Ever wonder why you need a graphic designer? Or scratching your head over what on earth they actually do? And perhaps the most cosmic question of all: Why am I here?
(Well, here as in my website. Not as in an existential crisis type of question. I don’t have the answer for that…)
The short of it, you have stumbled right into my realm of creativity because you're mulling over the idea of hiring a graphic designer. No matter the project at hand, I want you to grasp precisely how I weave the graphic design magic and how I tackle your visual design challenges for you.
So, welcome into my realm of creativity, and right below, you can dive into what I ACTUALLY do.
What I Do
(THE CREATIVE PROCESS)
Beginning Stage:
Research
Research, research, and more research – it's that vital. The most intense exploration occurs right at the beginning, before my pencil hits the paper. This crucial insight is what guides me into the enchanting world of design – understanding its purpose, envisioning its journey, and ensuring it leaves its unique mark. Yet, the research journey doesn't halt here. It becomes an integral part of the design process, continuing to play a crucial role in all creative stages.
Control Chaos Stage:
Sketching
The most crucial part of the process: sketching. This is where the magic sparks, and my graphic design brain shifts into high gear. Beyond the design practicalities, like research and tailoring to market specifics, at my core, I'm an artist. It's the phase where I sketch, experiment, and let creativity run wild. Now, bear with me for the next part; I know it might sound a bit "too artistry" or pretentious. I infuse these designs with my soul and years of schooling, making this stage a culmination of expertise, passion, and a touch of controlled chaos. It's not just about creating visuals; it's about birthing something unique and authentic. I thrive on this, and it's what sets me apart from mass-produced designs.
Nearly There Stage:
Ideation
My designs may still echo wild ink strokes, but it's the beautiful chaos of creativity—imperfection at its finest. The seed of the design has been born in sketching, now is the time to nurture the sketch in the right direction. Which colors will bring the brand to life? What fonts will speak its language? These questions steer this stage as I delve into resonating with the brand and the broader market. Sprinkle in another round of research, ensuring every decision is backed by purpose.This is where my fancy tools, including various Adobe projects and my iPad, come into play. I refine those wild strokes into a polished presentation. Depending on the project's scope, I might create design variations, giving you options to choose from. We engage in a creative dance, editing and refining raw creativity into a strategic, visually compelling story tailored for your project. It's a collaborative process, ensuring the final design harmonizes seamlessly with your vision and objectives.
Final Stage:
Conception
After a couple of days of letting the main design marinate with you, we will meet again for our last collaboration. You'll share your thoughts, what resonates, and any extra nuances needed to truly make the design yours. Falling in love at first sight is very real during this stage for many, and sometimes, it just takes a small tweak to spark that love even more. Other times, we engage in a creative dance, going back and forth until the design says, "I'm finished." It’s definitely the stage where things truly start to shine and take on a pretty glow. Those sharp edges from the presentation of the nearly finished design have been delicately smoothed out. It's the moment when the design transforms from a concept to a visual masterpiece that perfectly encapsulates your vision and captures the essence of your project.
Who Am I
(THE ARTIST BEHIND THE SCREEN)
So, who am I?
My official name is Monserrat Hernandez, but that name can be complicated for most (especially me on pesky paperwork) so call me Monse. I’m a graphic designer and creative soul from a rural town snuggled next to Fresno, California. Picture it: a small town nestled amid peaches and oranges, far from the Hollywood glam but drenched in all the California heat.
Growing up, you'd catch me with a pencil and a journal in hand, sketching away. Fast forward a couple of decades, and voilà, it's now my job. Throw in some intense school hours and heaps of practice, and here I am—the same little kid with a penchant for sharing the beauty of the world, but this time, I'm dragging my clients and their brands along for the creative joyride.
Now welcome to my face. Yup, that is me over there →
Skills
Personal
⋆ Creativity
My soul is single-handedly being powered by it. The life force of design, the energy that drives innovation and allows me to transform concepts into impactful creations.
⋆ Interpersonal Communication
Everyone has a story, and I thrive on learning how it impacts their brands. The bridge that connects me with clients, team members, and users enables me to create designs that resonate and communicate effectively.
⋆ Detail-Oriented
Because every pixel matters. In the world of design, attention to detail is paramount and every single decision ensures a polished and visually cohesive final product.
⋆ Problem Solver
Design challenges help my brain stay in creative shape. This is a journey filled with challenges but I relish finding innovative solutions that keep me learning.
Professional
⋆ Digital Design Skills
The driving force behind my continuous growth. It empowers me to take initiative, explore new design trends, and consistently develop my knowledge in a field that is constantly changing with technology.
⋆ Visual Branding
Creating cohesive and memorable brand identities that leave a lasting impact beyond being pretty. A strong visual brand identity communicates a company's essence; as a designer, I contribute to building and maintaining the correct identity.
⋆ Understanding Marketing
Designing with a strategy to achieve success in the real world. Knowing marketing principles allows me to align my designs with strategic goals, ensuring that they not only look good but also contribute to the overall success of a brand or campaign.
⋆ Project Management
Effective project management ensures that my wild creativity is not hindered by chaos. It enables me to meet deadlines, manage resources efficiently, and deliver high-quality designs within scope, which is why my life is ruled over by the holy agenda.
Education
Graphic Design Certificate
Reedley College, USA
2015 - 2018
AA in Studio Arts
Reedley College, USA
Cum Laude
2016 - 2018
BFA in Graphic Design
California State University of Fresno, USA
Magna Cum Laude
2018 - 2022
What I Created
(THE PORTFOLIO)
Embark on a Journey Through My Brain.
More than just the finished product comes the soul behind every design
Ready to infuse your brand with design magic?
NAVAGIATION
BE CREATIVE.
BE UNIQUE.
BE YOUR BRAND.
A raven with a pencil, an iPad, and a big dream of making brands better one design at a time. Or world domination, whichever comes first.
Design and illustrated by this raven full of coffee and will.
© 2024 Monse Hernandez. All Rights Reserved
COME STALK THE ART!
