Search GDUSA


The nation’s most popular news source for graphic design business, ideas, and opportunities.

Janel Mitchell

Janel Mitchell knows that design can be a potent tool for social transformation.

CALIFORNIA COLLEGE OF THE ARTS

Design can be a potent tool for communication and social transformation. I am an elevated artist who wants to change the world. My intent as an artist is to penetrate people’s intellectual boundaries by creating from a place of purpose, to saturate and shift viewers’ perspectives. I want to challenge normative context and extract love and understanding of the human condition. Graphic design allows artistry to function as communication for solving problems, and it has the ability to cross cultural and language barriers. I am a passionate social justice warrior and avid researcher who constantly craves knowledge on how to improve humanity and the world we inhabit. I refuse to be overwhelmed by the heartache inflicted throughout society — historically, politically, environmentally, and socially — but instead choose to rally on a daily basis through my actions to improve conditions for all.

IF YOU COULD HAVE COFFEE WITH ANY HISTORICAL FIGURE, WHO WOULD YOU CHOOSE?

I draw strength from artists and individuals who exemplify commitment, passion, and tenacity while faced with adversity. David Hammons, Kerry James Marshall, Deana Lawson, and Shirley Chisholm — a black woman who ran for president in 1972 — all embody this. Any of these legends would be my ideal coffee date!

WHAT IS ONE THING YOUR TIME IN DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DIDN’T EXPECT?

Design school taught me that community, critique, crazy work ethic, and deep research are essential to effective and purposeful design.

WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?

Just Us by Claudia Rankine / Tim McGraw & E-40 / ALL documentaries, and of course Tiger King!

[stwfoot pyear=”2022″ pslot=”40″]

GDUSA NEWSLETTER
Stay up-to-date with the latest in graphic design news
GOT NEWS?
Share the latest in trends, job transitions, and exciting innovations
The LATEST

See More Features >

MORE Like This

Our 62nd Annual Print Survey Sponsored by Billerud

This is GDUSA’s 62nd year conducting a benchmark poll on the vital role of print and paper in the service ...

One Club Opens 2026 Creative Hall of Fame Nominations

Swanepoel: ‘The Ultimate Recognition’ The One Club for Creativity has opened the global call for nominations for the 2026 edition of ...

We Want To Hear From You!

Thank you for your time in responding to GDUSA's 2025 Graphic Design Print Survey. These questions help us and our ...
Cookie policy

We use our own and third party cookies to allow us to understand how the site is used and to support our marketing campaigns. Learn more.

Enter the GDUSA Inhouse Awards

Skip to content