Graphic Design

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https://hdl.handle.net/10217/180169

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Open Access
Caden Young: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Young, Caden, artist
The artist's statement: As a Graphic Designer, with the love of nature, my work celebrates the beauty of nature while raising awareness of its importance. I aim to create designs that are clear, engaging, and deeply connected to their message. Through experimentation and iteration, I refine my ideas, embracing trial and error as an integral part of the creative process. Each piece I create reflects growth—both in skill and understanding—and serves as a collaboration of ideas that resonate with viewers. Nature inspires my work, driving me to highlight its wonder through powerful yet approachable visual narratives. I value simplicity in communication, ensuring the design enhances rather than detracts from the message. My goal is to craft art that sparks appreciation for the natural world, encouraging others to see its beauty and significance. As technology evolves, so does my creative approach. Exploring new tools and techniques fuels my passion for innovation, enabling me to push boundaries in digital design. Ultimately, my work reflects growth, curiosity, and the belief that art can inspire meaningful connections between people and the environment.
Open Access
Fletcher Ayres: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Ayres, Fletcher, artist
The artist's statement: As a graphic designer, I am deeply inspired by the interplay between perception and meaning. The objects and forms around me are not things I just observe; they are methods of understanding, rich with personal interpretations. My work acts as a translation of these perceptions, making the invisible visible, the mundane extraordinary. By embracing brutalist and architectural aesthetics, I uncover the skeletal structures of our environment—the building blocks that shape our everyday but are seemingly always missed. Brutalism resonates with me because of its honesty and unapologetic nature. It mirrors my approach to communication: bold and direct. Whether creating for myself or a client, I remain true to these principles. Each piece of work becomes a narrative about connection—how influences interweave in digital spaces, forming a continuum of shared and personal meaning. My work does not seek to persuade or dictate; instead, it offers a mirror, inviting viewers to reflect on the structures that define their lives and relationships. Through this lens, I spark curiosity about the often-overlooked aspects of the world and ourselves. By presenting forms stripped to their concept, I challenge others to see beyond the obvious, to contemplate the underlying framework of the world.
Open Access
Sonam Sherpa: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Sherpa, Sonam, artist
The artist's statement: Being creative is a significant part of who I am as a person. I turn to creativity as an outlet and love expressing myself through the art of visual communication and design. As a graphic designer and illustrator, I communicate and evoke strong emotions within my work, particularly focusing on positivity. I create designs that build a positive impact by being fun and playful, or simply just visually pleasing and comforting, as I feel it reflects my own personality while also uplifting the viewers of my work. I also have a deep love and connection towards characters and character art. I feel as though they are an excellent creative vessel for everything from storytelling to emulating emotion which is why I enjoy incorporating expressive, lovable characters into a majority of the designs and illustrations that I create. Although I have my own personal style and creative direction when it comes to my work, I never limit myself to them as I am always eagerly looking for new ways to grow as a designer and illustrator by experiencing new ideas and perspectives. I enjoy applying my creativity, style, and personality to the work I create while also being inspired by the other creatives around me whether that includes clients, collaborators, or brands I have the opportunity to create with.
Open Access
Charlotte Noton: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Noton, Charlotte, artist
The artist's statement: Hello! My name is Charlotte Noton and I am an graphic designer from Colorado. I have experience in multiple fields within graphic design, such as brand management, creating illustrations, social media management, video editing, and page design. I also take joy in creating animations, simple games, and exploring new programs. I am most interested in working within the fields of brand management, page design, and illustration. Environmental and social justice are important to me and I'm always happy to use my skills to elevate these topics. When working on projects I value spending lots of time brainstorming before jumping into the actual product itself. I want to make sure I fully understand what needs to be done and how I will get it done. What style will I use, what color scheme will I go for, what are the dimensions of the project, and most importantly when is the due date. I am often working on multiple projects at once so I like to keep a planner containing the due dates of each of my projects, so I know which ones are the most pressing to work on. The extra time spent in the idea stage, making sure I know exactly what I want to do and how I will do it, saves me a lot of time while in production. I don't want to forget that a subheading needs to be included, because now my whole layout is thrown off, costing me more time. I don't want to have an unresolved issue of how to display data in a layout with a style that doesn't work well to data display.
