Students To Watch • Graphic Design USA

My name is Kora, and I am a graphic designer and illustrator based in Los Angeles, currently pursuing a BFA in Graphic Design at California Institute of the Arts (CalArts). I interned at Warner Bros. as a Graphic Design Intern and previously worked as a freelancer for the advertising company Illuminista. I believe great design stems from strong methodology, high personal standards, and a genuine love for puzzles. When I’m not designing, I’m making silly duck drawings, building miniature models, listening to music, reading books, or watching movies!

What first sparked your interest in graphic design?

I’ve always appreciated design, even before starting, collecting Chinese red envelopes with designs that stood out to me, taking pictures of unique typography I see in my everyday life, and saving patterned wrapping paper I found in tea packaging.

Who are your biggest creative influences?

My biggest creative influences include Elizabeth Goodspeed, Gander, William Morris, Owen Jones, James Jean, Kay Nielson, Ralph Steadman, and Guo Pei.

Tell us about a design project you’re most proud of. What made it special?

I am most proud of my branding project for Aurelian Chalice. I felt like the project highlighted my branding, illustration, type, patternmaking, and publication design skills, and I had a lot of fun and learned a lot!

What does “good design” mean to you?

“Good design” includes successful and clear communication, responds well to the intended audience, is experimental, and pushes creative boundaries.

What trends in graphic design excite you – or concern you – the most?

Some graphic design trends that excite me the most are the resurgence of the Y2K aesthetic, the old money aesthetic, and more experimental typography + graphics!

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CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF THE ARTS (CALARTS)

What first sparked your interest in graphic design?

Who are your biggest creative influences?

Tell us about a design project you’re most proud of. What made it special?

What does “good design” mean to you?

What trends in graphic design excite you – or concern you – the most?

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