of two important moments: For lack of a better term, we’re turning a page on a new chapter of generative AI and Web3 (or 5, depending on how you count) and with it come a host of new opportunities for designers and the industry. We’re also grappling with what changes things like the AI, cryptocurrency, the metaverse, and Web 3 will bring. While some of those things are just terms applied to broader movements just underway, others are substantive foundations here to stay. And that is the nature of our work as designers — to consider how to design our collective future so it’s something we want to be a part of.

Perhaps more importantly, people are examining their very actions as designers and as humans. Designers are asking and acting on how they can create worlds that are more accessible, sustainable, and inclusive. In the coming years, rather than celebrating things we shall be celebrating people and positive behaviors.

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KATE WADIA

FOUNDER/CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER MRS&MR, NEW YORK NY

Kate loves her job. She has spent the better part of three decades creating and crafting design forward work for companies that believe in the transformative power of design. Her work is informed by her belief in the alchemy of curiosity, creativity and close collaboration.

Kate is of the conviction that design thinking transcends all media, experiences and touchpoints, so she has spent her career applying her design skills across multiple platforms: branding, advertising, physical experiences, fashion design, product development, packaging, interior design and production. Consistently bringing a high level of craft, humanity and passion to her work.

Having worked in Melbourne, London and New York, in 2016 Kate co-founded Mrs&Mr, a New York based independent agency. In an industry where less than 3% of Creative Directors are women, Kate founded Mrs&Mr to right the ratio, and on the basis that good creative is most impactful when married — literally‚ to brilliant strategic thinking. The brilliant strategic thinking coming from her husband and business partner, Daniel Wadia.

Kate hails from Melbourne, her unbridled optimism and sunny disposition a likely result of growing up down under.

Design makes people feel. It connects people. Design asks questions and is relentlessly curious. Design is about fearless progress, unbridled optimism and inspired innovation. Design has the power to elicit emotions, to make people feel intensely, and ultimately, to move culture. Design has immeasurable influence over our lives, business and society. How exciting is that? This makes me feel hopeful and eternally optimistic about a design centric future.

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agencies, or inhouse departments of the past 60 years?

Pushpin Studios. The way they went against the grain, by rejecting the rigidity and modernism of grid based design is inspiring. They developed their own unique and distinctly eclectic design vocabulary of whimsy, ornament, color and irony. They were rule breakers.

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

The FedEx logo, designed in 1994. Timeless. Simple. Clever. The use of negative space is genius. I love a logo that surprises and delights.

Favorite or most influential design project or campaign in any medium for the past 60 years? (package, poster, website, advertisement, etc.)

Historic VW campaigns. These ads were the ultimate combination of wit and simplicity. The typographic design, use of extreme scale, and negative space, combined with razor sharp headlines lead to advertising with perfect synergy between messaging and art direction.

Most influential products, services or technological developments of the past 60 years?

The internet has been the most influential and transformative technology of the past 60-years.

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ADAM GOLD + JERRY NIEVES

FOUNDERS/CREATIVE PRINCIPALS GOLDENSNOW, FORT LAUDERDALE, FL

Founded by New Jersey natives Adam (Gold) and Jerry (Snow), GoldenSnow is a marketing and branding house based in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Adam, a classically trained dancer with a BFA from Marymount Manhattan College, leverages his rigorous arts training to deliver stories and experiences that galvanize and strike a chord. Jerry, a United States Navy veteran with an MA in Communications from St. Bonaventure University, brings discipline and a creative zest when crafting category-defining strategies that drive growth.

GoldenSnow's extensive menu of services encompasses all aspects of the brand and campaign development process, from bulletproof strategies to head-turning, flawless executions. “Northern intensity, Southern affability.” This is the mantra that inspires its creative approach, which combines laser-focus with white glove service.

Jerry: I am very optimistic about graphic design's role in business as we move into the future. The past few years have created a unique opportunity where there must be more to the story than beautiful visuals. Consumers want to be able to connect to the content they are consuming, so the story behind the visuals is just as important as the visuals themselves. We work diligently to build beyond the visual concept by weaving narrative into the designs.

Adam: My guiding principles during design, creation, and launch are experience, journey, and connection. Our campaigns and content should feel like a conversation with a trusted friend. Yes, we still need to be informative and ultimately make a call to action, but the messaging and way we frame it need to feel personalized, organic and advance the user forward.

In this fast-paced, digital world, we have just a moment to engage consumers with share-worthy, bite-sized content. Graphic design is the medium that enables us to build the worlds and creative ideas that shape these powerful connections. I am most excited about the newfound willingness of brands to be playful and experiment with design in search of impactful content.

Favorite or most influential design project or campaign in any medium for the past 60 years?

Jerry: I’ve always marveled at how intricately the Apple product packaging is designed. The slow open of the box builds anticipation and excitement for a new iPhone or MacBook. Genius. Pun intended!

Most influential design products, services or technology of the past 60 years?

Jerry: I mean, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do without Adobe Creative Cloud!

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TAJA DOCKENDORF

FOUNDER/CREATIVE DIRECTOR PULP+WIRE, PORTLAND ME

Taja Dockendorf is the founder and creative director of Pulp+Wire, an award-winning consumer packaging, branding, and digital agency. With an affinity for design, innovation, and strategic problem solving, Taja has led her team to produce brands, packaging, and web and digital solutions that are both visually compelling and rooted in functionality and effectiveness. Under her guidance, Pulp+Wire has won numerous awards for their innovation, brand development, and packaging design, while Taja herself has been recognized as a leader in the industry for her creative and strategic brand building excellence. With a passion for helping businesses of all sizes succeed, Taja empowers her clients to blaze their own trails from the revitalized brand foundations she helps them build. She is also known for her hands-on leadership and ability to foster a collaborative, driven team culture, which has played a significant role in the company's success.

In addition to leading Pulp+Wire, Taja is the host of the Brand Alchemist Podcast, a weekly podcast that highlights brand owners and their journeys in the CPG space, and a writer on leadership and culture for influential business publications such as Forbes, Entrepreneur and Insider. She is also an investor in emerging brands and technologies.

I am optimistic: I see a few areas of growth, some of which I am particularly energized about. While there are fears of a looming recession and a downward turn of venture capital investing in emerging brands, there is also a new air of community and opportunity. I see brands and designers collaborating more, sharing insights, and generating paths forward together instead of simply competing with each other. I’m excited to see the further evolution of better-for-you brands, along with packaging and creative design that can drive and underscore their deeper values. The continued push toward sustainable design, education, and packaging is where we should all be focusing. I’m also incredibly excited about what we are creating at Pulp+Wire: the brands we are building, the impact we are making, and the culture we are forging.

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

There’s not one specific person I’d like to call out, since my admiration lies with a truly wide collection of visionaries who’ve shaped my creative viewpoint. This includes those I see as impactful leaders in design along with the hard working, highly creative unsung heroes and geniuses that live inside the walls of creative agencies. Honestly, the designers I get to work and collaborate with daily are the ones that I find the most influential and who have shaped my creative outlook.

Most influential product, service or technology of the past 60 years?

The most influential (and exciting) are those aligned with a greater sustainability mission to create brands that are better for you and better for the world. The products of the last 60 years have brought us to a turning point, and now the next 60 are going to be about how we consistently show up and build better going forward.

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JOHN DAVIS

CREATIVE DIRECTOR, CYBER GRAPHICS, MEMPHIS, TN

In 1989 John acquired his Bachelor’s degree in Commercial Graphics from Southern Illinois University. Starting out, as an Art Director in the advertising world, he saw that advertising expenditures were dependent on the economy. In 1992 John accepted the In-House Industrial Designer position at True Temper Sports. He learned everything about manufacturing and every type of printing process. Yearning for diversity in subject matter, in ‘98 John became Creative Director at Cyber Graphics. Cyber is owned by the Bryce Corporation which has 100 years experience in packaging. In 1994 their internal plate making department grew to the point that it could become a business all its own. Hence the birth of Cyber Graphics. Cyber offers everything from Brand Creation, Package Design, Photography, Prototyping, 3D visualization to Flexo Pre-Press & Flexo Plate manufacturing.

John’s creative method has a very specific approach, specifically developed to print flawlessly with flexographic printing. What does that mean? If you know flexo, you know that DOT GAIN is a design killer. A 1% halftone dot printed flexo gains to 20% resulting in a flatter, duller process image when printed. Cyber’s method of Flexo Press “fingerprinting” and proofing processes ensure that our digital proofs mimics the press’ dot gain.

To battle dot gain, John lights product photography using mostly hard lights, accentuating highlight detail making it POP on a Flexographic press without losing critical mid-tone detail. Our vector graphic creation also accounts for dot gain to avoid hard edges. Not an easy task. Cyber’s “Graphics” ensure our clients get what they want, on budget, and most importantly with accurate color reproduction.

Hopefully Optimistic: Covid did a number on the workforce and our supply chain. Costs of raw food, packaging and production are at record highs with longer lead times.

Visual Communication: Graphic Design moving forward will need to be simplified and boiled down to only necessary elements on the package. Why? Since Covid, we have customers who went from 15 SKUs or flavors down to 3 on the shelf. Moving forward, you have to make a lot of impact with simple, easy to read graphics. Keep it simple.

Culture/ Causes: Today people say I want high quality, fast, and cheap. Truth is, you only get to choose 2 of those items. Most of our common paper is manufactured outside the US that is now in short supply. If you want it fast, you have to be willing to pay for a premium US paper, or wait for the cheap stuff to arrive. In flexographic films, the same is true. We hope the supply chain will be at full capacity soon. The hard truth is we may not recover for another year.

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

Primo Angeli – Great typographer and he attended the same University as me – SIU - Go Salukis!

Saul Bass – Basic graphic design at its most simple expression – Less can be MORE!

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

FEDEX. Based in Memphis, Simple and basic, and I love the Arrow in the logo that most people overlook.

Favorite or most influential design project or campaign in any medium for the past 60 years?

“Where’s the beef? – Truth in advertising!

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GARY WONG

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

GARY WONG DESIGNS, EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ

Gary Wong is a graphic designer with over three decades in the industry. In 2008, Gary established a sole proprietorship, Gary Wong Designs, where he has been a trusted design partner of renowned firms such as DraftKings, Ebiquity, Edelman, Johnson & Johnson, Razorfish, Spotify and VIZIO.

Gary believes a key philosophy to having a successful design career is to always seek new things to learn, areas to explore, and fresh sources of inspiration. He keeps up to date with societal trends, shifts in consumer behavior, and emerging technologies. He looks for opportunities to collaborate with partners whose strengths complement his own.

Throughout the span of his career, Gary has won many awards from GDUSA, the Art Directors Club of NJ (ADCNJ), and the Jersey Shore Public Relations and Advertising Association (JSPRAA). He has served on the board of JSPRAA and is currently a member of ADCNJ.

I am very optimistic. Successful businesses have realized the powerful influence of effective visual communication. Early in my career I experienced “starving artist” attitudes toward graphic design — that it was neither a well-paying nor well-respected “professional” career. Today, the general population is becoming rapidly aware of the impact of good design. This is apparent in the success of low-cost design tools like Canva. While some of my clients have taken smaller design projects in-house using these tools, most still request my services to take on more complex projects. This economy presents an ideal opportunity to work out cost-effective communication solutions with your clients. And good design is only half the equation for effective communication; your clients may need to revisit their messaging to reflect the changing needs of their own customer base. Reach out to your marketing peers. You might find opportunities utilizing your combined skillset.

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art director(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

Past: Paul Rand for his playful yet efficient design aesthetic. Today: Paula Scher for her notable branding and identity projects at Pentagram.

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agencies, or in house departments of the past 60 years? Of today?

Past/Today: Pentagram

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

The Nike swoosh symbol

Favorite or most influential design project or campaign in any medium for the past 60 years?

Apple’s “Think Different” campaign

Most influential product, service, or technology of the past 60 years?

The internet

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ROWDY DOMSTEAD

OWNER/FOUNDER ROWDY DOMSTEAD DESIGN, NASHVILLE TN

Born in Dallas, TX, I moved to Nashville in 2014 to attend Belmont University. I graduated with a degree in Music Business with an emphasis in Pre-Law, so I’m not using any of the skills I learned at school. I currently own and operate my own company specializing in design, project management, and branding not only for musical artists but also for businesses outside the music industry. Before transitioning to full-time freelance work, I worked as an Art Director/designer/videographer/animator/photographer at a small record label for 5 years. In addition to my artistic endeavors, I’ve played music all my life. I played guitar in a metal band in high school and took up bass and drums when I moved to Nashville.

As far as my company is concerned, I pride myself on being prompt, professional, prepared, and kind. Whether it's a brand overhaul for a large company, promotional assets for a local chamber of commerce, or single art for an unsigned artist, everyone I work with is met by my clean, accessible esthetic and leaves with both the knowledge that they were treated as an equal and a product we can both be proud of. I wear many hats, I always have, but no matter the deliverable, it's important to me that my personality and character be the constant themes.

I read something recently that discussed the role of major brands in social media, and the fact that the public now seeks insight more from individuals with large followings or expertise in certain areas, as opposed to large companies or other entities. To me, this feels like the cornerstone of a successful approach to graphic design moving into this new year: If individuals are taking the place of large brands, those people now need the support, infrastructure, and visual appeal of a brand to legitimize themselves online. Conversely, in order to regain public opinion and appear more accessible, large brands need to appear more laid back and personal. The point is: everyone needs a rebrand, and that's why I think the value of graphic design grows now more than ever. A gigantic shift in consumer attitude is leaving everyone in need of new photos, new assets, new branding guidelines, new art, new websites, etc. So yes, I'm very optimistic about the role of graphic design in business because, as trends change, so too must anyone who hopes to keep up.

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

As far as influential graphic designers, this is a bit of a weird one, but about a year ago I discovered Barnard Co. on TikTok. This man is an absolute genius when it comes to logo design. I'm truly speechless on some of his work and cannot say enough about how his social media presence has helped me develop my business in the last year.

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agency(s), or inhouse department(s) of the past 60 years? Of today? Bauhaus is probably my most referenced firm, I know that's an easy answer, but Adobe released a pack of Bauhaus-inspired fonts a few years ago and I literally used one on a project yesterday.

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ELISE ROY

PRINCIPAL ARCHITECT, USER EXPERIENCE SALESFORCE, SAN FRANCISCO CA

Elise Roy, MS, JD, is a Principal Architect for User Experience at Salesforce where she leads teams in implementing inclusive user experiences. Deaf from the age of 10, Elise implemented design thinking from early on in life, needing to adapt her environment and its tools to serve her extraordinary abilities.

Elise has close to 20 years of experience working with the disability community with a diverse career path. Her professional accomplishments include collaborating with Google on Live Caption, running her own consulting business in inclusive design serving numerous Fortune 500 Clients, drafting policy for the United Nations Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities (CRPD), laughing as a creative for the 2008 election campaign ads, and getting her hands dirty as an architectural salvage fabricator. As an internationally recognized thought leader, Elise has given talks all over the world including at Microsoft, Amazon, the United Nations, NASA, and the Smithsonian’s Cooper Hewitt Design Museum. Her TEDx talk, “When We Design for Disability, We All Benefit,” has over 1.4 million views.

Elise earned her BA in Psychology from Brown University, graduating with honors. She received her JD from Northeastern School of Law and a Masters of Social Design from Maryland Institute College of Art. She has an honorary Ph.D from Thomas Jefferson University and was recognized in 2022 as a Global 100 Inspirational Leader. She sits on the boards of AIGA and the World Institute of Disability.

The beauty of design is its ability to communicate. This means in each design we have an opportunity to create impact and change. My hope is that the events of the past few years have spurred more people to become more empathetic to difference, more invested in understanding our fellow humans, and less prone to jumping automatically to conclusions. I’m already seeing some change in the designs out there and hopeful we’ll see this increased empathy reflected in more and more designs of the future.

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agency(s), or inhouse department(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

I’m huge fan of Patricia Moore’s work and OXO. Moore was ahead of her time, in that she not only spoke with and observed but also dressed up and limited her own functions to truly understand the experience of aging.

OXO was brilliant in that it realized that smart design is inclusive design — it all starts by designing for the edges.

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SAMANTHA TABLERIOU

OWNER, SAMANTHA TABLERIOU DESIGN, CHARLESTON IL

Samantha Tableriou is an award-winning graphic designer based in central Illinois. Samantha is versed in environmental graphic design, signage planning, creative direction, project management, and branding. Having begun her career in the museum design field with Taylor Studios, Inc., she now operates independently as Samantha Tableriou Design, creating graphics for exhibitions and experiences all over the world. In addition to creating immersive environments, Samantha teaches graphic design and typography at Eastern Illinois University within the Art + Design Department, where she equips future generations of designers with the essential skills they need to succeed in the respective field.

In a world of digital abundance, Sam is passionate about working with multidisciplinary teams to create tactile, environmental, in-person experiences in which families, friends, individuals, and colleagues can learn, be moved, connect, and immerse in astonishing, unforgettable stories.

Her work can be seen across the country in museums, nature and visitor centers, public institutions, attractions, and more. Notable recent projects include Crayola IDEAworks: the Creativity Exhibition, Victoria the T.Rex, and National Geographic’s Beyond King Tut: the Immersive Experience.

Yes! I am optimistic about environmental and experiential graphic design in 2023. For many of us, the past two and a half years saw everything from employment to education confined to virtual environments (que zoom backgrounds, digital voice changers, e-happy hours, malfunctioning mute buttons, and untimely cat lawyers). Now, the world is back on. People are out. And physical environments, exhibitions, and immersive experiences that encourage communities to gather and discover collectively are poised to take off like never before. I foresee the seamless integration of digital and print media spawning ever more in-depth and personalized experiences that extend beyond the physical parameters that these attractions present.

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agency(s), or inhouse department(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?)

To answer this question subjectively within the context of the exhibition design realm: the most influential design firm of today is a tie, in my opinion, between Ralph Applebaum Associates (RAA) and Gallagher & Associates (G&A). Both are pioneers in establishing and raising the bar for evocative, effective, and memorable educational and inspirational experiences worldwide. Hats off to both firms.

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DARCY BRIKS

FOUNDER/CREATIVE DIRECTOR SECOND LANGUAGE DESIGN, NEW YORK/WESTCHESTER NY

After gaining nine years of experience in graphic design and marketing, Darcy launched Second Language Design in 2013 bringing together a talented group of freelance creatives to serve clients interested in top level work with less red tape. With over 18 years of design experience, Darcy oversees all creative projects. Previously, as Creative Director at Rubenstein PR, one of the nation’s foremost PR firms, she launched and led the creative department, managing in-house and client design projects from corporate identity systems to websites. Darcy has developed corporate identities and national campaigns for some of the most distinguished brands, including Target, MTV, Live Nation, Costco, Unilever, Everyday Health, and AT&T. She is the recipient of two American Graphic Design Awards, an American Inhouse Design Award, and a Package Design Award from GDUSA Magazine.