Open Access
Ashley Reichel: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Reichel, Ashley, artist
The artist's statement: Graphic design unfolds in a digital realm, manifesting in a dynamic spectrum: from sleek infographics and onboarding materials to immersive 360 photo booth bases, magazine ads, and sprawling spreads. Each creation embodies a fusion of intention and experimentation, where form and function intertwine seamlessly. Projects like magazine and book spreads resonate deeply, not merely as tasks but as orchestrations where geometry and narrative coexist. Their elements harmonize in a rhythm that invites creativity to flourish without constraint. The current bodies of work lean toward illustrative expressions, diverging from the geometric purity that is often called. Yet, within these deviations lies an opportunity—a chance to expand perspectives, distill insights, and reimagine possibilities. Themes emerge, shaped by a pulse of passion—be it a global concern or an intimate notion. Each piece evolves from layers of inquiry, driven by a desire to transcend surface connections and delve into the essence of its subject. Research anchors the process, mapping pathways between understanding and creation. The aim is always to evoke a deeper resonance—to transcend mere aesthetics and craft visuals that embody the spirit of their themes.
Open Access
Alex Sherman: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Sherman, Alex, artist
The artist's statement: As an artist, I embrace spontaneity as a driving force in my creative process. Each piece starts from a moment of inspiration—sometimes sparked by a fleeting memory, a random conversation, or a burst of emotion—and takes on a life of its own. For instance, when I created a recent abstract painting, I let my brushstrokes flow without planning, reacting to the tension of the moment. This unfiltered approach gives my work a raw, energetic quality, as though the piece itself is alive, evolving with each brushstroke and color choice. Color plays a crucial role in this process, becoming almost a character in its own right. I often gravitate toward bold, contrasting palettes that push boundaries. For example, in a recent mixed-media piece, I combined the intensity of cobalt blue with the warmth of burnt orange, creating an electrifying sense of movement. On the other hand, in more introspective works, I'll lean toward the subtlety of pastels—soft pinks, lavenders, and muted greens—to evoke a sense of calm and serenity. Each color choice reflects a mood, a feeling, or a story that I want to communicate, engaging the viewer on a visceral level. Typography and fonts also hold a place in my work, especially in pieces that merge visual art with text. I might incorporate graffiti-style lettering or digital-inspired fonts to explore the intersection of street culture and contemporary communication. For example, in a recent collage, I used a combination of bold sans-serif fonts with fragmented hand-drawn lettering, juxtaposing structured text with chaotic, free-form imagery. This integration of fonts connects my work to the broader landscape of visual culture, allowing it to speak to a wide audience by referencing the language and symbols we interact with daily. By weaving these elements together—spontaneity, color, and typography—I create visual narratives that not only express my individual perspective but also tap into the collective consciousness. Whether I'm reflecting on the power of social media in shaping public identity or simply exploring the interplay between light and shadow, my goal is to invite viewers to connect, interpret, and engage with my art in their own unique way.
Open Access
Desiree Haazbaa Begay: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Begay, Desiree Haazbaa, artist
The artist's statement: As a Native American woman in graphic design, my work is a journey through the dualities that shape my identity and practice. I'm drawn to the space where tradition and modernity meet, weaving together ancestral narratives with contemporary design techniques. My goal is to create work that honors my heritage while engaging with the visual language of today. Through color, form, and symbolism, I aim to bridge worlds, crafting designs that resonate with those who came before and those who are yet to emerge. Each piece I create is a conversation—between the past and the future, between my culture and the broader design world. I seek to inspire and empower other Native artists and the next generation by demonstrating that our stories and aesthetics have a rightful, impactful place in modern design. By blending these elements, I hope my work stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Native art, creating a space where tradition and innovation coexist, informing and elevating each other.
Open Access
Ainsley Broyhill: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Broyhill, Ainsley, artist
The artist's statement: My art is an ongoing conversation with the world, combining my tastes, skills, and values to create a visual language that expresses what is not only most important to me, but influential to the world around me. Working with digital platforms in the Adobe suite, as well as more tactile mediums such as charcoal, ink, and traditional drawing, I investigate themes that are meaningful on both personal and societal levels. My creative process usually starts with an idea or mood and progresses through mood boards and gestural sketches. From there, collaboration with my peers becomes critical, allowing me to refine concepts and shape them into simple, impactful designs. I approach each project with curiosity and a desire to learn—especially in client work, where in-depth questions about needs and desires guide my design decisions. My pieces explore the tension between aesthetics and meaning, transforming feminist and political issues into visually appealing forms. I find inspiration everywhere, whether it's a cause I care deeply about or a local shop whose design I felt compelled to reimagine. My work is intended to communicate: to provide an enjoyable visual experience that encourages reflection and discussion on important topics. Each piece reflects my beliefs and perspective, with each line and color choice serving a purpose beyond the surface level. Through art, I hope to connect people to the world around them in ways that are both accessible and essential.
