FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
Gianna Guzman a designer soon to graduate from Florida International University with her bachelor’s degree in digital arts. Gianna grew up in Southern California with an interest in drawing but studying at FIU opened up opportunities to explore a multitude of creative outlets, from photography, figure drawing, and printmaking. Gianna’s background in fine arts influence her design style, often opting for handwritten typography and digital illustrations to make up compositions.
WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?
I feel the most inspired when I listen to music and spend time outside.
WHAT AREA OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?
I’d like to design for print and publication because I love to see amazing designs out in the real world.
WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?
I was most surprised to learn how vast the opportunities were in the design industry, and how it is undergoing rapid changes with emerging technologies.
WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD? EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?
I look up to designers and illustrators like Max Kolo and Kelly Emmrich for their illustrative style and creativity.
WHAT ARE YOU READING, LISTENING TO, WATCHING (BOOKS, MOVIES, TV, SOCIAL MEDIA, MUSIC)?
One of my favorite things to do is put together playlists with a similar vibe. I really like listening to avant garde artists like Bjork, Cocteau Twins, and The Growlers.
DO YOU, OR DO YOU PLAN TO, DESIGN FOR ANY CAUSES OR CHARITIES, I.E., DESIGN FOR GOOD?
I recently designed a series of illustrated posters for the Florida nonprofit Waste Not Want Not, which prevent food waste by transporting surplus food from grocery stores to local people in need. The experience was very rewarding for me, and I’d love to do more in the future.
DO YOU FEEL THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS PREPARED YOU TO FIND A JOB?
My time in the design program prepared and challenged me for job hunting by building up my confidence and providing opportunities to network with industry professionals.