Second Language Design is a full service creative firm offering design and marketing services to independent and global companies. Over the past two decades our team has worked on national print and web projects, as well as corporate identities and creative for brands like Vinco, Crain

Communications, Balboa Bay Resorts, Breathe 4ALS, Hinge Bio, Connection Therapy, and CocaCola. We love coming up with inspired ideas that strategically promote and advance companies. We also realize the importance of sticking to a timeline. We are comprised of a team of experts who have a combined total of over 200 years of agency experience. Our founder has brought together New York’s top creatives to collaborate with businesses on an as-needed basis.

There are more applications for disseminating your designs now than ever before. There are so many useful social media platforms for brands, and what better way to share how your services can benefit people than by showing them? I also think more people have taken design into their own hands over the past few years. Many have started new businesses born from the pandemic, and I think it’s a lucky time for them to have so many design resources at their fingertips (Canva, Pinterest, Figma, etc.) even if it’s just helping them create the first phase of their brand launch. Designers and creative directors will be here to help iron things out when they’re ready for a more polished phase two. Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agencies, or inhouse departments of the past 60 years? Of today? Pentagram now and always.

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

I really enjoyed the Russ & Daughters rebrand as a whole. And I especially liked instances where they referenced the original kerning and layouts from 60+ years ago, closer to when they were founded. All aspects of the rebrand tied together so nicely. It was very impressive to me. This may be a very New York answer.

Most influential product, service or technology of the past 60 years?

How about Adobe Creative Cloud? Although Figma is giving them a run for their money now.

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LOUISE SANDHAUS

CO-DIRECTOR/FOUNDER

THE PEOPLE’S GRAPHIC DESIGN ARCHIVE, LOS ANGELES CA

Louise Sandhaus is a graphic designer and faculty member at California Institute of the Arts (CalArts). Her design office, LSD, working with partners Tim Durfee and Iris Anna Regn, was known for its ground-breaking approach to art museum exhibition design, including shows for the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, UCLA Hammer Museum, Center for Photography in New York, and others. She is the founder and co-director of The People’s Graphic Design Archive, a crowd-sourced virtual archive that aims to expand, diversify, and preserve graphic design history. Her book on the history of California graphic design, Earthquakes, Mudslides, Fires and Riots: California and Graphic Design 1936-1986, was published in 2014 by Metropolis Books and Thames & Hudson. It received laudatory attention from The New York Times, The Guardian (London), and The Los Angeles Review of Books, among many others. In 2015, the book received the Palm D’argent from The International Art Book and Film Festival (FILAF). In 2019, A Colorful Life: Gere Kavanaugh, Designer, co-written and designed with Kat Catmur, was published by Princeton Architectural Press and was the subject of a full-page L.A. Times article. She is a 2022 AIGA medalist.

We are in a moment of disruption that, hopefully, will profoundly impact design and culture. Designers globally have been taught principles of design and visual language originating from European Modernism. But in the last few years, the multitude of other visual languages from communities and cultures that have been overlooked have become visible. This recognition is changing what design looks like, who makes design, and who design is for. This is also part of another significant change — crowdsourcing — with everyone invited to have a voice and to participate.

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RONI LAGIN

SENIOR DESIGN MANAGER, EQUINIX, REDWOOD CITY CA

Roni Lagin is a multidisciplinary designer, artist, and creative director with a knack for visual storytelling. With over 20 years of experience in the design industry, Roni helps brands reach their full potential through printed collateral, branding and identity, campaigns, video production, and web design. He sees design as a partnership, immersing himself in a client or stakeholder’s culture to propel them forward through visually creative and thoughtful solutions. A graduate of Drexel University, Roni founded Roni Lagin & Co. in 2004, a “friendly neighborhood design studio,” working with organizations, companies and people who are striving to make the world better. Most recently, in 2023 he joined Equinix, the world’s digital infrastructure company, as Senior Design Manager, Brand & Creative Services.

Looking forward to 2023, are you optimistic about the role and impact of Graphic Design and Visual Communication in Business? Culture? Causes? Why do you feel that way?

At heart, I’m a realist. But I am optimistic about the power and influence of a crafted and deliberate design approach. Specifically, in how it can impact the way an organization or company is perceived, all the way down to the minutiae of our everyday lives. As designers, we have a critical role to play in connecting the end user or consumer with an effective message, service, product, or the

brand itself. Good design is often invisible, or at least it should be. What makes it successful is that you don’t actually focus on the design — you can just easily understand the message, get the feeling, or find what you were looking for. That’s what excites me and inspires me as a designer. Finding different ways to push boundaries when creating a design that solves a complex problem, but also arriving at something that just makes sense and has a clarity of purpose.

Have the events and disruptions of the past few years changed the role or trajectory of Graphic Design?

The last few years have shifted the way people receive and consume information, but the medium is secondary. There is, has always been, and always will be a pervasive need for good design. What I care most about is elevating a brand, while being authentic to its origin. So, I’m always looking for different ways to solve design problems that align with the client’s identity — no matter who they are. With the constant introduction of new tools and trends, it can be harder to be original and stand the test of time. For that reason, I strive to strike a balance between contemporary aesthetic and minimalism, so that the design feels as on-trend as it is timeless.

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

Paul Rand, for his approach to a single logo and rationale when designing identity. Paula Scher, for her pushing typography to the limits and as the image itself. Milton Glaser, for bringing an artful approach to design.

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agencies, or inhouse departments of the past 60 years? Of today? Pentagram, for bringing together widely talented creatives across the globe aligning towards a common creative goal. Landor, for their ingenious solutions with identity and campaigns. Chermayeff & Geismar, for creating design that endures.

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

Burger King by Jones Knowles Ritchie

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EBONY SSALI

BRAND/CREATIVE DIRECTOR SSALI MEDIA, MILWAUKEE WI

Ebony Ssali, MBA is Brand & Creative Director of Ssali Media, a brand consultancy headquartered in Wisconsin. She is a recognized leader in place branding and multicultural marketing campaigns. As founder, she directs print, broadcast, digital, and social media. For nearly 20 years, Ssali has been known for bolstering organizations with brandmarks and creative assets spotlighting Black and Latin audiences.

Ebony Ssali has garnered awards for work such as the City of Milwaukee's Bronzeville Week, Wisconsin Inno's 50 on Fire for work with high valuation startups, and been featured in several GDUSA publications. Ssali is a national guest lecturer on branding, diversity in communications, and innovation as brand strategy.

The last few years have triggered The Great Reset, pushing designers to reimagine ‘what could be…if.’ I’m looking forward to increased engagement and cultural competency within the profession. Design is accelerating towards a global perspective. It's almost as if we’re finally understanding that our design voices echo in our communities and around the globe. Trends prevalent in Mumbai can affect the culture of Milwaukee.

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

I can’t pare it to a single most influential designer, but without Massimo Vignelli, Milton Glaser, and Paul Rand, American design would look much different. The impact of publishing and fashion icon, Eunice Johnson, has been monumental for decades.

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

Nike. The legendary logo is striking and unforgettable. And to imagine it was created on a ‘shoestring’ budget. Pun fully intended.

Favorite or most influential design project or campaign in any medium for the past 60 years? Package, poster, website, ad, publication or motion design, etc.

The ‘smashable’ Coca-Cola. Before we defined branding systems, Coca-Cola nailed it. The iconic bottle continues to be exalted in package design. Everyone calls out the “Buy the World a Coke” campaign, but in the early 90s Coke brilliantly connected to African American creators. The notable “Always, Coca-Cola” campaign launched many artists, including Tyrese, to the big stage.

Most influential design products, services or technology of the past 60 years?

The iPhone. Powerful computing devices in people's pockets and personalized technology has been a boon for brands, creativity and for life.

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SONAL GADRE-SHINTRE

GRAPHIC DESIGNER/FOUNDER KALAKATTA DESIGN STUDIO, LLC, BRIDGEWATER, NJ

Sonal Gadre-Shintre, is an award-winning graphic designer and founder of Kalakatta Design Studio. Kalakatta has been serving a wide range of clients in real estate, luxury perfumes, hospitality and the technology industry. As a visual story-teller; she helps brands achieve their goals with impactful creative solutions delivered in her thought-driven minimalist design style. Her work encompasses brand identity, websites, print and digital designs, packaging, and event graphics. She is skilled at conjuring striking typography that is notably eye-catching. Sonal loves to travel, experience local cultures and indulge in photography. Nature is her biggest inspiration. She is plugged into the latest design trends and always catches the pulse of the client to convey a meaningful story through her on-point creativity.

Before starting her own venture, Sonal worked for 15 years for agencies and design studios in India and the USA on projects for a wide range of global clients in real estate, FMCG, pharma, fashion, entertainment and non-profit industry including Johnson & Johnson, Cushman & Wakefield, Unilever, P&G, PepsiCo, Grazia, Aditya Birla Group, and Artists for Peace and Justice. She has also created graphics for grand events at Pre-Oscar, Toronto Film Festival, South Asian Excellence and IIFA - Indian International

Film Academy. Sonal has won various awards from GDUSA - American Graphic Design Awards and IDA - International Design Awards.

Visual communication is universal and timeless. Often great brand campaigns, logos and designs become synonymous with culture. It is a designer's job to effectively harness the innate benefits of visual communication to their best advantage and leave a mark on the success of a brand as well as the local culture.

Post-pandemic, remote work culture has opened up a whole new world of opportunities across the globe. I am curious to see how the technology industry and creative industry evolve together in the coming years, taking the contemporary design movement to the next level. Digital design has become a natural extension to graphic design to take brands forward and increase reach. Both play a vital and indispensable part of business.

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

Paula Scher, Milton Glaser, Michael Bierut, Louise Fili.

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agency(s), or inhouse department(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

Wolff Olins, Pentagram, Ogilvy, Ideo

Favorite or most influential design project or campaign in any medium for the past 60 years?

Public Theatre | Posters and environmental design | NYC, USA. Amul, Taste of India | Outdoor Hoarding Campaigns | India.

Most influential design products, services or technology of the past 60 years?

• Printing technology and typography has evolved to a different level in the past 60 years with advancement in technology and resources.

• Advancement in cameras from manual SLR to digital SLR is amazing to see how technology has come up with user friendly features making photography tools accessible for everyone.

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SAM HOULE

ASSOCIATE CREATIVE DIRECTOR SIEGEL+GALE, NEW YORK NY

Sam Houle (They/Them) is a naturally curious, conceptual leader and an avid learner who can easily have a conversation with just about anyone. With the ability to shape the larger picture and a sharp eye for detail, they are formidable at navigating to design solutions. Sam’s enthusiasm for working with people and bringing clients along throughout the process continues to be an understated artistry of theirs. They are adept at verbalizing the conceptual thinking that goes into creating work as well as walking through the intricacies of visual design.

With an economy-of-design mindset, simplicity reigns supreme. Sam creates a strong design that harnesses humanity and recognizes when it needs to be accessible or else invisible. They credit their early-career experience in the non-profit sector for their ability to create empathetic solutions that center the human experience.

As a non-binary creative leader, Sam is very outspoken about diversity, equity, and inclusion and continues to advocate for authentic, lasting implementation of these ideas in their workplace.

After working with OneSight, Landor & Fitch, and McGarrah Jessee, Sam now works at Siegel+Gale, the global brand-led experience firm that was founded with a clear point of view: simple is smart. As an Associate Creative Director, Sam imbues the power of simplicity with all their world-class clients.

Within the past few years, we’ve seen a much-needed influx of diverse communities creating and contributing to the graphic design industry. I’m optimistic that the creative leaders and contributors of upcoming generations will more closely reflect the world we live in. As these creators gain visibility and opportunities and the industry continues to diversify, I’m very excited to witness even more people finding themselves and their careers within creative fields.

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

Charles and Ray Eames created timeless, intelligent, elegant solutions. They showcased the expansiveness that creative people have.

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agency(s), or inhouse department(s) of the past 60 years? Of today? Anagrama out of Mexico City continues to inspire with a balance of timeless modernity and beauty.

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

The Viceland redesign is something I go back to time and time again.

56 GDUSA 2023 | PEOPLE TO WATCH

ERIC BENSON

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR, GRAPHIC DESIGN & DESIGN FOR RESPONSIBLE INNOVATION

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN, URBANA IL

Eric Benson was born in Arizona and raised in Mid-Michigan where he later received his BFA in Graphic and Industrial Design from the University of Michigan in 1998. He worked professionally as a UI/UX designer at Razorfish and Texas Instruments before he received his MFA in design from the University of Texas at Austin in 2006. His MFA thesis became the internationally recognized and award-winning sustainable design website www.re-nourish.org. His work with Re-nourish translated into an academic career where he currently is an Associate Professor of Graphic Design and Responsible Innovation at the University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign. His research and teaching at Illinois laid the foundation to create the Fresh Press Agri-Fiber Paper Lab. Fresh Press explores the potential of papermaking to be zero waste, environmentally sustainable, and a catalyst for a thriving local economy.

Benson has published and lectured internationally on the importance of sustainable design. His work has also garnered numerous design awards and has been seen in notable venues like The Walker Art Center,

the Smithsonian Cooper Hewitt National Design Museum, the Hammer Museum, the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, and RISD.

I am certain that Graphic Design will continue to be useful for business and hopeful that it will trend toward more positive social and environmental impacts. I've been working in sustainability since 2004, and have seen progress, but it's been too slow considering the risks climate change poses. I have seen better steps forward by graphic designers in DEI work, however. That makes me optimistic for 2023 and beyond.

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

Milton Glaser and Shepard Fairey

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agency(s), or inhouse department(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

Pentagram, Wieden + Kennedy, and Firebelly Design

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

Apple

Favorite or most influential design project or campaign in any medium for the past 60 years? Package, poster, website, ad, publication or motion design, etc.

2008 Obama Presidential Campaign

Most influential design products, services, or technology of the past 60 years?

Personal Computer, the internet, iPhone, Artificial Intelligence, Solar Glass, Streaming Media, and mRNA

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JEREMY MICKEL

FOUNDER/CREATIVE DIRECTOR, MCKL, LOS ANGELES CA

Jeremy Mickel grew up in Ohio and studied Fine Arts at Indiana University. He moved to New York City in 2001 and worked at Carbone Smolan Agency and Columbia University before starting his own design practice. He continued his education at The School of Visual Arts, where he studied type design with the legendary Ed Benguiat.

Jeremy released his first typeface, Router, in 2008 and launched MCKL as a foundry and design studio in 2012. He has published many popular typefaces over the last 15 years, including Fort, Shift, Superior Title, Redaction, and Owners. He’s built an international reputation for custom work through creative partnerships with top design firms including Pentagram, Collins, Wolff Olins, and Turner Duckworth, and has designed logos and custom typefaces for adidas, the LA28 Olympics, Warner Bros, MGM, Pfizer, The Atlantic, and Bon Appétit.

Jeremy has taught at Rhode Island School of Design and Minneapolis College of Art and Design, and lectured at design conferences around the world. His work has been honored by the Type Director’s Club and AIGA, and his typefaces have been exhibited at MoMA PS1, the Cooper Hewitt National Design Museum, and the Walker Art Center.

He lives in Los Angeles with his husband and their French bulldog, Bruno.

It’s an interesting time to be alive! While the last few years have shown how chaotic and unpredictable life on this planet can be, we’re also witnessing unprecedented innovations in technology and human achievement in the forms of artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and green energy. Over the centuries, scientific discoveries have had huge effects on culture, sometimes in ways that take many years to reveal themselves. I think we’ll see equivalent shifts in art and design in our lifetimes.

I’m optimistic for the future because I’m inspired to learn, create, and collaborate. It may look different than how we’ve worked in the past, but by evolving and staying nimble we can forge the next era of design together.

Most influential graphic designer of the last 60 years? It’s hard to imagine a more important, engaging, and inspiring designer than Paula Scher. Getting to draw type for her has been an absolute joy of my career.

Most influential product?

The devices coming out of Cupertino have revolutionized entire industries over and over again. We’re lucky to live in a time where designers around the world can basically run their business from anywhere with a laptop.

58 GDUSA 2023 | PEOPLE TO WATCH

SUSANNA HAYWARD

DEPUTY ART DIRECTOR NEW YORK MAGAZINE, BROOKLYN NY

My name is Susanna Hayward, I’m a New York City based graphic designer and illustrator. I’m currently the Deputy Art Director for New York Magazine. I live in Brooklyn with my boyfriend Cole and mini dachshund, Bug.

We will always need graphic designers! The past three years have taught us that our ways of working have changed along with the way we take in content. Whether it be a print magazine, social media, or an online article, a designer is a necessary visual storyteller in any medium.

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years?

I’m biased, but I’m a huge fan of New York Magazine cofounder Milton Glaser. During my time at Esquire I had a trove of the archival issues by George Lois that always come to mind when looking for inspiration.

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agency(s), or inhouse department(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

I’m still referencing the work of Pushpin Studios from the 60s! Their designs are timeless. Modern day I love seeing what Pentagram is coming up with, they set the bar for branding design.

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

The Pan Am logo design is iconic, and something you’d want to hang on a print in your studio. Biased again, but the New York Magazine logo has stood the test of time, and is a beautiful ode the city.

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MARTIN MAGNER

CREATIVE DIRECTOR, VIRTUE WORLDWIDE, NEW YORK NY

Martin started his career at Ogilvy Cape Town where he worked as an Art Director across some of the world's leading brands including Volkswagen and Audi. He then made his way into the Youth Engagement space where he spent his formative years placing global brands like Adidas, Spotify and Levi’s in the heart of culture. His passion lies with the youth, empowering them to co-create with brands creating a future they want to see.

Martin is now based in New York City as a Creative Director, and global head of Art for the Coca-Cola business at Virtue Worldwide. He’s pioneering a team of future-focused, culture-first creatives who are elevating and shaping brands to create a meaningful impact on the world. Martin played a big role in the launch of Coca-Cola Creations — a global platform intended to reach Gen Z audiences.

He was part of the team who developed the award-winning work for Backup Ukraine. A project created to offer meaningful support to Ukraine, the idea simply gave average citizens the ability to ‘backup’ their culture to the cloud where no bombs could reach.

In the past year Martin has been honored with multiple awards including Adweek Creative 100 Honoree, Business Insiders Rising Star, Cannes Grand Prix, Lia Grand Prix, New York Festival Awards and multiple more.

I am obsessed with the power of design and live by ‘Look crazy, talk smart’. When I think of graphic design, I consider it something so much more than just a good typeface. I think of design as a conversation starter. If it’s not making someone feel something, then you’ve failed. Design should be gorgeous, grotesque, stripped back, uncomfortable and have a damn story to tell.

We’re going through so much collectively and as designers we have the power to bring stories to life in a way that makes people stop, read or listen. From an early age, I used fashion (terrible homemade graphic t-shirts) as a conversation starter. Growing up, painfully shy, I realized the power of attention. When you can harness the power to grab people with aesthetic, imagery, looks or vibes, you have the opportunity to create understanding. And when more people understand each other, stronger connections can be formed.

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

Today: Aiden Zamiri, Yuen Hsieh, BRTHR, Sam Rolfes, AG Cook, Colin D Fletcher

Last 60 years: Pretty much the entire Project X magazine archive.

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agency(s), or inhouse department(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

I’ve always been inspired by culture, not industry. The hyperpop scene is absolutely sending me with their aesthetics. From high end established artists to DIY parties in Brooklyn. The flyers, posters, album covers, t-shirts, EVERYTHING.