Open Access
Ben Shultz: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Shultz, Ben, artist
The artist's statement: In my design practice, I'm a minimalist at heart. I believe good design communicates effectively with the least amount of information necessary. At the center of my design process—and one of my favorite parts—is extensive research. I begin all design projects the same way: scrolling through articles and webpages I may never otherwise visit, jotting down notes about what initially stands out to me, and endlessly sketching out all my "bad ideas." Accepting that my first thoughts are my worst thoughts drives me to sketch quickly, sloppily, and prolifically. The thick, permanent lines of a Sharpie are my friend in the early stages, allowing me to quickly judge my ideas without getting bogged down in the details. Ultimately, my process is a constant exploration of how simplicity, thought, and the act of creation shape our experience. By focusing on what's essential, I hope to invite viewers to look beyond the surface and engage with the quiet impact of the unseen.
Open Access
Carly DiFraia: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) DiFraia, Carly, artist
The artist's statement: My approach to design is heavily influenced by my background in painting. I strive to merge the objectivity of design with the subjectivity of fine art. This duality pushes me to explore and question the established "rules" and parameters imposed by design. Through my skepticism of these norms, I aim to create work that not only meets functional design needs but also pushes outside of those boundaries. I also recognize the significance of design history and its relationship to our contemporary context, understanding that design is a mirror reflecting where we are positioned within that history. This also informs my creative process, which always begins with traditional tools—paper and pencil. This initial process helps me to think beyond the constraints of the digital realm, in order to have a deeper understanding of how design interacts in physical spaces.
Open Access
Kimberly Perez: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Perez, Kimberly, artist
The artist's statement: Kimberly Perez is an adventurous artist that strives to challenge artistic themes and enjoys discovering new styles. While she explores with mediums from painting, to fibers, she always keeps the essence of digital design alive within her work. She gathers inspiration from video games, natural environments, and whimsical fiction. Although she hyper focuses on cleanliness and clarity, she always makes sure to include some spunk to keep the audience captivated.
Open Access
Nyah Mendez Gomez: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Mendez Gomez, Nyah, artist
The artist's statement: As a graphic designer who focuses mainly in editorial work, I find joy in weaving stories through vibrant visuals and engaging layouts. My passion for magazines allows me to explore the intricate dance between text and imagery, creating an immersive experience for the reader. I believe that design is more than aesthetics; it’s about conveying narratives that resonate. In my work, I love to incorporate multimedia elements that enhance the storytelling process. Whether it's blending photography, illustration, or digital graphics, I strive to create a dynamic dialogue between the different mediums. This approach not only captivates the viewer but also enriches the overall message. I have a deep passion for incorporating color into my work. I am drawn to bold, vibrant hues that evoke emotion and energy, infusing life into every project. Coupled with my keen eye for typography, I aim to craft layouts that are not only visually striking but also harmonious and functional. Each piece is a balance of creativity and clarity, ensuring that the design serves its purpose while captivating the audience. Ultimately, my work is a reflection of my belief that design has the power to inspire, inform, and connect. I am committed to pushing boundaries and exploring new horizons, all while celebrating the art of design in a way that is both innovative and timeless.
Open Access
Paige Foster: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Foster, Paige, artist
The artist's statement: Whether you see it or not, design is at the forefront of our daily lives. Labels at the grocery store, street signs, bike racks, and a new sweatshirt you just purchased have all been thoughtfully sketched, designed, and packaged for consumers. To me, design is an expression of thoughtfulness and how intent can be manifested into something that is no longer for an individual, but for viewership of many. As a graphic designer, I create within a two dimensional space for a three dimensional production. Everything is finalized on a computer, and then printed as posters, labels, clothing, and more. Branding, identity, and unity are all things that I personally appreciate and in turn, excel with producing. I like worlds where visually elements make sense together, so this is a natural realm for me to create in. My art is typically flat and illustrative and I enjoy working with typography that is modern, but I often gravitate towards ones that are periodically based and have a connection to a particular place in time. Communication and working one on one with clients is a major part of my process. I usually try to get a sense of what a client is wanting, sketch and come up with a mood, and design from there. Consistent feedback and notes are important to me in helping to both achieve a client’s goals, and for me to grow as a designer, but being deliberate and making design choices is imperative.
