Heather Barbis

HB DESIGN
MORRO BAY CA

A creative problem-solver, Heather Barbis is the founder and lead creative of HB Design, a design studio based in Morro Bay CA. Celebrating its 10-year anniversary in 2020, HB Design enjoys pushing the boundaries of traditional design to deliver unique, dynamic graphic design solutions tailored to client needs. As a modern form of art, graphic design can directly impact thoughts, emotions, perceptions and more. Creating or elevating a client’s brand and their messaging to deliver the most effective communication in a way that sets them apart is both fulfilling and extremely rewarding. Supported by both a BS in Visual Communications and a BS Journalism from Ohio University, Heather integrates the design and editing process for clients while maneuvering challenging projects from concept to completion. Heather’s creative efforts have been recognized through numerous awards and client results over the years.

HOW AND WHY DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN DESIGNING FOR GOOD AND WHY DO YOU BELIEVE DESIGN IS AN ESPECIALLY EFFECTIVE TOOL FOR THIS GOAL?

Contributing to initiatives throughout the Central Coast, I have long supported my community, non-profits, and various organizations. Designing for good often means lending your talents to a meaningful cause for reasons with value higher than any financial gain. Through my gifts and experience, my community is better able to present itself in professional, elegant, and efficient ways, which is important. Sometimes these opportunities only reach small audiences; yet other times, my designs are being viewed by an audience of 100,000 plus, which, even after so many years in this business, is still exciting. If I can contribute my expertise as a small portion of a larger effort, why not? My parents taught me it was important to give back to my community, and fortunately, now I am able to do that through a channel that is close to my heart and reflective of my passion — graphic design. Graphic design is an especially successful tool because of its ability to deliver vast and effective results. The aesthetics and organization of a piece can determine whether the audience views, values and takes action on the intended message. To be taken seriously in a competitive and high-end world, sometimes giving an organization a leg up is necessary. During this especially tumultuous time, there are countless opportunities to contribute to designing for good.

GIVEN THE CONFLUENCE OF EVENTS AND CHALLENGES WE FACE THIS FALL, DOES 2020 PRESENT ANY SPECIAL OPPORTUNITIES, URGENCIES, OBSTACLES TO DESIGNING FOR GOOD?

Undeniably, 2020 has presented various obstacles for all sectors of our economy in light of the COVID19 pandemic. Businesses are tasked with re-inventing themselves, municipalities are struggling with budget shortfalls, and nonprofits are having a difficult time continuing to operate let alone raise funds. Due to these circumstances, numerous pro bono opportunities have presented themselves. Leveraging my knowledge and skills, I have aided in the presentation of innovative messaging that is crucial during this time. While helping businesses achieve results and growth is vastly rewarding, giving back to worthwhile organizations to help them flourish in difficult times is bar none. It’s hard to beat that feeling.