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

The evolution of Vivienne Westwood. Her entire aesthetic over the years has been unwavering and I’m obsessed with her iconic orb that has taken so many different shapes and forms.

60 GDUSA 2023 | PEOPLE TO WATCH

CHRIS MAY

CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER ELEPHANT, SAN FRANCISCO, CA

Chris is Chief Creative Officer of Elephant, an IPG creative company. With over 22 years of international experience, Chris is a digitally focused thinker, maker and leader for the Elephant creative team. His digitalfirst approach has allowed him to work on a wide range of products and services from building the first eCommerce platform for Boots UK Ltd to campaigns and experiences for Audi, Apple, Beats by Dre, Comcast, FX Networks, Twitch, and more. Prior to Elephant, Chris held creative leadership roles at Razorfish, AKQA and Digitas.

I’ve always been an optimist, so yes, I'm optimistic going into 2023. At Elephant we are seeing exciting opportunities around the topic of Web3. And because this is a relatively new territory with new concepts to communicate, there’s a tremendous need for Graphic Design and Communication Design to partner with these emerging companies to clarify their product, find their identity, and define their voice.

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years? Today?

I always go back to the work of Josef Müller-Brockman. In fact, his book, ‘Pioneer of Swiss Graphic Design’ is sitting beside me as I write this. I’ve always admired his work because it still looks so fresh and timeless — and was made long before computers played a role in a designer's toolkit. Because of that, I see a lot of great consideration, architecture, and craftsmanship in his work. It’s pure graphic design — highly functional yet beautiful.

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agency(s), or inhouse department(s) of the past 60 years? Today?

Often when I’m in the initial stages of a project, especially when it’s brand related, I’ll take a look at what Pentagram is doing. I see them as THE reference point. When it comes to in-house I’d say Channel 4 (TV Channel in the UK) has to be up there.

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

Early in my career I was lucky to work with one of the designers who was part of the RAC rebrand (UK's longest serving motoring organization) back in the 90’s, by North Design. I got to see the brand guidelines manual they created, and it was such a standout piece in terms of the sheer depth and craft … I'd never seen something so thoughtful and beautifully made.

Favorite or most influential design project or campaign in any medium for the past 60 years? (e.g., package, poster, website, ad, publication design)

I’m giving you a lot of old school references here, but I would say the work of Otl Aicher for the 1972 Munich Olympics is something to look up to — it’s a classic. Many years ago I snapped some original posters at a market in Greenwich, London.

Most influential product, service or technology of the past 60 years? Wikipedia

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JULIE RILEY

OWNER/GRAPHIC DESIGNER, J.RILEY CREATIVE, PEARLAND, TX

Julie is an award-winning designer based outside of Houston, TX. She currently owns and creates within j.riley creative, a firm she began in 2007. Throughout her career, Julie has used her artistic gift and passion for design to provide visually meaningful solutions for her clients. Her specialties in major packaging and branding endeavors include logo design, print collateral design, web design, and packaging design.

Julie holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, with emphasis in Visual Communications from the University of Oklahoma. She has had the opportunity to work with large clients such as Coca-Cola, The Minute Maid Company, Odwalla, and ConocoPhillips. Since starting her own firm, Julie has enjoyed working with clients from across the US and in a variety of industries, including industrial, construction, retail, consulting, and healthcare.

Each client presents unique challenges, based on their different businesses and industries. Julie thrives in learning about each client’s product, strategy, or goal, then creating a visual solution that reflects these intricacies. This attention to detail, even when subtle, builds brand loyalty visually and from the inside out. By providing a deeper connection, the story behind the mark reinforces the story behind the business.

Julie’s work has been featured in GDUSA and Logo Lounge.

Looking forward to 2023, are you optimistic about the role and impact of Graphic Design and Visual Communication in Business? Culture? Causes? Why do you feel that way?

Heading into 2023, I am very optimistic about visual communication and its growing importance in business and culture. While general principles of design remain timeless, the messages change constantly, and designers get the privilege of visualizing these messages. In business, using this invaluable tool to emphasize a written message — both externally to clients and internally to employees — has become more prominent.

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

FedEx Branding. I remember when I was a student learning about graphic design, and first seeing the hidden arrow in FedEx’s logo. I love the subtlety and use of negative space that also aligns with the company’s purpose. This principle has stuck with me and drives much of my design process to this day.

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AUDREY G. BENNETT

FOUNDING DIRECTOR

DESIGN FOR SOCIAL INNOVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY LAB, UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN, ANN ARBOR MI

Audrey G. Bennett is a naturalized American scholar of Afro-Caribbean descent and the 2022 recipient of the AIGA Steven Heller Prize for Cultural Commentary. She is a 2015 Andrew W. Mellon Distinguished Scholar of the University of Pretoria, South Africa, and a 1997 College Art Association Professional Development Fellow. She joined the Penny W. Stamps School of Art and Design faculty in art and design as a full professor with tenure in 2018. In 2019, she became an inaugural University Diversity and Social Transformation Professor. Previously Professor Bennett taught for 20 years at Rensselaer in Upstate New York, where she directed the doctoral program in Communication and Rhetoric. Her scholarly agenda diverges into theoretical and applied lines of inquiry on the design of interactive aesthetics to facilitate cross-cultural communication to yield cognitive and behavioral changes toward equity and justice. Through Baohouse, a virtual design studio she founded around 2005, she works collaboratively with professional and community stakeholders to broaden participation in museum experiences by blind, partially-blind, and neurodivergent visitors; increase awareness and prevention of HIV/AIDS; and diversify STEM and graphic design. Professor Bennett is a member of the

Editorial Boards of the journals Image and Text (South Africa) and New Design Ideas (Azerbaijan) and a former member of the Board of Directors of the College Art Association, where she served as Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Her 2021 op-ed, “The African Roots of Swiss Design,” has garnered over 89,000 reads and was republished through various media outlets, including Fast Company. Design Annual, Gold Award.

There are two reasons for my optimism about the role of graphic design in culture and the discipline’s canon. First, the horrific murder of George Floyd in 2020 underscored the festering perennial problem of systemic racism and oppression in American society and how graphic forms continue to lend a hand in communitybased advocacy efforts for justice and equity. Second, the simultaneous highlighting of old, marginalized scholarship and the emergence of new texts also played a vital role in decolonizing the history and future of graphic design.

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years?

Steven Heller, Sylvia Harris, Michele Washington, Saki Mafundikwa

Of today?

Maurice Cherry, Silas Munro, Anne Berry

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agency(s), or inhouse department(s) of the past 60 years?

Pentagram

Of today?

Polymode

Favorite or most influential logo or branding project of the past 60 years?

Black Lives Matter

Favorite or most influential design project or campaign in any medium for the past 60 years?

Black Lives Matter (movement), Culturally-Situated Design Tools (website), The Black Experience in Design (Edited Collection)

Most influential design products, services or technology of the past 60 years?

Apple Computer

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SARAH RATINETZ

CREATIVE DIRECTOR FORSMAN & BODENFORS, NEW YORK NY

Sarah Ratinetz is a Creative Director, Art at the global collective Forsman and Bodenfors and is based in New York City. From Fortune 500s to start-ups, Sarah leads with a craft-driven approach to solving complex business problems. Working at agencies big and small, she brings over 12 years of experience to creative teams and her clients. Her client experience spans a variety of categories including global finance and banking, CPG, alcohol, tech, fashion, healthcare, and DTC brands. Her work has been recognized by the Art Directors Club, Harvard Business Review, the Webby Awards, and the TikTok Awards. Sarah graduated from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York with a BFA in Communication Design. She gains constant inspiration from New York’s ever-changing creative landscape.

I’m incredibly optimistic about the role of graphic design in 2023. The collective awareness of design and its impact has never been greater. We are routinely interacting with branding and design systems via consumer products, software, and social media. These interactions are improving our lives, solving problems, and keeping us more informed.

More than anything, I’ve been inspired over the last few years by those who have used visual communication and design to support larger discussions of social change. Graphic Design will always be a medium and platform for driving awareness and creating conversations.

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

Michael Bierut’s human approach to creativity has taught a generation that graphic design is a language and a tool of communication. It’s vital to our lives and it can solve very real problems.

I was introduced to Bierut's work as a Communication Design student when I had the opportunity to attend a guest lecture he was giving. It became a defining moment in my education and career.

As a proud New Yorker, I also love how embedded Bierut’s work is in the fabric of the city. Whenever I need a boost, I’ll rewatch his TED Talk, “How to Design a Library that Makes Kids Want to Read”.

Most influential product, service or technology of the past 60 years?

TikTok has made the world feel bigger and smaller at the same time. It has completely changed the way we communicate, both online and “IRL.” It has connected us to people and communities we didn’t know we needed to be a part of.

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MICHELLE MATTAR

FOUNDER/CREATIVE DIRECTOR, PRACTICE, NEW YORK NY

Michelle Mattar is a graphic designer specialized in building and launching brands. Her work blends interdisciplinary skills in graphic design, strategy, copywriting, marketing, research and art direction. Michelle is based in New York City but works with clients globally.

After 6 years working independently to build new brands holistically, she started her own brand building house called Practice. Together with a small team, she's continuing to take new businesses from zero to launch. Practice is an evolution of the brand building practices she cultivated as an independent, and their model and process is designed to keep her close to the work but build at scale.

Her process considers everything it takes to bring a product or service to market. Michelle believes that while graphic design is fundamental, it is not the only thing that makes a successful brand.

Her work merges design with how a brand behaves in real world challenges: so it can adapt to an ever-changing world while staying true to its core values. Michelle, and Practice, focus on building brands that live and grow, that attract talent, open dialogues, spark trends, and raise the bar for ethical commerce.

She also has a passion for ethics and started Waste Not, a searchable site of sustainable suppliers. Born from years of requiring sustainability research for consumer launches, she made the research free and accessible: because sustainability shouldn’t be a trade secret.

In 2022 we saw the rise of humans leveraging AI, and a continuation of ushering in an era of technological innovation from years prior. True, machines and software can often outperform tasks with more efficiency, but the execution lacks artistry. There's no savoir-faire or distinctively human ability to respond to the needs of the individual. Ironically, as a technological future expands: it needs to humanize.

Having my hands in branding, marketing and creative efforts for innovative brands, I have witnessed this change and I believe that some things will remain fundamental — communication, which includes design, will continue to be one of them. It’s possible that standing apart in a highly technological future means being more human and more empathetic than ever before

Most influential graphic designer(s) or art directors(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

Massimo Vignelli seamlessly merged artistic principles of design with real-life applications, industry needs, and commerce. He elevated the field of graphic design, and his career embodies how a designer’s mind and eye can help shape experiences, environments, and perception.

Most influential graphic design firm(s), ad agency(s), or inhouse department(s) of the past 60 years? Of today?

The work of PBS: their mission towards access is tremendous, as well as the visionary creative and art direction for some of their programs. I admire their imagination to enlist minds like Jim Henson to create a variety of accessible, joyful and inspired spaces for education, environments, and perception.

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STUDENTS TO WATCH

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STUDENTS TO WATCH |

With the help of several of America’s leading art and design schools, we once again identify top students ready to burst on the design scene. Some are undergrads, others are graduate or continuing education students, all have found personal and professional growth through their programs. Our Students To Watch feature has become tradition that resonates and renews: the students get recognized and the professional creative community gets refreshed. Given the unique challenges of the moment, we also asked the students how they perceive their chosen profession, what inspires them, and what paths they plan to pursue. Please note that in the next edition of GDUSA magazine, the institutions of higher learning from which these students come (and select others) will themselves get the spotlight.

tYUN GAO

Yun Gao (she/her) is an artist/designer born in China and raised in the U.S. She is currently a senior at The Cooper Union School of Art in New York City, where she has taken advantage of many design courses. Her work circles around social and cultural conversations, and she has a special interest in exploring the overlap of design and education. She has taught at The Cooper Union Saturday Program, a tuition-free studio art program for NYC high school students taught by Cooper undergraduates and worked at Block as a junior brand designer. She is currently freelancing with EA Creative Consulting and Engineering, an engineering, urban planning, and design firm that works with large-scale transportation clients, such as JFK.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Reading and watching other people's creative processes.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I love design as a problem-solving practice, and thus, I hope to be an “all-rounder” who is able to work in all aspects of design.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

The most important thing that The Cooper Union has taught me is the meaning of design and the power of communication.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD? EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

Although I have no one particular in the field that I look up to, I respect my sister greatly as she is the most hardworking person I know, and I draw my inspiration from small everyday encounters living with my family.

WHAT ARE YOU READING, LISTENING TO, OR WATCHING?

I have been reading “Understanding Comics: The Invisible Art” by Scott McCloud, a great book about understanding comics as an art medium.

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2023

THE COOPER UNION SCHOOL OF ART

ZOË PULLEY

RHODE ISLAND SCHOOL OF DESIGN (RISD)

Zoë Pulley (b. 7/93) was born in Chicago, Illinois and grew up in South Orange, New Jersey. She currently is based in Providence, RI pursuing her MFA in Graphic Design as a Presidential Fellow. She received her BFA from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2015 and began a career in apparel design in New York shortly after graduating. She designed many a legging and sport bra during this time for brands such as Under Armor, Splendid and Spalding. Motivated to preserve generational narratives of Black experiences through print, textiles and other media, Pulley pursues ongoing projects including the jewelry line GRAN SANS and the collaborative opencall project called Black Joy Archive.

Her current work primarily focuses on the narratives of Black folks and questions the visibility of Blackness and meaning of these stories within various spaces. She loves to laugh, she loves her grandma and she currently loves the color orange (again).

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Slow mornings, Good one-on-ones, Walks, People and stories

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I get most jazzed about designing systems that need to be applied to various outputs — whether that be publications, digital, space or objects. I find it especially fun to figure out one core design concept that can then guide the narrative for all other components of a project.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

(Re)Reading Beloved by Toni Morrison and Black Performance on the Outskirts of the Left: A History of the Impossible by Malik Gaines Listening to SAULT, Notes of a Native Son and DOMi & JD BECK (a lot). Watching Abbott Elementary — we stan for Quinta B!!

IRIS XIE

RHODE ISLAND SCHOOL OF DESIGN (RISD)

Iris Xie is a Chinese-American designer from Massachusetts. She is a graphic design major at Rhode Island School of Design. Her work takes a friendly and nostalgic approach, utilizing a love for humor, typography, and communication in order to create evocative and accessible works. She likes to infiltrate the disciplines of animation and illustration using a graphic design mindset, and marrying digital and analog techniques as much as she can. Recently, she has been tinkering in the realms of game design, machine embroidery, and poster design.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Looking at the works of others that make my heart race. Getting in the zone with noise-cancelling headphones.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

Branding, illustration, animation, music videos, storytelling.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

Learning about how much time is necessary to spend thinking about your practice versus actually creating, recognizing that hard skills and tools for creation change all the time, realizing that thinking is ultimately more important.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD? EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

My very first design mentor, Claudia DePiante Vicin, who teaches me to seek personal truth.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

Listening to Young Fathers and The Minimalists podcast, reading Severance by Ling Ma, playing Pokemon GO.

2023 | STUDENTS TO WATCH

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INTAN ZAKRI-RAJA ACADEMY OF ART UNIVERSITY

My name is Intan Zakri-Raja. I double-majored in Graphic Design and Communications at the University of Utah as an undergraduate student. I am currently studying for an MFA in Graphic Design at Academy of Art University. My thesis project aims to empower the next generation of female gaming developers.

I’m a detail-oriented designer with a knack for conceptual solutions and innovative aesthetics. Making graphics work in a cohesive and flexible system is my specialty. I strive to bring out emotions in others. I also seek to make positive changes in people’s lives with the messages I portray. My skills range from illustrating and writing to animating and coding. I’m also a pretty good cat whisperer.

I currently live with my husband and two cats in California. In my free time, you will find me drawing, writing, or playing video games (currently addicted to Sonic Frontiers and Final Fantasy XIV).

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Video games, music, friends, and family. My husband is my number one fan.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

Motion graphics, though I also love UX/UI and editorial design. Working in the gaming or entertainment industry would be a good fit for me.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

Graphic design influences our lives in more ways than we realize.

CARLY CURRAN MERCER UNIVERSITY

Carly Curran is an Atlanta-born designer receiving a Bachelor of Arts from Mercer University in Graphic Design. Art has always been an ever-evolving practice for her, as she continues to push the limits of multimedia design. The areas of study she excels in are digital illustration, photography, interactive design, and she also enjoys studio-based work including ceramics. She is particularly interested in finding ways to push the constraints of and combine areas of design. Carly’s professional experience in corporate graphic design and marketing, enabled her to create content libraries for numerous companies, and also produce branding materials and guidelines for companies. She is passionate about the work she produces down to the details. She has worked alongside fellow Mercer professors to become a published artist, producing illustrative material for an academic textbook. She has worked with Mercer’s Athletic Director creating foundation logos and awards for donors. Carly has been able to accomplish all of this, while also competing as a Division 1 athlete on the women’s lacrosse team at Mercer.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Producing work for others who can see and feel the passion and thought I put into my work, as well as the delicate work I produce only for myself.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

Premium packaging design and personal/company branding.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

When you find a distinct style within your work, people will start to notice, and they will want your work that you produce. Your work is essentially your identity.

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RAAYA CHAKRABARTI SCHOOL OF VISUAL ARTS (SVA)

Raaya is an art director and designer currently studying as a senior advertising student. She grew up moving around Southeast Asia and lived in Vietnam, The Philippines, and India before moving to New York. She is a Scorpio, a conceptual and empathetic risk-taker. Before anything, Raaya considers herself an appreciator of the arts. Watching films, reading literature, listening to music, and studying art have allowed her to live a thousand lives beyond her own. Raaya’s work reflects the exact moment it was made, empathetically examining culture within the ever-changing labyrinth of society. Her creative solutions navigate cultural shifts but also challenge them. Raaya hopes to do work in her career that makes people laugh and cry. Raaya enjoys communicating in many mediums, including print design, web and digital, 3D, and motion graphics, and she continues to learn different ways to communicate her vision. She has interned at creative agencies in Mumbai (Infectious Ad) and New York (Fallon). You can see more of her work at raaya.work.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Reading, listening, and watching. Hearing other people’s stories is an excellent source of inspiration for me. There are so many great mediums to tell your story: film, literature, music, and graphic design. I’m always searching for new and exciting ways to tell stories.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

I’ve read a bunch of memoirs this year, including Hunger by Roxane Gay, The Chronology of Water by Lidia Yuknavitch, and I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy, to name a few. I’m currently working on Men We Reaped by Jesmyn Ward. I also recently watched All the Beauty and the Bloodshed, a portrait of Nan Goldin’s life that was directed by Laura Poitras.

