My Evolution in Design

From as far back as I can remember, I’ve always felt a deep connection to art and aesthetics. My first tools of expression were pencils and paper, and drawing became second nature to me as early as preschool. However, my first formal experience with professional graphic design education didn’t come until university. It was there that I developed an aesthetic perspective grounded in evaluative criteria—one that allowed me to understand and apply concepts in a more structured and coherent way.

Illustration has always been my main interest. During university, I began correcting many of the techniques and styles I had previously developed on my own. It was a process of deconstruction and reconstruction. I learned to analyze my work critically and to make more informed decisions about composition, color, and technique. This stage of learning was essential in helping me develop a more personal and distinctive style—one that better reflected my vision and abilities.

Over time, my interests expanded into other areas of graphic design. Branding became my second great passion. I discovered the power of creating visual identities that are not only visually appealing, but also capable of clearly communicating a brand’s values and essence. At the same time, advertising design began to fascinate me. I loved the idea of creating impactful visual messages that capture attention and convey ideas in a clear and persuasive way.

Teaching has also always played a central role in my life. From a young age, I knew I wanted to teach and share what I knew with others. I did this even back in high school—offering private English lessons to classmates or explaining any subject I felt confident in. They often told me I had a natural ability to explain things clearly. It came as no surprise to those who knew me that I would eventually become a university lecturer.

Teaching not only fulfilled that desire, but also had a profound impact on my growth as a graphic designer. Interacting with talented students constantly filled my mind with new ideas and exposed me to design styles I might never have explored on my own. This ongoing exchange of knowledge and perspectives enriched both my vision and my skills.

As a lecturer, I had the opportunity to engage with a wide range of design references through my students’ work, while also staying closely connected to contemporary trends and artistic movements. This constant flow of visual information helped me better understand what design truly means—allowing me to apply that understanding to my own work and to share it with others. Because guiding and refining something born from a creative process—which must always remain free—is no easy task.

Learning to recognize and analyze different stylistic influences, and understanding how they come together in the work of students and colleagues, became a crucial part of my ongoing education. It’s absolutely true: you learn from your students.

I believe no one can truly call themselves a graphic designer until they begin to see the world differently. It’s the moment when you look at a sunset and notice the color palette; when you watch a film and pay attention to framing, sequences, color, and message; when you walk down the street and observe every piece of advertising around you. It’s when you start designing with intention—fully aware of what you’re doing, mastering the tools and techniques—and self-doubt begins to fade. The world looks completely different when you see it through the lens of graphic art.

Discover the story behind my personal brand in my article: Why is my logo a Phoenix?

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