From Museum Art Classes to Art Director: My Journey in Design

Introduction:

Art and design have always been more than just hobbies—they’ve been the canvas for my unique set of skills and talents. From a young age, I knew I wanted to continue exploring this world, and over the years, that desire has only deepened. This post is about my journey from those early art classes to becoming an accomplished Art Director, and how my passion for design has shaped every step of the way.

Early Beginnings:

As a child, you could often find me underneath the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, taking art classes and immersing myself in creativity. This early exposure to the art world laid the foundation for my future in design. By high school, I was already captivated by graphic design, photography, and studio arts. One of my proudest moments came at age 17 when my photography was displayed in local libraries and heritage societies, a milestone that fueled my passion even further.

Education and Inspiration:

During my undergraduate studies, the Technology, Arts, and Media (TAM) program at the University of Colorado-Boulder became my academic home. I immersed myself in design on many levels, from graphic art to app coding, and graduated with a 4.0 GPA. One of the most impactful parts of my education was studying the Bauhaus Movement. Its stunning geometric forms and emphasis on functionality continue to inspire my design philosophy today.

Professional Growth:

Now at age 30, I’ve spent over a decade honing my craft as an Art Director and Graphic Designer. I currently work full-time for a sales and marketing consulting firm in Denver, where I uphold a consistent and impactful visual identity across various brands. My role involves more than just design—I spearhead the discovery of emerging artists to build brand relationships and create innovative marketing campaigns. Some of my most memorable collaborations include working with artists like Birdcap from Memphis, Yu Maeda from Japan, and Alejandro Parrilla from Spain.

Engaging with the Art Community:

I’m also deeply involved in the Denver arts scene, constantly scoping out exhibitions, mural events, and live painting performances. This engagement fuels my creativity and keeps me connected to the vibrant community that surrounds design and art.

Why Design Matters:

My pursuit of design is driven by a deep love for making visual materials that are both beautiful and purposeful. Design is a powerful synergy of art and function—it directs, educates, and entertains the world every waking second. On a marketing team, the goal is always to increase revenue and brand awareness. But beyond that, I aim to create lifestyle brands that resonate with their communities, encouraging active engagement and building lasting connections.

Conclusion:

Design has been a constant force in my life, from my early days in art classes to my current role as an Art Director. It’s a journey that continues to evolve, and I’m excited to see where it takes me next. Whether you’re just starting your design journey or have been in the field for years, I hope my story inspires you to keep pushing your creative boundaries and pursuing your passions.