DOAH KWON SCHOOL OF VISUAL ARTS (SVA)

Doah is a senior majoring in Graphic Design. Her passions within the field of design include creating brand identities, designing for print, and user experiences. She spent her childhood in East Asia before moving to New York and has gained a unique perspective that she proudly utilizes in her work. She tackles challenges head-on to craft creative solutions to complicated or ambiguous problems. As a designer, she firmly believes that anyone can communicate their various experiences and relate to others through the world of design. Outside the classroom, Doah is frequently seen traveling, going on walks (even in the winter!), and exploring film photography. A quote that resonates with her about design is something Steve Jobs once said: “Design is not just about how it looks and feels — design is how it works.”

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I am especially interested in creating brand identities, which go beyond just a logo and some graphic elements. To me, delivering the personality of the brand means delivering the experience felt by the audience and creating an emotional bond. I am passionate about being able to contribute to something that pervades all products of a brand and becomes an identity that people will recognize for decades.

WHAT

ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

I am currently watching HBO’s Westworld and am fascinated by the blend between AI and human society. To me, it presents a dramatization of how our future could play out with AI becoming more advanced and playing a bigger role in human society each year.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD?

Brian Collins. His works are timeless, authentic, and sensational. As Brian said, the whole system should always work to be both unique and relevant.

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JOUMANA IBRAHIM

SAVANNAH COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN (SCAD)

Joumana is a Lebanese design educator based in Dubai, U.A.E. who is currently pursuing her M.F.A. in graphic design and visual experience from SCAD. She graduated with an M.A. from the London College of Communications (LCC) after obtaining her B.A. in graphic design and a minor in fine arts from the Lebanese American University (LAU). She has taught at LAU in the past few years with students at every level, from Foundation courses to M.A.. Before teaching, Joumana was a senior art director with Leo Burnett in Beirut, where she won several regional and international awards. As part of her academic work, Joumana has conducted workshops in Lebanon and abroad on data visualization, graphic design, and advertising for participants from different professional backgrounds. Her focus in her MFA is on deepening her research and writing skills and taking the opportunity to relish in each stage of the design process.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

There isn’t a quick and short answer to this question. The nature of the project, my environment, the people around me, and the context all inspire me (or the opposite). I would sometimes find inspiration in past moments that seemed mundane but suddenly take on a whole new meaning and dimension.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

When I signed up for this degree, my goal was to strengthen my research and writing skills. As an educator, I would like to deepen my knowledge in topics related to the graphic design field, such as humanities and social sciences, and to work on expressing my findings in various written and visual forms.

BORIS SCHNEERSOHN

SAVANNAH COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN (SCAD)

Hi, I’m Boris Schneersohn. I’m from France and South Korea, born and raised in Hong Kong. During my 20 years of stay in Hong Kong, I was constantly exposed to multicultural experiences and people. I’m interested in improving the day-to-day experience of people from all walks of life. Exploring the development of identities, improvement of systems, or the creation of opportunities for collaboration.

I love working with brands with passion and transforming their messages into something visible that communicates their stories and values. After graduation with my B.F.A. from SCAD, I’d love to join an agency or design studio. When I’m not designing, you can find me watching sad or romantic movies, reading, or listening to music. Thanks for taking the time to read my profile!

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Excellent work, design that truly catches your attention and makes you remember it forever. It makes me want to design something just as good, or even better.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I really love creating identities for brands, as well as logo design. So, anything with branding and identity design.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

I learned that creatives in general do not sleep much.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD? EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

I have a lot of people I look up to. But a name that always stuck with me throughout my time designing is Paul Rand.

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MIRA DANDIKER

SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF DESIGN

Hi, I'm Mira Dandiker and I am a designer and aspiring art director. I'm currently a senior finishing up my studies in Communications Design. Born outside of London, raised in Toronto and Minneapolis, and currently split my time between Syracuse and NYC — taking advantage of all the creative opportunities both cities have to offer. Throughout my life, I’ve grown to love creative problem-solving and looking for intricate solutions to complex questions. I consider myself an interdisciplinary designer, my passions lie in editorial, brand identity, and packaging design. I've had the opportunity to work with a diverse range of clients, from Fortune 100 companies to one of my favorite rappers, Metro Boomin. My background and identity play a vital role in shaping my design philosophy. I'm only 22 years old, so I’m still discovering who I am. This self-exploration is stimulated by honing my craft and using creativity as a medium to explore different facets of myself. Everything that I am attracted to, whether a color, an interesting article, or an ad I saw on the subway, goes into my inner “inspiration blender,” and manifests in my designs. My work is a representation of the ever-changing self.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I am constantly inspired by culture and the visual and cultural essences of community. Culture, in its broadest sense, encompasses a wide array of forms such as art, design, fashion, food, history, music, etc. It is not just a trend, but rather the foundation of a community and serves as the most prominent representation of any given civilization. The strength of a community can be measured by the strength of its culture, which is personified in its cultural identity and cultural objects. Community is the new currency. This fuels me as a designer, because I get the opportunity to be a cultural differentiator and have the ability to design for a greater good, to design and visualize a future and community I want and I am accepted in.

ALEXA POLICANO SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF DESIGN

Alexa Policano is a senior pursuing a BFA in Communications Design and a minor in English and Textual Studies. Before she knew how to read, she would flip through picture books and pretend to read the stories to her favorite stuffed animal. She did eventually learn to read, and has since followed her passion for visual and written storytelling which introduced her to graphic and communications design. Her design passion lies in branding, publication, and copywriting. Alexa is a night-owl with a secret love for pulling all-nighters in the studio with her friends that end in early morning coffee runs. She gets her best ideas in the shower. She is a passionate car-concert performer. When she isn’t designing, Alexa loves to crochet, draw, and read.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

People, literature, and my environment! I’m an avid people watcher and I’m fascinated by our inclination for storytelling. Wherever I am, I take note of the sights, sounds, and structures around me.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I’m really interested in branding, publication design, and copywriting. WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

The value of critique! I didn’t have much opportunity for critical design conversations prior to my college career, and critiques with my peers and professors have changed my design process and thinking.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD? EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

Paula Scher

WHAT ARE YOU READING, LISTENING TO, WATCHING?

Listening: Blue Slide Park by Mac Miller

Watching: Abbott Elementary

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ZOË GLENN HART-WAGSTAFF

ARTCENTER COLLEGE OF DESIGN

Zoë Glenn Hart-Wagstaff was born in Pasadena, California and raised in Sundance, Utah. The dynamic dissonance between the two places shaped who she is. She graduated with a BFA in Graphic Design from Brigham Young University and moved back to California after graduating.

In design, Zoë loves to look at problems holistically and enjoys finding ways to simplify and improve processes. She isn’t afraid to go against the grain, ask questions, and get uncomfortable to make something great happen, while finding the fun in it all. It is here, in the chaos of the process, that she finds joy. Currently, Zoë is pursuing a Masters of Design in Brand Design and Strategy, and plans to use this degree to build better and more strategic brands, solve problems, and make changes for companies, communities, and individuals.

When Zoë isn’t in class or working, you can find her doing something outside like surfing, mountain biking, skiing, rollerskating, or walking her Great Dane with her husband. She also enjoys traveling, trying new food, cooking for friends and family, and all forms of analog design and art (most recently screen printing at home).

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD? EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

Women in design inspire me. Historically, Ray Eames — she was brilliant and made huge contributions to the design world in so many areas (architecture, graphic design, film, and furniture to name a few). She gives me hope for being totally enthralled with all kinds of things (sewing, letterpress, riso, screen printing, architecture, and interiors). Today, I look up to women like Jessica Hische and Jen and Amy Hood who are all making rad work, doing fun projects, and giving back to the design community through teaching and other opportunities.

EMMA SHIPLEY ARTCENTER COLLEGE OF DESIGN

My desire to tell stories has been a through line in my life. As a journalism student, I was taught to examine every angle, ask questions that challenge my belief systems, and conduct research to support the right narrative. I apply a similar methodology to design, weaving together meaningful stories with captivating visuals. I balance research with emotion. I stay curious about what is possible, and I remain flexible in my approach and execution. I am not afraid to take risks — to fail, to start over — synthesizing visual narratives to uncover the most compelling solution.

I am Emma, a designer and writer. A graduate student at ArtCenter College of Design. A Midwest transplant shaping stories in the West.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I am constantly in awe of the typographic details of my physical environment. Since moving to Los Angeles, I’ve developed a love of signage — this city provides countless specimens of diverse graphic languages all piled on top of each other. It is chaotic and energetic and vibrant, and I find myself deeply inspired by it.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

Identity design, book design, and perhaps teaching (one day).

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

I’m reading the series Lilith’s Brood by Octavia Butler along with The Visual History of Type by Paul McNeil. I’m listening to Mitski, Orville Peck, Weyes Blood, and Atta Boy while working through All There Is with Anderson Cooper, a podcast on the experience of grief. I’m watching Alone on Netflix and staying current with the various Real Housewives franchises on Bravo.

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RENATA DOMINGUEZ

PRATTMWP COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN

Renata Dominguez is a Mexican-American multimedia artist and designer. She is a second-year student pursuing a Bachelor’s in Fine Arts degree in Communications Design. Art and design have always been a central part of her life. She grew up in a family of artists and designers who owned an advertising agency. This taught her design lessons while she was growing up and inspired her to follow the same path of becoming a designer.

Dominguez won a scholarship to attend workshops at ArtCenter College of Design in California. She has worked as a Social Media Strategist Intern at Coaching Season, LLC, where she created content for social media, digital communications, and website layout. She is also the president of PrattMWP’s Communications Design Gallery social organization.

She is excited and motivated to enter the industry of design, and she aspires to become an art director at an advertising agency in New York City.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Creating meaningful and innovative designs inspires me most. I strive to create work with emotion and empathy.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

After working on multiple projects in different areas of design, I found I am passionate about branding and packaging. I am very interested in how creativity and strategy work together to create a product campaign that communicates effectively to the audience.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

I believe art, design, and music are connected. I always listen to music that connects with a style of design I am working on at that moment. Artists like Gorillaz, David Bowie, Siddharta, Gustavo Cerati, and Zoe inspire me to create.

PATRICIA NARBONA

PRATTMWP COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN

Patricia Narbona is a multidisciplinary designer from Chiclana de la Frontera, Spain. She is currently based in Raleigh, NC. She is completing her BFA in communication design at Pratt Institute and primarily focuses on UX design and illustration. She has always been interested in colorful, playful color palettes and geometric shapes. As an illustrator, she is interested in portraying human relationships with themselves and with each other. As a designer, she is passionate about using design to create interfaces that promote sustainability while keeping user accessibility in mind. In addition to illustration and design, Patricia also loves to read, paint, travel, and spend time in nature.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I am mostly inspired by the eclectic color palettes and energetic, geometric lines of the furniture, architecture, and graphic design of the mid-century-modern design and post-modern design movements. However, I also find daily inspiration in street art, vintage books and advertisements, internet design trends, and in music!

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

In the future, I hope to work in the field of web design or UX/UI design. I am also interested in illustration and hope to further develop my skills within this area.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

I did not expect to learn so much about the importance of the design research process, and the influence that this process can have on your final design. I also did not expect to learn about the importance of using design to solve problems and make an impact on society, such as using it to push sustainable consumption or spread messages of positivity.

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SHEROMA HODGE

FULL SAIL UNIVERSITY

Sheroma Hodge is a creative leader, professional brand manager, photographer and media designer from the Virgin Islands living in Orlando, Florida. She recently earned her MFA in Media Design and was the Salutatorian of her graduating class. Her professional career spans over 20 years with expertise across photography, journalism, communications, and digital and visual design within the private and public sectors, telecommunications, financial services, tourism, sports, entertainment, and many others. Sheroma’s work has been published in numerous publications, online and on television, including NBC’s show ‘The Voice’. She has also had the pleasure of working with a number of creatives and entertainers such as Grammywinning and Grammy-nominated artists. Sheroma is a former Miss Universe British Virgin Islands and was a contestant in the 2011 Miss Universe Pageant in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I'm uber-passionate about film, music, blockchain and the crypto space. I would love to specialize in design in those areas.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

I'm currently listening to Andy Mineo's "Never Land II” album and Lecrae's "Church Clothes 4” album. I'm watching the “Earthstorm" Netflix series.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD?

In my field, I look up to each of my professors in the Full Sail University Media Design MFA program. They brought such effective, yet individualized flair to teaching — which was coated by their invaluable experience and expertise. My professors nurtured my potential and always encouraged me to do my best work.

JAMIE WATSON

FULL SAIL UNIVERSITY

Jamie Watson is a motion and print graphic designer from Atlanta, Georgia. She just completed her B.S. in Digital Arts and Design. Throughout her almost 10 years designing, she has grown incredibly fond of branding, typography, photography, logo and packaging design. With the direction of the industry headed into the motion world, she decided to take a crack at motion graphics where she learned all the 2 and 3-D animation principles in After Effects and Cinema 4-D. Logo reveal, explainer video, and lyric/word forward animations are her favorite type of motion graphics to create. Before attending Full Sail University, she founded, created, and led her school’s first ever art magazine, built and shot multiple yearbooks, worked as part of student council executive board and won various traditional art contests outside of school, all of which led her to pursue her career in graphic design. When she isn’t working, she spends the rest of her time crafting, exploring and adventuring, or training with her dog, Luna.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

The hardest part of designing is wanting to do everything. Regarding motion graphics, I adore the 2-D style explainer videos. I also would love to design posters and/or album covers for artists and venues.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

I just started reading Don't F*cking Panic by Kelsey Darragh. The Perfect Person and This Changes Everything podcasts are some of my favorites when I'm not listening to my everyday pop punk playlists. My partner and I just finished watching Breaking Bad and I’m currently in the middle of Brooklyn 99.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD?

Aside from all my incredible instructors, famous painters, and designers, some others I look up to are the incredible ladies behind “The Brief Collective,” and the Boring Friends design and apparel Instagram pages.

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ISABELLE TAN

PARSONS SCHOOL OF DESIGN

My name is Isabelle Tan and I am a Communication Design senior. I was born in Malaysia and was raised in Bangkok, Thailand ever since I was 2 months old. I am passionate about design, typography, and exploring the usage of type as an image. I believe typography is the very core of good design and that it has become a genuine art form in the world of graphic design. I make time to explore themes that I don’t fully understand in science, music, and fashion. I also love collecting books!

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I get inspired to work by things that surround me such as books, music and sound, furniture, and textures (skin, hair, mold/decay, pixels). The form of my work takes a lot of inspiration from mathematical and scientific graphs, data, and musical notations.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD?

EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

I really look up to the works of Larissa Kasper, Rosario Florio, Samuel Baenziger, Olivier Hug, Tracy Ma, Damon Zucconi and also Tauer Auerbach. My professors also really inspire me!

WHAT IS ONE THING YOUR TIME IN DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DIDN’T EXPECT?

Being a student at Parsons has taught me a lot technically, how to design a brand system, typeset, and code, but most importantly I have honed in on my interests and discovered who I am and how to work with the topics I am passionate about and deeply fascinated by. I feel very lucky!

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

I have been slowly reading Caps Lock by Ruben Pater. I feel like it's important to learn about how graphic design is linked to the outlook of our economy today. The music I listen to influences my work a lot! I love anything ambient, electronic, and experimental. A few of my favorite musicians include Four Tet, Biosphere, Fridge, Floating Points, and Uther Moads.

MAYA VALENCIA

PARSONS SCHOOL OF DESIGN

Maya Valencia is a graphic designer based in New York City. She is in her final year at Parsons School of Design, working on her BFA in Communication Design. Maya works as a design assistant for Caspar Lam and YuJune Park at their design practice, Synoptic Office. She is currently self-publishing her first print magazine, Phase Zero, a publication documenting the current DIY scene in New York City.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Going on walks. Understanding how language is manifested in a city — in the present and in the past — but specifically through cultural movements and their printed matter. The ephemerality of design excites me!

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

Printed matter and installations. Editorial design!

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD?

EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

I am surrounded by incredibly talented people — my friends, classmates, professors, family, etc. The following designers/artists are inspiring to me right now: Paul Elliman, Daniel Eatock, and Julian Klincewicz (among many others). The design collective, Tomato — their process, philosophy, history, work, etc. — is most exciting to me at the moment. Richard Turley is interesting!

WHAT IS ONE THING YOUR TIME IN DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DIDN’T EXPECT?

1. Only you can see the world the way you do — how can you communicate this to everyone else?

2. What you are making is a material manifestation of an idea that is naturally always changing. Nothing is finite or complete, as there are infinite ways to convey one idea in suitable forms. Take off the pressure.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

Reading: Dune (always). Listening to: Experimental Jet Set, Trash And No Star. Watching:Drugstore Cowboy.

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NICOLETTE PEJI

USC ROSKI SCHOOL OF ART + DESIGN

Nicolette Peji is a Mexican & Filipina designer from San Diego, CA, U.S.A and a student at the USC Roski School of Art + Design. She also serves as an AIGA San Diego Tijuana Board Member. As a tri-national designer, she is passionate about sharing untold stories. Her projects focus on finding a deeper “why” and are informed by the genuine experiences of the communities they serve. She is passionate about using design as a tool to make the world a kinder and more inclusive place. For this reason, she has been drawn to projects such as designing the “MLK in LA” exhibition at the USC Fisher Museum of Art to honor the legacy of the most iconic advocate for change in our nation's history. She is a recipient of the AIGA Worldstudio Scholarship, the Farber Grant for Student Excellence, the BBB Ethical Business Award, and the Bezos Family Foundation Scholarship. Currently, she is working with a team of incredible binational designers towards telling the story of her region for the first ever bi-national World Design Capital: San Diego + Tijuana in 2024.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I am inspired by, and aim to amplify, my cultural communities. The iconic pink of the bougainvillea flowers that live outside of every other Mexican household is my most frequently used color. An image of a glowing sun, like the one on the flag of the Philippines, represents resilience in my design work. Words in Spanish or Tagalog, that have no direct English translation, often are present in my projects as well. Furthermore, I prefer my designs to be rooted in social impact and informed by the experiences of marginalized communities like the ones that I come from.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

Community Impact Design: My goal is to work on projects that create unity in a world that seems to be increasingly divided. I love to design brands that tell BIPOC stories and ideate campaigns that spread positive messages.

TIANXI REN

USC ROSKI SCHOOL OF ART + DESIGN

Tianxi Ren is a world explorer, a design thinking enthusiast, and an interdisciplinary creator. She is passionate about life and always enjoys meeting different people and learning from their experiences. She cares about the people, the natural environment, and the future of the next generation.

As a designer with backgrounds in architecture, graphic design, UI/UX design, and photography, Tianxi designs compelling interactive experiences for people through the empathetic human-centered design process. She wants to create designs that not only fulfill people's needs and solve their problems but also empower them to become creative thinkers and designers in their lives.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I always get inspiration from my life by observing, listening, and feeling. I take pictures of anything that amazes me and put them in a digital diary that documents all my ideas.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I want to be a User Experience Designer for mixed reality. I want to explore how AR/VR can elevate our life to the next level, especially in the healthcare and education fields.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

Interdisciplinary exploration. Before I went to the design school, I thought most “design” was done by one person and usually had a specific category, such as product design, graphic design, and architecture design. But my experience collaborating with people from different fields in design school has enriched my mind. Design is a tool, a way of thinking, and developing a good design requires interdisciplinary exploration.

