VERMONT COLLEGE OF FINE ARTS (VCFA)
Fernando Del Rosario is a seasoned advertising creative, passionate artist, dedicated educator, and lifelong learner. With nearly three decades in the advertising and design industry and over 20 years teaching at colleges and universities, Fernando is currently a student in the MFA Graphic Design program at Vermont College of Fine Arts, embodying his commitment to constant growth and creativity.Born in the Philippines, Fernando immigrated to the United States at age 11. Despite academic challenges in middle school, high school, and college, his boundless imagination and tenacious work ethic propelled him forward. He earned his degree from the College for Creative Studies in Detroit, Michigan, and began a thriving career in advertising. His agency portfolio includes renowned names such as Y&R, Wunderman, Innocean, and David&Goliath, working on iconic brands like Hyundai, Taco Bell, Warner Bros., and Hot Wheels.As an educator, Fernando has inspired students at Cal State Fullerton, Santiago Canyon College, and The Art Institute of California, among others. An accomplished artist, his REAL HEROES collection has been featured in over 60 gallery exhibitions across Southern California and Portland, Oregon. Through his career, teaching, and art, Fernando champions creativity as a force for connection, growth, and inspiration.
WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?
I think I was a curious cat in a past life. I love being curious, exploring, seeing, reading, watching, listening to something to both I’m familiar with to something I know nothing about.
WHAT AREA OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?
As much as I love old school media (print, TV, merchandise, package design, etc.), I am intrigued and excited by AI technology. It reminds me of the same exact conversations during my undergrad at CCS when Photoshop, Illustrator & Freehand was really taking off.
WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?
I came into Vermont College of Fine Arts (VCFA) as a sponge, ready to soak up everything they’re going to throw at me. I didn’t expect to have as much fun as I am having. I’m inspired by Robert Schuller’s quote, “What would you attempt to do if you knew you would not fail?”
WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD? EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?
Dominic Pangborn. He is a modern day Renaissance Artist/Creative, friend and mentor.
WHAT ARE YOU READING, LISTENING TO, WATCHING (BOOKS, MOVIES, TV, SOCIAL MEDIA, MUSIC)?
Books: -1521 Rediscovering the History of the Philippines, Judy Robinson-Draplin Design Co. Pretty Much Everything, Aaron James Draplin-Writing for the Design Mind, Natalia Ilyin-Start With Why, Simon Sinek-Leaders Eat Last, Simon SinekMovies, TV & Music:-From Sci-fi (Dune, Star Wars, Marvel) to Independents (The Whale, Red Rocket, Peanut Butter Falcon) and everything else in between. Same thing with music.
DO YOU, OR DO YOU PLAN TO, DESIGN FOR ANY CAUSES OR CHARITIES, I.E., DESIGN FOR GOOD?
Yes, I started a non-profit Graphic Design / Advertising agency when the pandemic happened in 2020 called CREATIVE AID. I plan to grow the agency to continue to help small local businesses and other non-profit organizations.
DO YOU FEEL THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS PREPARED YOU TO FIND A JOB?
Besides continuing to learn and expand my creative skills with VCFA, the connection and incredible network that I am now part of with VCFA is an incredible advantage that will open up creative opportunities for me.