Open Access
Jahvon Lee: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Lee, Jahvon, artist
The artist's statement: I'm Jahvon Lee, a graphic designer passionate about transforming ideas into impactful visuals. Skilled in Procreate, Illustrator, Photoshop, and Blender, I have a strong interest in UX/UI design and enjoy crafting meaningful website layouts. Recently, I expanded into custom rug making, launching a business where I bring clients' visions to life through detailed craftsmanship. Using materials like acrylic and wool yarn, I guide clients through the creative process, showcasing the artistry behind each rug. Inspired by other creators, I'm driven by the challenge of turning concepts into unique and expressive designs.
Open Access
Julianna Shrode: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Shrode, Julianna, artist
The artist's statement: My work explores the two modern facets of design: the digital and the analog. I like to play with the marriage between the screen, and the press, and the movement between the two. My perfectionism in Graphic Design contrasted with the organic nature of Printmaking combine to effectively and entertainingly visually communicate. I use digital processes such as procreate and Adobe Illustrator to create my images. Then, moving into the traditional print space, turning those images into relief carvings and photosensitive exposures. Occasionally, then scanning those prints back into the digital spaces to further manipulate. My goal with any piece I produce is to relay a message to my audience with an aesthetically pleasing approach. I use Printmaking to embrace the imperfections embedded within it and implement that liberty into my design. I believe Printmaking is the predecessor to Graphic Design, and the knowledge of one immensely supplements the other.
Open Access
Charles Cohen: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Cohen, Charles, artist
The artist's statement: I'm Charlie Cohen, a graphic designer from Colorado State University with over 4 years of professional experience. I am captivated by finding new ways to solve problems, prioritizing functionality and experimentation in my designs. Design isn't just a job for me; it's how I interpret the world. Seeking junior positions in graphic design and motion graphics.
Open Access
Theo Conover: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Conover, Theo, artist
The artist's statement: Good design uses visual elements to convey deeper meanings that may always not be noticed consciously, but feels comfortable at a subconscious level; more simply, good design is invisible and feels seamless. My name is Theo Conover! I am a graphic designer who is passionate about combining the logical aspect of marketing with the artistic side of visual art. In my free time, I love hiking with my dog, rock climbing, and building computers! In my designs, I strive to create pieces that feel visually intuitive and seamless while being creative enough to stand out at the same time. I try to use a combination of digital and analog tools when drafting or creating final pieces, since relying entirely on digital means can sometimes make everything look or feel the same. In my designs, I make sure to pay close attention to typography, hierarchy of information, and composition in order to guide the viewer through the design. Clean, conceptual, and creative are different words that could describe my overall style. In terms of growth as an artist, I feel inspired to push my own typography by people like Jessica Hische and Louise Fili, who are able to hand-letter their own type in very creative ways.
Open Access
Tenjing Sherpa: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Sherpa, Tenjing, artist
The artist's statement: My design work focuses on creating visually attractive graphics that attracts viewers' sight. I mainly focus on research and the repetition of creating multiple ideas until I break them down individually. Though I have many resources for various Adobe Suite applications, my sketchbook is the primary source of creativity. I can physically draw many different concepts and have ideas saved on multiple pages. My design purpose is to create minimalistic imagery that helps guide the viewers' eyes into understanding information.
Open Access
Kaylee Congdon: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Congdon, Kaylee, artist
The artist's statement: My name is Kaylee Congdon and I am a Graphic Designer. As a first-generation graduate of Colorado State University with a Bachelor's degree in Fine Art, specializing in Graphic Design and Painting, alongside a minor in Film Studies, my journey into creativity began long before my academic pursuits. With a love for movies, music, and the visual arts, I've been immersed in the world of artistic expression since I can remember. With a belief in the power of art to evoke emotion and connect, my mission as a graphic designer is clear: to make the world feel through my creations. Each project is an opportunity to weave together elements of storytelling, color theory, and design principles. I craft experiences that leave a lasting impression on viewers. I carry with me determination, using it in every aspect of my work.
Open Access
David Lopez: capstone
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2024) Lopez, David, artist
The artist's statement: As a multidisciplinary artist, David Lopez aims to explore the realms of graphic design and sculpture with a specialized eye for modern techniques and unique material approaches. His exploration and expression take inspiration from popular culture and modern music while integrating his own flair. His work combines and exhibits two distinct but harmonious mediums, where pixels and polygons intertwine with clay and forms.