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JAZLYN HUYNH

UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL OKLAHOMA SCHOOL OF DESIGN

Hello! My name is Jazlyn Huynh. I am a student studying Graphic Design and Spanish Modern Language. I enjoy traveling, cooking, and spending time with the people that I love. I also like meeting new people and learning from their perspectives whether they're from a different continent or down the street.

The choice to become a graphic designer was fairly easy as it heavily consists of creative thinking. It brings me joy to help people bring their vision to life and ultimately, help their business or brand thrive. I go about life passionately helping others and trying to bring some light to every room I enter. I am a problem solver and dreamer, so ideas constantly run through my head as I go about my days.

I aspire to continue learning and lending a hand to people in any way I can. Through my passion for graphic design, attention to detail, and love for creative problem solving, I hope to do just that.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I feel inspired by my surroundings and discoveries that I experience each day.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I have always loved brand design as you can watch a brand evolve from start to finish; however, I recently have found package design to be quite fun too.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

Design school has taught me how capable I am — I never thought I would get to where I am, yet with each year of growth, I am continually surprised.

KUMBIT SOH

UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL OKLAHOMA SCHOOL OF DESIGN

Kumbit (Hanna) Soh is a senior majoring in Graphic Design. Born in Fiji and raised in South Korea and Brazil, she experienced diverse cultures ever since a young age. In the process of moving countries, she often faced challenges communicating in a new language. Realizing that drawing could reach others when words could not, she began to engage with communities through drawing and designing. Today, design is a part of her identity. It serves not only as a tool of communication and relationship-building, but also an agent of self-expression. Kumbit believes that expression and communication through design is unbounded by language barriers, enabling her to reach beyond words.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Good music with a cup of matcha latte. The design community that surrounds me. My family and friends. The hope to become the salt and light of this world.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I want to explore as much as possible, but I would love to work with branding and publication design.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

Design is not just about being creative but being able to face challenges, speak up for a change, and cause a positive impact to the community.

WHAT ARE YOU READING, LISTENING TO, WATCHING?

I am reading Steal Like An Artist by Austin Kleon, listening to DAY6, and recently watched Minions 2.

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JOSHUA GARRET

NC STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF DESIGN

Joshua Garrett (he/him/his) is a senior studying Graphic and Ex perience design.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I get inspired when I witness genuine care, specifically in any artisan craft — digital or physical. The nature of Design work can lend itself well to that goal, albeit at varying degrees, but that’s a big reason why I enjoy the 1:1 work-to-results output of design. I am inspired most when I come across people who do artisan work with genuine care; anything from a coffee shop owner to an architect — when you can see they really know what they’re doing and why they do it, it’s really inspiring.

A great example of this is a man by the name of David, who I met in Evansville, Indiana. David and his family owned a coffee shop up there called White Swan, and I was really hit by the humble and driven nature of this guy. I don’t even drink coffee and I was blown away by not only the quality of the drink but also his authentic desire to serve people “a part of himself” or his “life” (I’m paraphrasing). He just really cared and would answer all my silly questions about it with so much humility — the humility of someone who doesn’t seem to compare himself to anyone else.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I’ve become more and more interested in areas like Service Design and Experience Design. I have years of experience in Graphics, which has allowed me some cool moments to step into some of these other areas, whether it’s through a restaurant menu design, a website, or anything that deals with how people enter into an experience and stay there.

With any design work I do, I want to think about it holistically — the start and end of a person’s time with that product, service, or experience. This is also why I love the idea of designing experiences. Anything from a floor layout to a cartoon character that waves at you from the bottom of the drink menu. I love that stuff!

ANABEL RUSSO

NC STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF DESIGN

Anabel Russo (she/her) is a junior studying Graphic and Experience Design.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I began my college experience halfway across the world in the Czech Republic. Although initially I was anxious about the departure from my friends and family, being abroad ignited my curiosity and interest in design, culture, and people. Learning new perspectives and traditions that vary across cultures inspires me to be an adaptable and inclusive designer. These experiences also taught me the value of being observant and asking questions. There is endless inspiration to be found in the details of everyday life. Whenever I feel stuck in a creative rut, I like to take a moment to spend time in nature, engage in conversation, and share meaningful moments with the people closest to me. I am fortunate to be surrounded by creative classmates, friends, and family who continually inspire and motivate me as well.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

My focus now is on specialization in user experience and visual design. My minor is psychology, so I find it fascinating to experiment with the intersection of my interests in order to create human-centered design solutions. I am drawn to purpose-driven projects that empower the user and companies that prioritize an empathetic approach to design. Agency, government, and technology work are all of interest to me. I hope to utilize emerging technologies such as augmented and virtual reality in order to inspire connection and improve the lives of others.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

I have been reading The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk, a book about the body’s physiological and cognitive response to trauma. Outside of design, I have a passion for learning about cognitive and behavioral science. It’s a very insightful read that I would recommend to anyone looking to better understand how the human mind is shaped through our experiences. In order to be a more empathetic, accessible, and inclusive designer, I aim to expand my knowledge of human psychology.

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BEN KAYNOR

VIRGINIA TECH

Hello! My name is Ben Kaynor, and I’m a senior in Graphic Design at Virginia Tech. I’m interested in branding, UI/UX, and motion graphics, but I love all fields of design. When I’m not behind a computer screen, I enjoy drawing and playing video games. I’m also really into acting: I’m part of the campus’ sketch comedy group and I’ve been doing voicework online for a couple of years. Thanks for reading!

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Good design. When I see other people have that “A-Ha!” moment, I want to have it too.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I enjoy all areas of design, but I’ve recently been most interested in branding, UI/UX, and motion graphics.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

Learning to receive and give thoughtful criticism has become a key part of my design process; I don’t think I would appreciate that without the help of my classmates and professors.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD? EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

I’ve recently been smitten with Allan Peters’ style and have been studying his work.

WHAT ARE YOU READING, LISTENING TO, WATCHING?

Ben Marriott’s YouTube channel has been a recent source of inspiration. The techniques he teaches are easily accessible and widely applicable.

JULIA KINDLE

VIRGINIA TECH

Hello! My name is Julia, I'm a digitally-focused artist studying graphic design. While studying it here, I fell in love with design and hope to pursue a career in advertising and motion graphics. I began taking the idea of becoming a professional artist seriously when I started middle school, and I have been enrolled in art-centered electives since then. Creating is my passion and I put my all into every piece I produce! I get a lot of insight into my own practice when observing how my peers approach design problems. I think it’s super important to have a strong community of designers that build each other up. I can’t wait to explore career options that allow me to stretch my creative muscles as a part of a team!

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Definitely seeing other people’s work! Sometimes I’ll see an amazing work of art that fills me with the urge to create, it's a great feeling. I usually save works that inspire me to a Pinterest board so I can go back to them later.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I would really love a career in advertising! I see work done by companies like Outright and The Martin’s Agency and think, “man I’d love to make stuff like that for a living.” There’s so much room for creativity, and it seems like such an open and friendly environment.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

It taught me the value of making numerous sketches before deciding on a final mark. When drawing I usually would only make one sketch and go from there, but since studying at VT I’ve seen how that practice could prevent me from making even better work. I now make a bunch of sketches before deciding on a direction!

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RICKY CHEN

CARNEGIE MELLON SCHOOL OF DESIGN

I’m Ricky, a designer studying Communication Design and HumanComputer Interaction at Carnegie Mellon University. I enjoy building creative tools and software, design systems, and graphic identities that are grounded in visual polish and thoughtful clarity. While interface, interactive, and product-related work are my primary focus, my visual background also extends into the realms of printed matter, editorial design, art direction, and analog forms of making. Aside from work, I enjoy exploring music, photography, and art in whatever ways I can. I love sharing really good music with my really good friends, keeping up a routine of calligraphing beautiful words, and building up my personal collections of vinyl records and vintage home objects.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I like staying inspired and curious as often as possible, which is quite easy when you’re surrounded by the most talented, inspiring, and kind friends. I also like exploring disciplines outside of design such as ikebana, DJing, and poetry to help inform my design work and interests.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

I recently just got the book ‘Design as an Attitude,’ which I’ll be reading soon, and I’m currently listening to anything by Blood Orange or Ryuchi Sakamoto.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD?

I look up to many people, both past and present. Just to name a few, I really enjoy the works of Irma Boom, Elana Schlenker, Tracy Ma, Chloe Scheffe, Alexis Jamet, Chia Amisola, Emily Liu, Molly Mielke, Mitsuo Katsui, Talia Cotton, and Tori Hinn.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

Design school has taught me the value of being resourceful. Through asking the right questions, connecting with the right people, or knowing the right places to get started, I’ve realized it’s never been easier to learn something.

JACKY LOCOCO

CARNEGIE MELLON SCHOOL OF DESIGN

Jacky Lococo is a junior, studying communication design with a passion for print design, illustration, and brand design. As a designer, she loves to create applicable, elegant, and risk-taking graphic design and interfaces. She enjoys taking on challenges that allow her to develop her design methods and perspectives on design. Being consistently inspired by crafting narratives, she loves to create immersive worlds and stories that audiences can enter into. Through classes and personal projects, she also enjoys experimenting with mediums, whether it be through motion graphics, photography, and 3D modeling. When she's not in the studio or buried in the Creative Suite, she can be found working on a crochet project or trying a new gluten-free baking recipe!

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I am often inspired by compelling stories as well as unique compositions in everyday life.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

I’ve been listening to Beyoncé’s Renaissance album quite a bit and watching the Great British Baking Show whenever I get the chance!

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD?

I really admire the work of Irma Boom!

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

I’ve learned how important the community of students and friends around you are to foster a creative process and culture. Together, our class navigated difficult times during COVID-19, and through the experience, we looked out for one another, helped each other, and tried to support each other. I find myself incredibly grateful that I am able to work, laugh, and interact with them every day.

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MARIYA DYDYK THE MODERN COLLEGE OF DESIGN

My name is Mariya Dydyk. I am a second-year student. Originally I came from Ukraine, where my passion for art started. I have always loved to draw and participated in many art contests. I came to America in 7th grade, where my life and goals changed. I fell in love with graphic design and decided to turn my passion into a career.

After February 24, 2022, my life changed again. I felt so much patriotism and pride for my native country because Ukrainians are strong in spirit and thirst for freedom. So, I started using my creative abilities to help volunteer organizations. Helping Ukraine inspires me and gives me the strength to continue my safe life far from my homeland. As a designer, I aim to become a strong storyteller and create beauty. Finally, I have strong views on life, where justice, equality, and love play crucial roles in our lives.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I feel inspired by my peers, instructors, friends, and Ukrainian people who fight for their identity. Also, the fantastic work of other graphic designers profoundly inspires me.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

I am listening to KOLA, a Ukrainian singer. I am rereading Breakfast at Tiffany's by Truman Capote. Also, I currently finished watching Enola Holmes on Netflix.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD?

I look up to Yurko Gutsulyak, who is a Ukrainian designer. He specializes in brand identity and packaging design. My favorite quote from him is, “Just as Ukrainian identity, Ukrainian graphic design experiences today a stage of its active development.”

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I want to specialize in branding and packaging design.

ROB KEEL

THE MODERN COLLEGE OF DESIGN

Hi, I'm Rob Keel, a fourth-year student. I found The Modern through a podcast, and this great school has helped me improve as a designer. I enjoy designing solutions that serve a functional purpose in a user's life. I found my love for UI/UX design at The Modern when figuring out how I fit into the design industry. I could always do branding projects in school and create different logos and graphics, but it never felt like I excelled at those areas of design. In the last semester of my associate degree, I was finally introduced to UI/UX. I immediately knew that this area of design was for me. I would describe myself as a functional designer. You likely won't find me illustrating or tackling large Photoshop projects. Instead, my strengths lie in solving problems with practical solutions that aim to improve overall user experience.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I feel inspired when I read and listen to other designers talk about their process and the decisions they make during a project.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

Currently, I am listening to a lot of podcasts. I love the Overly Human podcast. I am also a big Ted Lasso fan and am waiting for the next season to come out.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD?

Leah Henderson and Chris Beach have had a major impact on me as a designer. Their approach to UX and teaching has pushed me to become a better designer.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I want to work as a UI/UX designer in tech or consulting.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

Design school has taught me how important empathy is in the design process.

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MARIA JOSE NUNEZ BONEQUI SESSIONS COLLEGE FOR PROFESSIONAL DESIGN

Maria Jose Nunez Bonequi is a digital artist from Mexico City but currently lives in North Carolina. Her passion for art started a long time ago when she was just a little girl, her grandmother used to make handmade decorations and paintings and introduced Maria to the art world. It wasn’t until she was 12 that she decided to take art more seriously and took several art classes during middle school when she moved to Argentina. Years later she was determined to become a professional digital artist and moved to the United States to pursue her dream and enrolled in Sessions College.

Maria is currently registered for an Associate Degree in Illustration and is about to graduate this upcoming spring of 2023. Her favorite medium is digital art, she specializes in Illustrator and Procreate but she also masters traditional mediums like watercolors, acrylics, and ink. Her plans after graduation are to start her career as a freelance illustrator that focuses merely on comic books, children’s books, and background illustrations. However, she is also planning on creating a comic book or an animated show of her own!

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I think I take a lot of inspiration from my heritage, my art has been influenced a lot by Aztec and Mayan cultures. Their legends, their gods, their traditions . . . all of them are so unique and my art is directly, and indirectly, influenced by them.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

I am currently reading the Popol Vuh, a book that contains several Mayan texts, listening to the album Trench by Twenty One Pilots, and watching Pinocchio by Guillermo del Toro.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD?

Someone I look up to is the concept artist Mary Blair, she worked in several Disney classics like Alice in Wonderland and Cinderella. The way she transmitted mood through her artworks is simply mesmerizing.

MICKY JORDAN

SESSIONS COLLEGE FOR PROFESSIONAL DESIGN

Micky Jordan is a Black Southerner transmasculine and queer graphic designer born in Florida but currently lives in Durham, NC.

Micky has spent the ten years developing and growing my graphic design and communications skills with organizations and campaigns that are intersectional and justice-oriented: through his current role as a Junior Graphic Designer at National Domestic Workers Alliance (NDWA), his 7-year relationship with Southerners on New Ground (SONG) from Organizing Fellow to Communications Director; as the graphic designer for Nicole Townsend’s Asheville City Council run; and as an instructor for Social Movement Technologies (SMT)’s Graphic Design Apprenticeship for Organizers in 2019 and 2021. In his free time, he hosts a podcast called Taking TV Too Seriously with his co-host Michelle and enjoys hanging out with his friends and dog, Jolene. Website: mickyjordan.com

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I find inspiration in so many places! Whether it's from perusing book covers at stores, reading/looking at art books, going to museums and looking at design and art on social media, social change and protest art, or my new hobby, board games, I like to take in art from anywhere whenever it speaks to me. I love seeing how art and design can tell stories to their audiences in different ways.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

I watch SO many tv shows and movies. I have been watching a lot of dating reality shows like Love is Blind and Too Hot to Handle. I also love The White Lotus and Ru Paul’s Drag Race and just finished season two recently! I’m usually listening to podcasts like Why Won’t You Date Me, Best Friends, and Drag Her, and I’m currently playing SZA’s new album SOS over and over.

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MATTHEW BRODSKY

SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY

NEWHOUSE SCHOOL OF PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS

I grew up in Chicago, where my interest in graphic design started. In high school, I created commissioned sneaker-themed artwork for friends and family. Since then, my love of graphic design has only grown as I’ve broadened my skills to include the universe of visual media, such as storytelling, typography, UI/UX, immersive design, and motion design. Creating graphic artwork for the sports and entertainment industry has been my passion. My artwork was recently showcased at the 2022 Design Core Sneaker House art exhibit, presented by Footlocker in Detroit. In addition, I’m collaborating with my UI/UX professor at Syracuse, along with another founder, to create Soleless, a trading card brand that creates virtual and physical user experiences. I design all artwork, products, and augmented reality experiences, such as Snapchat lenses for the brand. I am a passionate and curious designer who is eager to gain any opportunity to learn a new design technique or software.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I am often most inspired by the experiences of those closest to me. The stories and backgrounds of my family and friends provide amazing narratives for design. These interactions spark creativity as well as motivation to get better and better. I am also inspired by the support I get from mentors, especially my professors at Syracuse, as I test the boundaries of graphic design. I am thankful to have a network of such inspiring people who share an appreciation for the results of my hard work.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

Lately, I have been listening to a lot of podcasts. I like listening to podcasts about design, technology, history, sports, and comedy. I always want to learn more and understand the world better. I also often listen to music, specifically, from artists primarily from Chicago.

NATALIA DENG YUAN

SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY

NEWHOUSE SCHOOL OF PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS

Heyo! I'm Natalia Deng Yuan, a senior pursuing my BS in Graphic Design at Syracuse University. My design work is driven by play through UI/UX design, motion design, immersive design, typography design, pigeons, and chickens! I started off 2023 attending MIT Reality Hack, where my team won the Effect House AR Short Film Festival track. My teammates and I created 16 TikTok effect filters in under 48 hours. Through this hackathon experience, I am looking to pursue a career in XR and UI/UX design. Nonetheless, as someone who knows six languages, I am hoping to continue to combine my multilingual skills with design to help more people.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Designing for good purposes that make people happy inspires me to create more for others. I love it when design help and connects communities together.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

I am currently watching people on TikTok using one of the filters I created during the hackathon; trying to understand how a simple filter of pigeons flying went viral.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

In high school, I learned that words are powerful, but in college, I learned that by combining words and visuals, the impact is even more powerful. Visuals can reach wider audiences; whether they can understand the language or not, the visuals can still communicate to a certain degree and evoke emotions.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD?

EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

That got to be Don Allen Stevenson, who’s pioneering the future of XR. He shares his insight and experiments of XR, Ai, and web3 with creativity on the internet.

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IYA ABDULKARIM

UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN

Iya Abdulkarim is a designer, biologist, and incoming medical student. She earned her B.A. in Biology magna cum laude with Departmental Distinction from St. Olaf College and is a Texas Design in Health Distinguished Student Scholar at the University of Texas at Austin. She is pursuing an M.A. in Design focused on Health and anticipates leveraging her knowledge and experience in design throughout her medical training and practice. As a passionate interdisciplinary innovator, she finds great joy in drawing the connections between seemingly disparate fields and ideas. She also enjoys drawing on paper, digitally, or whatever medium lies within arms reach when inspiration strikes.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Many things! Off the top of my head, I find the undeniable examples of design in the human body to be incredibly inspiring. Anatomical artwork in particular leaves me in a state of awe, ruminating on both the frailty and strength of the human body which requires nothing short of a miracle to function daily.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

I am currently reading Heart: A History by Sandeep Jauhar, and listening to the Heartwork podcast by Qalam Institute. Clearly there is a theme here . . . I keep curiosity and creativity at the heart of my pursuits, within and beyond the classroom.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD?

Fully entering the field of design as a graduate student means I have learned a great deal from some incredible designers across sectors. I look up to the faculty I have studied under in the M.A. in Design focused on Health program.

LIBBY RIDDELL

UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN

Libby is a multidisciplinary designer living in Austin, TX where she is pursuing an MFA in design. She has a background in interior design, and a strong interest in creating a more equitable experience through the built environment. Her thesis investigates design enabled harm and focuses on ethics in design and design responsibility. When she is not in class, she loves biking, paddle boarding, traveling, and walking with her dog, Tito.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Chatting with others, designers, and non-designers alike. I always feel more inspired when working in a group than I do alone.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

Reading: The Firekeeper's Daughter

Listening to: Armchair Expert

Watching: The Mindy Project

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD?

I love the work of Tatiana Bilbao.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I hope to work in design research and design strategy. I would love to work as a design researcher within the social impact design space.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

Design is so expansive and goes beyond what we consider the traditionally accepted disciplines. It has really made me question how we determine who gets to call themselves a designer and who does not.

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SAM GRIMM

RINGLING COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN

Sam Grimm is a senior majoring in Graphic Design and minoring in the Business of Art and Design. Growing up she was always drawn towards art and design but it was not until she had already started her college education when she discovered graphic design as a career. This ignited a new journey fueled by passion that has led her to where she is today. Her love for the design process and ability to fuse design with strategy brings her projects to life with the intention to invoke thought and action. She has found that finding the reason people care is the core to successful design and she strives to reach the core every time.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I find my inspiration all around me but especially in nature. There is nothing like going outside and experiencing all the textures, smells, and views nature has to offer.

FAVORITE MOVIE, TV SHOW, BOOK, AND/OR PODCAST?

I am always listening to Bad Bunny. His music never fails to put me in a good mood and get my creative juices flowing.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I truly enjoy all aspects of design and because of this I am hoping to work at an advertising agency where there are opportunities to work on a variety of projects after graduation.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

Your ability to speak to your work and articulate your thoughts is just as valuable as the quality of your design.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD? EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

I look up to Paula Scher. She is such an icon and has impacted the design industry and community in so many ways.

NICKELA WINFIELD

RINGLING COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN

My name is Nickela Winfield and I am a senior in Graphic Design with a minor in Business of Art and Design. I am from a small, country town in North Carolina. As you can imagine, there is not much to do or see. I learned about graphic design from a video on YouTube of an artist vectorizing a cheeseburger using Affinity Designer. Now, I look back and think about the day my life opened up. Who knew this graphic design thing existed? I didn’t know what I was getting myself into, but I was excited to learn more. I dove in and fell down the rabbit hole of watching design tutorials. I decided that night that graphic design was something I wanted to do for the rest of my life. From there, I researched many colleges but decided after a visit during Accepted Student Day that Ringling College was the perfect choice for me. Now that I am in my final semester, I can confidently say I made the right choice. I have learned so much about presenting work, making intentional design decisions, and using emotion to help tell the story.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I feel inspired knowing that learning never ends. I can always watch a video tutorial or talk to one of my classmates and learn more. There is always something to do, questions to ask, ideas to realize, and challenges to conquer.

FAVORITE MOVIE, TV SHOW, BOOK, AND/OR PODCAST?

I am reading The Black Experience in Design: Identity, Expression, & Reflection. I am listening to Flume's album Palaces and Beyonce’s album Renaissance. My Spotify Wrapped was pretty insane, and I am watching Kaleidoscope on Netflix.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

There are many ways to use design to create a more accessible and diverse world. So, I’m hoping to work in the areas of branding and accessible packaging design.

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ISABELLE HOLLANDER

UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TEXAS

While growing up, I always had a crayon in one hand and paper in the other. The sights, sounds, smells, and feelings associated with drawing always had a way of calming me. The drawing was my escape and where I felt the happiest, so it was where I directed my energy. From then, I knew I always wanted to pursue an art career. It was not until I started researching majors for college that I discovered design. As I complete my degree in communication design with a double minor in art history and metalsmithing, I know I made the right decision. I love to find new ways to communicate ideas using illustration and bold aesthetics. When I am not designing, I can be found at home drawing with a good show in the background and surrounded by lots of snacks.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I feel inspired when I am engrossed in the design community. Being able to brainstorm, critique and show work with others pushes me to keep designing.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I would love to specialize in package design and illustration. I love creating unique imagery that grabs people’s attention. The idea of my designs in someone's home being used in their everyday life is exciting.

WHAT IS ONE THING YOUR TIME IN DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DIDN’T EXPECT?

I did not expect to learn about breaking down letter forms into simple shapes to help determine which shapes would suit a project better. Applying this technique to any project creates cohesiveness.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

I have been listening to Six the Musical and the Hunchback of Notre Dame soundtrack all year. The power behind the vocals and the impeccable storytelling energizes me whenever I need an uplifting moment.

MARIANGELIS PAGAN

UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TEXAS

Mariangelis is a senior undergraduate student at the UNT pursuing a BFA in Communication Design. She is shaped by her HispanicCaribbean roots, American experiences, and multiple international trips. She is passionate about creating sophisticated and evocative visuals that bring solutions to life and tell a meaningful captivating story. She comes from a fine art background and her preferred choice of mediums are pencil and oil painting. Her work often draws on inspiration from historic styles that guide a unique approach to a modern project. Mariangelis’ mission is to bring a level of sophistication to every project. When Mariangelis is not busy designing, you'll most likely find her watching one of her many favorite period dramas while her two dachshunds beg for pets.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I am inspired by the life that I dreamed of having since I was little, personal growth and exploration, and experiencing new things.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I have always had the desire to work in Hospitality, Packaging, Spirit Packaging, and Luxury branding. I like to browse the liquor aisles and faun over the design. I aspire to one day have one of my designs sitting on those shelves.

WHAT IS ONE THING YOUR TIME IN DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DIDN’T EXPECT?

Something I learned that I did not expect, is that as much as school is about you, growing your skills as a designer, it's also about pushing yourself and learning who you are as a person.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

I have a Florence, Hozier, and Aurora playlist that I'm always listening to. I’m a big fan of period dramas, and the one I'm currently watching is “All Creatures Great and Small" by PBS Masterpiece.

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NINA PEREZ

SCHOOL OF THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO (SAIC)

Nina Perez (she/her) is a Chicago-based graphic designer pursuing a bachelor of fine arts with a focus in Visual Communication Design. Her design practice integrates hand-driven elements and analog processes with digital materials, and often aims to understand the power of design to author and re-contextualize popular historical narratives to incite dialogue and critical engagement. She was placed among the top 10 percent of bachelor of fine arts applicants in 2018, is a Distinguished Artist Scholar at SAIC, and was a 2022 finalist for the Justyna Palka Memorial Scholarship. She has exhibited work at the Oak Park Art League, the Gene Siskel Film Center, the Siragusa Gallery, and Side Street Studio Arts in Elgin among organizations and institutions. She continues to explore the capacity of design to act as a meaningful praxis toward social engagement through collaborative work with community partners and other emerging artists and designers. She has also worked professionally in-house as a web/ecomm focus designer at CB2 | Crate & Barrel, and has freelanced with Boston-based design studios Colossus Creative Co. and A&Co., as well as other small businesses and local nonprofit organizations.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Within my design practice, I’m often most inspired by good stories — I think design in its essence is a sort of visual storytelling, and having powerful stories to tell often feels like the most empowering thing to have in your toolbelt as a designer.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

Professionally, I am hoping to continue developing a broad and diverse design portfolio that spans a wide range of disciplines from brand identity and packaging to web design and motion graphics, although I am also hoping to continue a personal print-based design practice. I have fallen in love with Risography during my time at SAIC and I would love to continue that work moving forward, even if it’s just for myself.

MAX WEISS

SCHOOL OF THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO (SAIC)

Max Weiss, the individual behind the public-facing project Forge and Format, is a designer and artist who is based in the city of Chicago. His undergraduate study at SAIC has allowed him to infuse traditional design training with fine art practices, leading to a diverse portfolio that encompasses everything from publications to electronic sculpture. Despite this creative breadth, Max believes that design principles lie at the core of any successful project regardless of medium.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Learning how to use new tools — whether they be part of a physical process (i.e., laser cutting) or the latest wave of software — always results in a fresh wave of ideas for me to explore and integrate into my existing practice.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

Historically I have been drawn to iconography, visual identity, and type design, but I have yet to engage the latter beyond some logotypes and rudimentary hand lettering. That is what I would like to devote my attention to next.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

The guidance and experience offered by professors — or anyone else in the industry — should be duly noted, but it is ultimately up to the individual to take an approach that makes the most sense to them in the context of any problem they are presented with. There is no explicit or universally-applicable solution that can be instructed.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/ WATCHING?

I listen to a lot of music while I work, but some of my favorite albums as of late are False Idol by Veil of Maya, Artificial Void by Unprocessed, and Dead End Kings by Katatonia. I’m especially looking forward to more tracks from Time, The Valuator as the band gains its footing again.

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MARCUS DJUHADI UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI

Marcus Djuhadi is a senior studying Communication Design at the University of Cincinnati DAAP. He envisions opportunities to enrich people's lives through meaningful interactions with digital products, services, and brands. Energized by collaboration, he loves building a deep understanding of others and honoring their voices to craft solutions. Recently, he's been curious about the role of narrative in design, experimenting with generative methods to amplify stories worth sharing.

Beyond the studio, Marcus helps lead his school's Design for America chapter through strategic initiatives benefiting the Cincinnati community. This passion for design innovation has taken him across the country, where he's worked with the brilliant teams at Punchcut, WeWork, Grand Studio, Evolve Collaborative, and Relish Works. In his free time, he enjoys tap dancing, throwing clay on pottery wheels, and hosting the ultimate game night.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I feel most inspired when I step away from the screen and into the kitchen to test recipes. Currently, I'm investigating new flavor combinations for pies!

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

Innovation strategy, product design, service design

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

Perfection is the enemy of progress. Through school, I've grown comfortable with learning through scrappy prototypes, navigating ambiguity, and making decisions.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

I'll never get tired of listening to The Moth Radio Hour podcast or Maude Latour's discography.

EDDIE LOUGHRAN UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI

Eddie Loughran is a designer from the outskirts of Chicago. He is currently completing his BS in Communications Design at UC. As a designer, Eddie values the impact that both type and imagery have on storytelling. He’s most known for his bold use of typography and colorful image manipulation, specializing in Photoshop and Illustrator with a passion for emerging technologies. In his free time, he can be found watching spooky movies or working on his ongoing self-initiated poster series.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Outsider artists, alternate/rejected design concepts, the Pinterest algorithm, plunderphonic music, nostalgia, pulp horror movies, and that elusive “ah-ha” design moment happening at two in the morning.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I’ve always viewed myself as a storyteller first and foremost. I’m comfortable playing around with any medium that I believe will help best communicate a creative vision. After graduation, I plan to work at Empire Design, specializing in film and tv marketing.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

Aside from just general time management skills, I found a lot of value in how open-ended projects often were. I always sought to go above and beyond what project briefs were asking, which always led to me developing a concept that I was very passionate about. In hindsight, this freedom of expression has been what encouraged me to develop my own look and feel, and subsequently what kick started my career.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD? EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

Historically, the designers I’ve drawn the most inspiration from are Tibor Kalman and Katsuhiro Otomo. In my personal work, I find myself frequently referencing the great polish designers Franciszek Starowieyski and Jakub Erol.

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CASEY LITCHFIELD PORTLAND STATE UNIVERSITY

Casey Litchfield is a Senior in the Graphic Design program. Born and raised in Milwaukie, Oregon, Casey was always surrounded by creative energy. Growing up Casey always had a fascination with science and art, and this fascination only grew over time. As a designer, Casey enjoys exploring the intersection between science and design, while also mixing in his experience as a queer individual. His work aims to tackle abstract concepts and provide them with a new perspective. Bright and playful energy runs through his design work, with a constant focus on engaging viewers, and providing new insights to them. As Casey’s journey begins to close at Portland State University, he hopes to continue on his path of science and design, while constantly pushing himself to see new possibilities.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I am constantly inspired and in awe of the structure and systems of nature and our planet! We as humans have learned to live and create our own vision from these pre-existing organisms and environments, and our ability to create such visions is truly extraordinary to me.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

How crucial research is to a project. By digging as deep as possible into a subject, you begin to understand it in a different light, and that is where you really find the gold.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD?

EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

The first designer who really left an impact on me early on in my days of design school was Jessica Hische. Seeing the way she crafted her career, and how she approaches her work was very inspiring to me, and allowed me to see the possibilities of a career in design!

ISABELLA MEDINA

PORTLAND STATE UNIVERSITY

Isabella Medina is a designer, student and nanny currently living in Portland, Oregon. With interests shaped by her identity as a gay Colombian-American, Isabella came to graphic design through Portland Community College, via portrait photography and small town-magazine layout, and stayed for the friendships and fonts. She’s currently practicing type making, pattern design, and hosting a local creative event series through a project called Snack Time. Some of her favorite projects so far include a screen-printed poster series for a recently passed Oregon gun safety measure, and illustrations to promote endometriosis awareness, after fighting her own uterus while in school.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I’m inspired when I see people with cool tattoos, public libraries, giant hand-painted signs, janitors, 14th century gothic scripts, and color palettes derived from shaved ice flavors. And most deeply, snacks.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I would love to make motion graphics and drawings that help explain tricky things in a fun way.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

Learning After Effects IS possible even though the buttons are made for ants.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD? EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

I love Kate Bingaman-Burt for her boundless energy to create, share, explore ideas, and make little pencils out of air-dry-clay.

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PAIGE ALANA BOWERMASTER

PENNSYLVANIA COLLEGE OF ART & DESIGN

Paige Alana Bowermaster is a Graphic Design senior at PCA&D in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Paige grew up creating artwork, becoming serious about it when she was 10 years old. During her foundation year of college, she attended a graphic design department meeting and was instantly hooked. She was a founding member of The Agency, the College’s in-house branding and marketing program, where she took on several leadership roles. Her most recent accomplishments include creating and designing the America250PA coloring book, which was distributed to the state’s schoolchildren. She also won the 2023 PCA&D Senior Show & Celebration Branding Competition, designing the signature branding for the annual thesis show. Paige is a passionate designer and constantly pushes herself to see what she can design next to surpass her previous work. When Paige isn’t creating you can find her riding her horse, Jessie, hanging out with her cat, Molly, or driving around town with her friends.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Inspiration comes from many things. Mine, I would say, comes from music, artists of the past, the human mind, and the simplicity of just creating and doing what I love.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I am hoping to work in design jobs that allow me to create with a purpose. I am passionate about brand design, publication design, advertising, and packaging. At the end of the day designing in any sense is rewarding in itself.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

Design school has taught me how to succeed with grace, and that where you come from, or your past design experience, is not a detriment to the capabilities you possess if you're willing to work harder than everyone else in the room.

TYLER HANDA

PENNSYLVANIA COLLEGE OF ART & DESIGN

Tyler Handa is a graphic designer and illustrator from Levittown, PA. A dedicated, hardworking, and ambitious artist, he has a passion for creating and a talent for award-winning design. A senior at PCA&D pursuing a BFA in Graphic Design, Tyler was a founding member of the college’s in-house design firm, The Agency. He loves customizing fonts, using bright and bold colors, and illustrating fun characters. A kid at heart, he is working toward his dream of being paid to do what he loves. His interests outside of art and design include watching football, listening to a wide variety of music, and building Legos.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I’m really inspired by music and movies. Also, I’m inspired by designers such as Abi Connick, Michael Irwin, James Martin, and Allan Peters.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

After I graduate, I hope to specialize in brand identity, packaging, and type design.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

One thing I learned in my college experience that I didn’t expect was how to be resilient.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD?

There are a lot of people I look up to in my field, but Rosita Mullane, my high school commercial art teacher, has been a big part of my life and I really admire her.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

Currently, I’m reading House Industries Lettering Manual by Ken Barber, listening to Walk the Moon, and watching Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

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SOPHIE BADDLEY BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY

Sophie Baddley is a senior Graphic Design BFA student. She loves art, insects, chairs, graffiti, colorful pens, mid-century architecture, and of course, design. She attributes this love for design to her background in ballet which allowed her to appreciate aesthetics and the value of hard work. With keen eye for detail, Sophie loves to look for things no one else seems to notice. She is passionate about conveying her unique style and incorporating meaning in creative ways and is always looking for new ways to experiment with her design skills. Last summer, Sophie interned at e.l.f. Cosmetics in New York City, and is determined to return back to New York. When Sophie isn’t designing her heart away, you can find her going rollerskating, skiing, thrifting, going on walks around town, or attempting to master new skills. She is enthusiastic about what her future holds, and cannot wait to dive deeper into the design world after graduating.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I gain much of my inspiration by observing the world for the bizarre and beautiful everywhere I go.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

As an undergraduate student, the options are endless, but I have a deep inclination toward branding, publication, and digital design, all of which I have been able to experience while in school and in previous occupations.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

I have learned that it is just as important to do things that seemingly have nothing to do with design as it is to design. I have been taught to “fill the [creative] well” by closing my computer, putting down my sketchbook, and doing anything but design.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD? EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

I very much admire graphic designer Paula Scher as well as Linda Reynolds, whom I took my first design course from.

ABIGAIL WHITE

BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY

Abigail White is a graphic designer and illustrator from San Antonio, Texas. She is currently completing her BFA in Graphic Design, where she has become especially interested in branding and packaging design. From a young age, Abigail spent many hours as a child drawing and dreaming of one day making beautiful things for a living. Once she got to college, studying graphic design felt like the perfect way to combine her interests in media, visual art, and creative problem-solving. She enjoys creating joyful, colorful designs and is always trying to find ways to incorporate illustration into her work. In 2022, Abigail interned with Authentic Brands Group. After college, she hopes to return to New York to pursue a career in design. You can usually find Abigail at the movies or browsing antique stores for new inspiration when she’s not designing.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Over the past few years, I’ve started collecting lots of vintage ephemera, and I love finding unique things on old postcards, prints, and magazines. I’m also constantly inspired by films, particularly ones with incredible design, like Emma (2020) or anything by Wes Anderson.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

My goal is to find a career in branding or packaging design after I graduate. I love the creative challenges that come with packaging design, and seeing all the pieces of a brand really come together feels so fulfilling.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

One thing I didn’t expect to gain from studying design was a sense that I belonged in the design field. Before getting accepted into the Graphic Design BFA, I felt so unsure of myself and my abilities, but the mentorship I've received from my professors and the friends I've made in my program has made me a more confident designer.

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CATHERINE JOHNSON AUBURN UNIVERSITY

Catherine Amelia Johnson is a designer, illustrator, and animator with a BFA in Graphic Design. During her time at Auburn, she has worked alongside brands such as Febreeze, Starbucks, P&G, and others through internships while receiving recognition from organizations such as the UCDA, Creative Quarterly, GDUSA, and more. Catherine is motivated as a designer to explore new possibilities, aiming to create imaginative stories with engaging design solutions. She is excited to begin her career and looking forward to continue growing as a designer. Her work can be found at catherinejohnsondesign.com

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Everything! I’m always looking around to find inspiration in little day-today things.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

The thing I love most about design is how versatile it is. I love having the ability to story tell in many different ways and hope I can continue growing across all avenues of design.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

How to camp out in the studio on game day weekends.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD?

EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

My classmates. I think I’ve been really lucky to be surrounded by really talented people and their work has inspired and encouraged me a lot.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

I just started reading A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara and am always watching and rewatching Adventure Time.

CREIGHTON SCHLUTER AUBURN UNIVERSITY

Creighton Schluter is a senior from Houston, TX. She will be graduating May 2023 with a BFA in Graphic Design. Creighton loves all things design, plants, reading, and hanging out with friends. During her time at Auburn, Creighton has balanced studio classes while serving on the exec team for the CADC Ambassadors, working at the Auburn Alumni Association as a Student Graphic Designer, and designing for 3 different Student Government Campaigns on campus. As a student, Creighton has received recognition from Auburn’s Graphic Design Student Juried show, has had 4 pieces of work featured in the Auburn Circle Magazine, has been named on the Dean’s list for 7 semesters, and was nominated to serve as the student representative on the search committee for a new school head for Auburn’s School of Industrial and Graphic Design. You can find her portfolio at www.creightonschluter.com

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I find inspiration through talking with my peers and digging deep into topics that I am designing for. Research is an important part of my design process and learning how to make something better and different continues to inspire me.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

Design school has taught me that iterations of ideas is what makes a project great. Without tweaking and changing a logo design or type treatment many times, you will never find the best version of your design.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

I really enjoy watching and listening to the other live streams Adobe has to offer. When I’m not designing, you can find me reading through all the books of Reese Witherspoon’s Book Club.

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HAILIANNE SCHAWO

KANSAS CITY ART INSTITUTE (KCAI)

Hailianne is an interaction and motion designer currently pursuing a BFA at KCAI. She is originally from Chicago, Illinois where she found a love for visual effects. Studying visual effects at Columbia College Chicago sparked a curiosity for augmenting the real world. She now designs experiences utilizing the intersection of technology, art, and storytelling. Her practice focuses on playful exploration of technology and the way in which people interact with the world around them. She employs creative and technological tools such as augmented and virtual reality, programming, arduino, DIY electronics and motion graphics. Hailianne is passionate about discovering ways technology can bring a sense of wonder to the world and always welcomes new challenges.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I take great pride and joy in creating experiences that carry an emotional impact. It’s not simply about the tangible object or experience, rather the emotion and story that is embodied within.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

At the core I want to create immersive experiences that are meaningful and impactful. Ideally I will be constantly learning and experimenting with cutting-edge technology that will allow for ever more impactful storytelling.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

Design is at the root of everything and far more expansive than I ever imagined. For me, diverse skills from motion design, visual effects, and even engineering hardware and programming all have a place under the design umbrella. These can all be leveraged to create amazing things.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

I’m currently watching Westworld.

REBECCA WAGNER

KANSAS CITY ART INSTITUTE (KCAI)

Born and raised in America’s heartland (Iowa), Rebecca Wagner knew for a long time that her career path would take a creative direction. Now, she’s a senior studying Graphic Design at KCAI and honing her skills at print design, exhibition design, branding, and writing. Her journey has given her an immense love for the technical aspects of design and production. And, though her laptop is practically attached to her body, she still finds time to develop her IRL fine art skills through illustration and painting.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

The fact that the world will never run out of new perspectives and new stories to tell.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

Event and exhibition design feel like exciting avenues to explore. I love the idea of design taking over and transforming the spaces it lives in; a testament to the power of creative expression.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

Being a designer is also being a showman. By that I mean: a really nice, polished, clear-cut presentation can be one of the best advocates for your project or idea. It shows a degree of care and consideration towards the audience that’s so important for building connections. A subtle—but powerful—skill.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD? EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

Aaron Horkey. His work has those hardcore levels of craftsmanship and skill you can’t help but admire.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

I’m a huge horror fan! I recently watched The Boxer’s Omen (1983) and I would definitely recommend it—if you’ve got a strong stomach. Knifepoint Horror is easily one of my favorite supernatural thriller podcasts. And as for books, I’m reading The Wolfen by Whitley Strieber.

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EDWIN CASTILLO

FASHION INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (FIT)

Edwin Castillo is a first-generation, Mexican-American graphic designer based in NYC. Currently a senior at FIT in the BFA Graphic Design program, where he integrates the intersections of his identity in his work. A constant goal for Edwin is to create for those like him, to make the representation that is missing in today's media. With a background in illustration and an interest in 3D animation, he has made graphics for the NYC LGBTQ+ club scene as well as merchandise for the Chinese 9Man volleyball community. Both underserved but expansive communities with complex histories tied to identity and community. Edwin believes that design should be approachable, fun, and a reflection of one's principles and aesthetics; to create without boundaries but also with open communication. Edwincastillonyc.com

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

The small, the overlooked, the design that is not considered “design”. Those are choices not impacted by trends but by necessity.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I plan to specialize at the intersection of branding and 3D animation. The combination of the two provides a new medium to explore design language.

WHAT IS ONE THING YOUR TIME IN DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DIDN’T EXPECT?

Design school has taught me to be hungry for more and look beyond what’s in front of me.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD?

EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

Phillip Kim is a Korean graphic designer based in LA that never fails to push the boundaries of design and integrate his own aesthetic.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

Wish by Blood Orange and Wing Wing by HYUKOH.

FLIES FLY

FASHION INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (FIT)

Flies Fly is a four-person group consisting of designers from different parts of the United States, their name derives from letfliesfly, the nickname of FIT’s GD program. Chloe, Lauren, Jordan, and Justin are now in their final semester, meeting each other at the start of the 2-year BFA program. They are exceptional designers and even better friends. Despite working on mostly individual projects throughout their academic career, they work together in a rhythm that is both harmonious and discordant. They bounce crazy ideas off each other, and constantly question and push one another to higher levels of design. Each member of the team brings a different skill set to the group. Justin is the “tech-guy.” Lauren is the “radical-typographer.” Chloe is the “graphic-poet.” Jordan is the “mixed-media-magician.”

See them through their work:

Chloe: chloedelosreyes.com

Jordan: jordanrushdesigns.com

Justin: justinvaldez.com

Lauren: laurensalernodesign.com

Four soon to be graduates with a shared dream of working together after school. Together they are Flies Fly.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

We are inspired by the work of our peers and the works of others outside our field. Our latest inspiration was a furniture piece made out of fruit by Frank Jacobus.

WHAT IS ONE THING YOUR TIME IN DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DIDN’TEXPECT?

Design isn’t that serious. We have learned that graphic design is a playground for our minds to fly in any direction.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

We all put our attention on various platforms. Collectively we look at projects by Pentagram. Among other things, one of us may be watching Friends, reading Re-Printed Matter by Karel Martens, or listening to our shared Spotify playlist.

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RICK HEFFNER

VERMONT COLLEGE OF FINE ARTS (VCFA)

Rick began his career at one of D.C.’s premiere design firms, Supon Design Group. He then moved on to be an initial member of the design team for Discovery Communications as Senior Design Manager designing and art directing collateral for Discovery Channel, TLC, and Animal Planet. Thirsting for an opportunity to apply his skills to a wider array of clients, in 1996 he started his own design studio, Fuszion. Building from his entertainment background, the studio was soon a national player and would quickly find its way into the advocacy, conservation, museum, and consumer packaging arenas as well.

Rick and his firm, Fuszion, provide creative services and design consultation for clients that include the Smithsonian, National Geographic, World Wildlife Fund, Ocean Conservancy, National Parks Conservation Association, HGTV, FOX, The Nature Conservancy, Hasbro, National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), PBS, Georgetown Business Improvement District, United Negro College Fund (UNCF), and Pepsi-Cola.

Rick is an Assistant Professor of Graphic Design at George Mason University's School of Art in Fairfax, VA, and is a 2023 candidate for MFA in Graphic Design at VCFA.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Currently, my entire focus is on my thesis. I’m inspired by queer history that I was never exposed to while growing up. I’m inspired by those who said “enough is enough.” By those who held “kiss-ins,” or “sip-ins.” By those who marched, sacrificed, advocated for the LGBTQ rights we have today.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I’m still very hands-on in my professional design practice of 27 years, but have recently pivoted into academia. I will continue my research and archive of queer history, making it accessible to all.

KYLA PAOLUCCI

VERMONT COLLEGE OF FINE ARTS (VCFA)

Kyla is a graphic designer based in New York City. She received her undergraduate degree from Rhode Island School of Design and has worked for companies including World Wrestling Entertainment and HBO. After spending years designing on-demand aesthetic formulas for specific audiences, she has become interested in reconstructing her design practice to make space for more critical approaches. As a design educator at St. John’s University, she encourages students to define their own approach to design through durational making and experimentation. Raised by a cast ensemble of fierce Italian Americans, she believes that design is like a Sunday dinner — a labor of love and care that transcends commercial placements. She will always make room for dessert.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Inspiration tends to strike when I'm shopping for vegetables at the grocery store, reading a book outside of my studies, watching TV, or going out to dinner with friends. It always helps to exchange ideas with peers, view and read about new work, and find time to get my ideas onto paper.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I'm currently redefining what my practice looks like along with helping students shape their own. The field is plentiful: I'm interested in designing identities, exploring type design, and working alongside product designers to create thoughtful digital experiences.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

Going back to design school was transformative. Our abilities are expansive and, often, the person who needs to understand what's behind your work the most is yourself.

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HEMANI KAPOOR DREXEL UNIVERSITY

Hemani Kapoor is a senior pursuing a B.S. in Graphic Design and minors in Marketing and Art History at Drexel University. During her co-op, Hemani worked at Penn Arts & Sciences at the University of Pennsylvania and returned to work as a designer part-time. Hemani is passionate about challenging herself to experiment with a range of mediums and design techniques. She is excited to see where design will take her and can’t wait to continue learning new things.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Live music, movies. I love seeing how people in other disciplines tell stories — I try to bring that back into my design.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I’m hoping to work in branding.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

That learning to become a designer would forever change the way I see the world around me. I definitely wouldn’t go back, though!

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD?

EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

I find Herb Lubalin’s contributions to the design field to be very inspiring.

WHAT ARE YOU READING, LISTENING TO, WATCHING?

My 2022 Spotify Wrapped playlist is currently on repeat

FIONA TRAN DREXEL UNIVERSITY

Fiona Tran is a Vietnamese-American graphic designer specializing in branding, illustration, and digital mixed media. She is finishing off her studies at Drexel University with a BS in Graphic Design to pursue her dreams of owning a design studio one day. At a young age, her love for art and design was just a hobby, but now it has become her passion as she strives to create works to inspire, inform, and motivate others. Fiona considers herself a curious learner, willing to experiment with the materials and resources surrounding her. She integrates bright colors and bold types into unfamiliar environments to enhance stories and highlight identities. Fiona continues to explore her artistic ability by challenging herself to develop new skills and learn what it takes to become a designer. In her free time, she enjoys thrifting, reading webtoons, and binge-watching shows.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Growing up in a tight knit family, I learned to support others when they are in need. Fostering community is important and my interactions with others allow me to navigate the possibilities of defining ideas and solutions.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I enjoy the process of designing a system to create unique storytelling experiences.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD? EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

Lauren Hom is someone who I really admire. She is a Detroit-based designer and hand-lettering artist who created passion projects which have transformed into a freelance business. She shares her knowledge of design as a professional career to help enhance the works of creatives and brands.

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ANGELA CHIARELLI WOODBURY UNIVERSITY

Angela Chiarelli is an American graphic designer and artist based in Los Angeles, California. As a designer, her work focuses on interactivity and mixing the analog and digital worlds. At Woodbury University, she was able to explore many areas of design. She soon fell in love with packaging and poster design, logo design, branding, and design for the entertainment industry. Angela’s passion for art also extends to her everyday life. Her hobbies include drawing, painting, sewing, digital sculpting, and animation. When she’s not obsessing over design, Angela enjoys traveling, collecting new experiences, and visiting marketplaces with friends. She can also be spotted at the local thrift store or at a Philz coffee shop.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I love art and design in all its forms, but recently I’ve found inspiration from creative collaboration, editorial photography, art history, and the imperfect minutiae of handmade objects.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I have a passion for branding and identity, so my goal is to create memorable marketing that would help give brands a personality.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

One thing that surprised me is the importance Woodbury placed on having a well-balanced and complete understanding of the business and how it relates to creativity, brand building, and working as a team with colleagues and clients.

EMMA EDWARDS WOODBURY UNIVERSITY

Emma Edwards is a graphic designer from central New Jersey working towards her BFA. As a child Emma would constantly see mundane objects and think, “That could look so much cooler.” Since then, she has been dedicated to thoughtfully designing and customizing as many aspects of life as possible to prove that some things aren't boring — they're just missing some pizzazz. Through her work, Emma strives to advocate for the voices of oppressed groups, specifically other queer women of color. Much of her work discusses complex topics such as racism and queer representation. She is attracted to design related to music, with a focus on print and photography. When Emma isn't doing design work or skateboarding, she's attempting to master the elusive art of knitting the perfect oversized sweater.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I love looking at anything that isn't related directly to graphic design. I can get very fixated on trying to be new and inventive, and sometimes looking at the amazing monolithic work of other designers only keeps me in that headspace. I love looking at work by people who make rugs, clothing, tattoos, jewelry, music, and anything else I enjoy. It puts me in a headspace where I'm not thinking about being a “creative competitor,” but another contributor the amalgamation of fascinating things out in the world.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I hope to specialize in print and photography, but I've recently found a lot of enjoyment in design related to music.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

Studying design has definitely taught me that even mistakes are helpful. Growing up, my teachers didn't tolerate making mistakes. However, design school has shown me that even mistakes or unsuccessful risktaking can push you into the right direction by showing you paths that don't work. I no longer feel as afraid to make a mistake because I know that even the wrong choices can lead you to the right one.

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LIZ CATON KENNESAW STATE UNIVERSITY

Liz Caton is originally from a small town in Pennsylvania. She moved to Atlanta eight years ago where she is receiving her BFA in Graphic Communications. With a creative yet analytical mind, she has a strong passion for typography and branding. She specializes in brand identity, UI & UX, print & digital design. Her main career goal is to provide design solutions that can impact a community.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Many things inspire me to be more creative every day. Some examples would be nature, the Golden Ratio, life experiences, dreams, and music.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I love creating marketing materials, logos, and strengthening brand identities. I hope to work with print and UI design.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

It taught me how much teamwork goes into graphic communications. It takes more than one person to execute a creative project efficiently.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD? EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

Jacqueline Casey is a Graphic Designer I am inspired by.

WHAT ARE YOU READING, LISTENING TO, WATCHING?

The books I tend to read are more Psychology based and pretty dark. Right now, I am reading We Carry Their Bones by Erin Kimmerle, And Sybil by Flora Rheta Schreiber. I listen to bands like Próxima Parada, String Cheese Incident, and Billy Strings. I am currently watching Ginny & Georgia, ID Discovery, and trash reality TV.

EDRIENNE ROCIO

KENNESAW STATE UNIVERSITY

The young Filipina girl organizes her dinosaurs for her mother to draw. While observing her mother, Edrienne decided to be bold and pick up a pencil mimicking her mother’s movements. Running to the father, her mother excitedly explains that their 3-year-old daughter is an artist. At the age of 3, on that day, Edrienne Rocio discovered her talent and continued developing her artistic skills over the years. Today, she is currently a Kennesaw Owl student getting her “Hoot” on the Graphic Communications Degree while working in the field as a Graphic Designer/Print Productionist at Minuteman Press Marietta. Her inspiration and creativity expands from her friends, family, and love of dinosaurs. A true night owl working, studying, designing and always improving is awakened every morning by the passions of others reminding her to keep going. The love of those dinosaurs have not changed as Edrienne finds peace creating art with “Ecko” the Gecko on her shoulder and “Sol” the furry pitbulla-saurs by her side.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Talking to all different types of people, hearing their stories and mindsets on things to create a visual of how they see the world.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I found a great interest within UX/UI Design mixing it in with Graphic Design and would love to work with Colleges, Social Media Platforms, or Merch Design (such as Loungefly, Disney, Boxlunch etc.)

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

Creating templates, layouts, and keeping the process sketches/ideas to help improve and create the final piece.

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ANIKA GASKA BALL STATE UNIVERSITY

Anika has wanted to be an artist for as long as she can remember. In middle school, she vividly recalls deciding to be a graphic designer. Now she is a senior at Ball State University majoring in Visual Communication and an intern at Young & Laramore. At Ball State, she has spent two semesters as a Team Lead for Studio 165+, the award-winning student-led design studio. To Anika, design combines her love of problem-solving and art. She enjoys making things that have a purpose, so seeing her designs in use is one of the most fulfilling aspects of the field. When she’s not in the design studio, you can find her in the kitchen. Anika loves to experiment with recipes and photograph food. One day, she would love to publish her own cookbook, producing everything from the recipes to the photography and layout. Anika is also a self-proclaimed “travel addict” because she grew up exploring new places with her family. She has been to 45 of the 50 states and has lived in 5. Her innate curiosity inspires her to continue to travel and explore new places.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I’m inspired by problems. Whether it’s a failed recipe, a ring stuck in a drain, or creating a compelling design, I want to understand the situation and find the best way to solve it.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I enjoy Branding and Advertising.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

The way you present your work is just as important as the work itself.

KYRA MORGAN BALL STATE UNIVERSITY

My name is Kyra Morgan, and I am a senior currently pursuing a BFA in Visual Communication. I was born in Southern California but raised in Noblesville, IN with my parents and my four siblings (in dead middle with two older brothers and two younger sisters). Having always enjoyed creating art when I was younger, I finally decided to declare my major in graphic design on the last day of my freshman orientation, and I haven't looked back since. When I'm not in front of the computer, I enjoy reading novels, shopping for records, and hunting for my next great thrift find.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Although looking at other examples of successful graphic design is always helpful when finding inspiration, I often feel the most inspired when I consume art outside of my chosen field, especially within movies and illustration.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

Logo design, branding, and typography design.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

I did not expect to be able to identify fonts out in the wild just off the top of my head.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD? EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

Annie Atkins and her superb work in the props design for movies and TV, especially in Wes Anderson films.

WHAT ARE YOU READING, LISTENING TO, WATCHING?

I'm almost always reading The Lord of the Rings, listening to either early shoegaze and dream pop bands like Cocteau Twins or Asobi Seksu, or indie rock/pop artists (Wolf Alice, Widowspeak, Yo La Tengo are some of my favorites). I'm either watching anime or a Youtube video essay about some show or movie that I may (or may not...) have seen.

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TARA ROSE O’CONNOR THOMAS JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY

Tara Rose O'Connor (she/her) is currently earning her B.S. in Visual Communications Design at Jefferson University in Philadelphia. She has always been creative, but a graphic design class piqued her interest in high school, and she hasn’t looked back since. Tara looks for every opportunity to develop as a designer and a thinker and this past spring, she studied design in Copenhagen, Denmark. She loves watching movies and tv, taking photos, hanging out with friends, and being introduced to new things. Tara dreams of traveling the world while pursuing a career in graphic design and photography.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Travel makes me feel inspired. Whether going to a local cafe, hiking outside, going to a museum, or traveling around the world, exposure to the world around me and unplugging from technology is what inspired me the most.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I want to specialize in branding. I love the branding process and building design systems, from the logo to the variety of brand touchpoints. I would love to work in a design firm with a diverse client roster.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

The importance of critique in the design process. Receiving critique and criticism is essential to my success as a visual communicator. I’ve learned to put my ego aside, show all my work, seek people's opinions, and learn to challenge my assumptions and bias in order to create my best design work.

ANYA RITTER

THOMAS JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY

Anya Ritter is currently a senior pursuing her B.S. in Visual Communication Design. She grew up in Willow Grove, PA where she was homeschooled through 9th grade. Homeschooling gave her a lot of freedom to be creative in her learning pursuits and turn many of her school assignments into art projects. This desire to bring art into every part of life led her to study graphic design. She loves how graphic design blends creativity and exploration with the technical and organizational side of design and typography. Anya especially enjoys print design and typography but is interested in motion design as our world continues to become a digital one. In her free time, you can find her hiking around the East Coast, working on a puzzle, or playing with her two kittens.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Being in nature, spotting historic graphic design and typography in the world, and motion graphics and typography.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

Currently, I especially enjoy print design, but I would love to learn more motion design and coding.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

I did not expect to learn so much about other topics through design research, but it’s something that I have really come to love about graphic design.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD?

EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

Recently I’ve been inspired by Site Ma, especially her interactive posters.

102 GDUSA 2023 | STUDENTS TO WATCH

HANDE DEGIRMENCI

COLUMBIA COLLEGE CHICAGO

Hande is a multidisciplinary designer with a strong background in the film and television industry. She has had the opportunity to work on several notable productions, including a Palme d'Or feature film and a Netflix mini-series, and has served as Art Director for the Istanbul International Film Festival for two years. Hande has also worked as a freelance designer, creating marketing materials for a range of companies. In her creative process, Hande often combines analog and digital techniques to achieve her desired outcomes, and she approaches her personal projects with an intuitive approach inspired by the human condition and fundamental emotions.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I'm inspired by the endless possibilities of visual storytelling and the ways in which it can be used to connect with people on a deeper level. In my personal projects, I often draw inspiration from my own emotions and experiences, as well as those of others, in an effort to create work that is relatable and thought-provoking.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

Experimentation and hands-on work are essential to my design process, allowing me to bring a unique perspective to my projects. My goal is to specialize in publication and typographic design, leveraging the power of print design to communicate ideas and emotions while staying current in the industry.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

I have learned that the design process, from initial research to ﬁnal touches, is crucial to the success of a project and has greatly impacted my approach to work, emphasizing purpose and intention in every step.

SERAFIN HERRERA

COLUMBIA COLLEGE CHICAGO

Serafin is a Chicago-based, Latino designer. My initial exposure to design and visual communication was in the neighborhood I grew up in — La Villita. Graffiti, murals, hand-drawn signages, and posters were the way we communicated to each other here. I didn’t see them just as marks and words, but as art from my culture, and a way to connect. Since then, I have always been interested in learning more about art, which grew into my passion for design. Eventually, I found myself at CCC pursuing my B.A. in Graphic Design with a concentration in publication design and minor in marketing. My work naturally gravitates towards community and culture. Not only do I feel this need to give back to the community that inspired me, but I want to contribute to a new generation of designers and creatives that are focused on helping each other out. I’m interested in exploring ways to do this through branding, print, and experimental typography.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I’m inspired by architecture, fashion, and colors.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I want to specialize in brand identity such as working with small businesses, magazines, or independent artists.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

Design school taught me the importance of networking and partnerships, and how to value relationships with other creatives.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD? EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

I look up to Phero — a Chicago-based creative and entrepreneur.

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CARLY BONANSINGA UNIVERSITY OF HARTFORD

Carly is currently a junior completing her BFA in Visual Communication Design at the University of Hartford’s Hartford Art School. She has many artistic hobbies and passions, from commissioned pet portraits to cake decorating, and has always dreamt of a career where she could put her creativity to good use. While attending Henry Abbott Technical High School, she discovered a love for visual art and communication through her focus in the Graphic Design program. Since then, design has become an outlet for her creativity and love for putting beauty into the world. She looks forward to earning her degree and continuing to grow and learn through her work.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I feel most inspired when collaborating and sharing ideas with my peers and other creatives.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

Although there are many areas of design I feel drawn to, I enjoy myself the most when building brand identity. I am interested in doing so through package design or advertising and marketing design.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

Through design school, I have learned the importance of calculated risks. Maintaining the careful eye of a designer while generating a creative and inventive design was an unexpected challenge but has been a great learning experience for me.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD? EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

A designer I look up to is Louise Fili. I love her elegant, distinctive approach to branding and package design.

JALIVIA GONCALVES UNIVERSITY

OF HARTFORD

Jalivia is a 20-year-old graphic designer born and raised in Brockton, Massachusetts. She is a junior majoring in Visual Communication Design. I started out at a young age playing a bunch of sports and not really tapping into my artistic side as much but, it wasn’t until the beginning of my junior year of high school that I started to take art very seriously. I began to draw a lot and one of my teachers introduced me to digital art and the whole aspect of graphic design. From there I knew that’s what I wanted to study in college and make it a career one day. I am constantly working on challenging myself with new designs and software to just get out of my comfort zone so I can become the well-rounded designer I’ve dreamed of becoming. As of now I am hoping to continue to use my design skills to not only satisfy people’s needs but to also bring more attention to young minority female artists like myself.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

When designing I’m most inspired by the music I listen to as well as things I see on a day-to-day basis whether it’s just the scenery or signs and buildings along the way.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I’m currently interested in the areas of design that include packaging design, Illustration as well as Publication and Typographic design.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

Design school has taught me that working with people that have a different design style than me can be challenging but also beneficial in certain ways.

104 GDUSA 2023 | STUDENTS TO WATCH

CARLIN BEAL UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI

Carlin Beal is a senior graduating in Spring 2023 with a BFA in graphic design and a minor in sociology. Growing up outside of New Orleans, Louisiana, she was surrounded by loud music, bold art, and unique culture. This influence stirred a passion for creativity from a young age. As a kid, she did every creative hobby you can think of, from doodling dress designs, to being in the theater program at school. When choosing a career path, she wanted to pick something that allowed her imagination to run but also had structure. She has a passion for learning and tries to do something new with every design. More specifically, she enjoys publication design and using alternative methods. Currently, Carlin is the president of USM’s student-led graphic design organization, Creative Collective. She works on the Design and Marketing Team for the School of Performing and Visual Arts. When not on her computer, Carlin is probably running because she is on the Cross Country and Track team at USM.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Music inspires me the most. Also, my friends and their passions inspire me.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I hope to work in advertising and marketing design.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

I did not expect school to teach me how to be inspired. I thought that was something a person stumbles upon, but now I know how to actively search for inspiration and look at everything through the lens of design.

DEBORAH ELAM UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI

Deborah Elam is a senior earning her BFA with an emphasis in Graphic Design. She came to graphic design late; for her first degree, she started as a music major before switching to English literature and German. Her passion for literature, art, and other cultures led her to travel the world, living in Germany and South Korea on multiple occasions throughout her twenties and early thirties. Although visual art had always seemed out of reach, the itch for a more creative life eventually drove her to the realization that in addition to enjoying the works of others, she could create art and design herself. She loves utilizing her background in literature to explore how language and design intersect, with an emphasis on typography and publications. She strives to push her own limits with each design, adding new skills to her arsenal so she can approach every project with the ability to fully express its unique needs.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I get inspired by the creative projects of my friends and husband, books and movies, traveling, and most of all by slowing down and taking the time to notice the world around me.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

Honestly I can’t wait to be surprised by where my career takes me, but I really enjoy working in branding. I also would love to work with art installations and combining different media, such as poetry and photography.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

I did not anticipate the ability to explore such a wide variety of art disciplines. I had no idea that design school would also include the ability to study ceramics and sculpture.

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MADDIE HOGGAN

UTAH VALLEY UNIVERSITY

I recently received a BFA in Graphic Design and a minor in Art History from Utah Valley University. I am so thankful for my time at UVU. It really helped me cultivate my passion for all things art and design. I remember playing on Microsoft Paint as a kid and making posters for whatever my weekly obsession was. Strong visuals and careful type consideration, in my opinion, have enormous power to enact change, evoke emotion, or simply look pretty and make you feel good. It is so satisfying when a design system works — it feels like you've finally finished a puzzle. Design is an everchanging field, which means there are always new and exciting things to learn. It’s a creative field that allows you to express your ideas and communicate visually. A large portion of my work is focused on issues and topics concerning the female experience and youth culture in America. I am currently employed by Super Top Secret, a design firm located in downtown Salt Lake City. My passions include branding, creative and art direction, typography, editorial work, motion, apparel design, and user interface design, which I am fortunate to be able to pursue through my job.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

I get very inspired by everyday things. Signs, posters, desk carvings, stickers, and basically any piece of art or written word. Movies and music also play a big role in how I get inspired.

SARAH UTLEY UTAH VALLEY UNIVERSITY

I am a senior pursuing a BFA in Graphic Design with a minor in Art History. Some of my projects outside of school are working as an art director on a Valentine’s pop-up museum, organizing a local zine exchange, and collaborating with a team of kick-ass women led by artist Caitlin Connolly. I am a serial hobbyist and love to play with new materials. Last year I went full grandma mode and experimented with knitting, cake decorating, candle dipping, and sewing. Next on my list of stuff to try is printmaking and book-binding.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Art history classes. Museums. NPR Tiny Desk Concert. Talking to my sister. And surprisingly (or maybe not?), going to school.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I am interested in art direction and branding, but I am keeping an open mind when it comes to my career. I have learned that the creative world is full of variety and I am open to exploring where opportunities take me.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

I have been surprised by how much I enjoy learning about art history and the ways in which it has changed my design thinking. Understanding the history of my craft has given me the power to design with intention and makes for more informed work.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN

ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I don’t really know if I want to “specialize” in one specific area yet. I kind of like the idea of knowing a bit of everything, but then you run the risk of being a master of none. I would like to learn more about motion and UI design!

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD? EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

I admire both Paul Rand (specifically his book covers) and Saul Bass (for his title sequences, of course.) They both have a way of capturing sophistication and playfulness at the same time.

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LINDSY BUSER BOWLING GREEN STATE UNIVERSITY

Lindsy Buser is pursuing a Master of Design (MDes) in Integrative Design. She was a BGSU graphic design undergraduate from 2005 – 2009 and started the master's program in Fall 2021. In between undergraduate and graduate, she has pursued a variety of design work in multiple areas: agency, in-house, freelance, and remote. Additionally, she has taught design courses at BGSU. Her graduate interests include the “what, how, and why” of what we learn and exploring alternative ways of knowing that can develop into actionable and/or reflective knowledge. More specifically, her focus is developing tools, methods, and frameworks that help people navigate educational experiences among information overload. Beyond school and design (although they all blend together from time to time), her life includes a lively bunch of humans, dogs, chickens, and a cat. Lindsy enjoys creating handmade art, especially mixed media collage involving thrifted materials . . . or whatever weird/delightful stuff she has around the house.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Personal narratives, biographies, and everyday rituals among a variety of cultures. Quilts and chickens are pretty rad, too.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

While I would like to work in the educational realm, I am open to areas that are on the cusp of existence due to our rapidly changing world.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

I did not expect design school to be a catalyst for addressing and understanding myself at a much deeper level.

EDDIE SANTIAGO VAZQUEZ

BOWLING GREEN STATE UNIVERSITY

Eddie Santiago Vazquez is a graphic design student set to graduate in the spring of 2023. A native of Puerto Rico who now resides in Lorain, Ohio. Eddie has always been surrounded by creativity, with a father who was a woodworker and a mother who enjoyed making jewelry as a hobby. Throughout his studies, Eddie has honed his design skills in a variety of areas, including UI/UX design, design for social impact, art and design history, metalworking, and printmaking. This diverse skill set has helped him become a well-rounded designer, ready to take on the professional world.

Eddie has received numerous talent awards and was a first-place winner of the 70th undergraduate student art show. He recently completed an art director internship at Harrison and Star, where he worked on high-profile projects. Including a breast cancer social media campaign and a project on Black chronic heart failure patients and the impact of social determinants of health on their burden. As he prepares to enter the workforce, Eddie is excited to bring his skills and passion to new challenges and opportunities.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Knowing that my work will help others and make a difference inspires me to create.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS O F DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I'm not too picky, but I would love to design for the healthcare industry.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

Learning ethical design and being aware that what you create affects real people.

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LEVI VOLPE UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS

Levi Volpe is a senior Graphic Design BFA student currently bouncing between Philadelphia and the New York City metropolitan area. Drawing inspiration from his many passions — photography, cooking, illustration, playing instruments, and more — he considers himself a jack of all trades who approaches his design practice as an interdisciplinary process. In an ever evolving industry, he believes in design that is as collaborative and accessible as it is able to solve problems. While the print and editorial field has his heart, Levi has both professional and student experience in branding, motion graphics, and product design, striving for precision and thoughtfulness in every discipline.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

All forms of music, my design peers, finding great design in unexpected places. And my Pinterest moodboards.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I love all things print, publication, and editorial — branding too.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

It’s okay to make something ugly at first to make way for the beautiful.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD? EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

Josef Müller-Brockmann. His mastery of type, color, space, and ability to synthesize them all into a striking yet minimalist design was unlike that of any other.

WHAT ARE YOU READING, LISTENING TO, WATCHING?

Anything and everything to do with the most obscure extreme metal bands I can find.

GENEVIEVE WITTROCK UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS

Genevieve Wittrock is a senior studying graphic design. Growing up, her sensibility was influenced by her parents who both worked at the intersection of science and ethics. She has always felt empowered to engage in necessary conversations surrounding politics, technology, and social justice — either at the dinner table or through her many creative outlets. She has always been heavily influenced by photojournalism and the subtleties of street photography. As a “digital native” designer, she’s heavily tapped into internet culture and wants to explore more of the ethical implications of technology to foster a more inclusive design practice.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Everything, but mainly people. Spending time with other creatives throwing out ideas, listening to each other’s projects, and discussing things that provoke us is a tool I use in my own process to better define what I want out of whatever I’m working on. When projects seem to get bigger and more complex, the energy in those rooms alone are enough for me to commit myself with a renewed sense of inspiration, perspective, and purpose.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

In general, I’d like to be working somewhere that combines cultural criticism and design. Art direction or editorial design for creative campaigns.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

How human design really is; how entirely dependent it is on collaboration, conversation, and connection.

108 GDUSA 2023 | STUDENTS TO WATCH

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PEOPLE PROJECTS IDEAS EVENTS PRODUCTS

7 TIPS FOR DESIGNING A PERSONAL BRAND

BY PAUL FLAHARTY

If you’re a designer or creative professional on the move, you’re not alone. Recent research for Robert Half’s Demand for Skilled Talent report found that 54% of marketing and creative professionals are looking for, or planning to look for, a new job in the ﬁrst half of 2023. One way to stand out from the crowd and get recruiters and managers to notice you is by crafting and promoting a personal brand that highlights your creativity, experience and professionalism. Think of it as the image you project of yourself, showing potential employers who you are, what professional skills and experience you have and why they should choose you over other hopefuls.

Consciously or not, you’re already projecting your personal brand through the content you post, share and like on social media, and perhaps even in the way you interact with colleagues. Now you need to up the ante. You need to make sure the story you’ve been telling is cohesive and compelling, something that will cause hiring managers who glance at your proﬁle or portfolio want to look more closely.

HERE ARE MY TOP SEVEN TIPS FOR BUILDING A STRONG PERSONAL BRAND.

1. Figure Out Who You Are

Deﬁne who you are as a designer or creative professional, taking stock of your skills, experience and personal attributes. Questions to ask yourself include:

● What type of projects do I enjoy most?

● Who are my ideal clients?

● Which sectors do I want to focus on?

● What motivates me?

Develop a list of words that reﬂect your brand — who you are personally and professionally.

Some may criticize this as making your brand all about you, you, you. But you’re not being selﬁsh if you set out with the objective of making your brand an approach to addressing the needs of your customers or, as a job seeker, the hiring manager. Knowing yourself is vital for building a solid personal brand that’s realistic and relatable.

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2. Identify Your Unique Offering

Think about what you bring to the table as a designer or creative professional that no one else does. Is it a unique perspective that makes clients sit up when you’re pitching concepts? Perhaps you’re a whiz at everything from Adobe Creative Cloud to Canva. Or maybe you stay calm and steady when everyone else is on the brink of panic. Whatever it is, make that part of your professional persona.

3. Be Your Own Client

Your brand may be personal, but you’ll want to treat this like a professional branding exercise to achieve the best results. You’re both the creative and the client in this scenario, so be prepared to throw out early ideas that don’t feel right, just as a client might. This can be a drawn-out process, so block out time in your schedule to concentrate on the project rather than trying to squeeze it in during pockets of free time.

4. Craft Your Key Message

Write a personal branding statement targeting potential employers. It’s up to you how long or short you make it, but a good rule of thumb is to aim for a maximum of three concise sentences describing what makes you unique and why you should be chosen over all the other job seekers out there.

To tell a compelling story, use descriptive, conversational language (“I’m passionate about helping clients push the envelope in their advertising campaigns”) rather than vanilla statements of fact (“I have experience in working with many clients”).

Don’t try to be someone you’re not. Stay true to yourself and have the conﬁdence that it’s your skills, experience and personality that will stand out.

5. Personalize All Your Job Search Materials

Now comes the fun part — sketching designs to represent your brand. Whether it’s a typographical treatment of your name or a conceptual graphic, try to ﬁnd a look that matches your creative niche and professional story. Aim to make your visual brand consistent across all your job search materials, including your portfolio, website and resume.

6. Create A Stand-out Digital Portfolio

To catch the eye of busy managers, showcase your skills with a digital portfolio that really pops, using your new personal branding statement as the introduction.

Start by selecting seven to 10 of your strongest samples that best represent your skills and are tailored to the target company. Include detailed caption information on each sample to add context about your contribution to the work and your creative process. Put your site to the test on as many browser versions and platform you can before sharing it. You may also want to ask a friend or two to browse through your site and offer feedback.

7. Curate and Refine Your Brand

Many employers look at candidates’ online proﬁles during the hiring process, so it’s important to go through your professional and private proﬁles and curate your posts. After all, past versions of yourself and online behavior can impact how you are perceived today.

Now that you’ve worked out your key message, add it to your LinkedIn proﬁle and resume to achieve consistency in your branding. Far from being static, your brand will evolve as your design or creative career develops, so revisit it every two or three years to see if it needs a refresh.

An effective personal brand creates a strong impression that quickly tells prospective employers all the essential things they need to know about you. In a competitive hiring market, it can make the difference between that dream job going to you or another job seeker.

PAUL FLAHARTY is executive director of the marketing and creative practice at global talent solutions ﬁrm Robert Half, which connects professionals with companies hiring in marketing, creative, digital, advertising and public relations. His primary responsibility is to develop and oversee the growth strategy for the company's marketing and creative contract talent solutions teams across the United States. www.roberthalf.com

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