VERMONT COLLEGE OF FINE ARTS (VCFA)
Kyla is a graphic designer based in New York City. She received her undergraduate degree from Rhode Island School of Design and has worked for companies including World Wrestling Entertainment and HBO. After spending years designing on-demand aesthetic formulas for specific audiences, she has become interested in reconstructing her design practice to make space for more critical approaches. As a design educator at St. John’s University, she encourages students to define their own approach to design through durational making and experimentation. Raised by a cast ensemble of fierce Italian Americans, she believes that design is like a Sunday dinner — a labor of love and care that transcends commercial placements. She will always make room for dessert.
WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?
Inspiration tends to strike when I’m shopping for vegetables at the grocery store, reading a book outside of my studies, watching TV, or going out to dinner with friends. It always helps to exchange ideas with peers, view and read about new work, and find time to get my ideas onto paper.
WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?
I’m currently redefining what my practice looks like along with helping students shape their own. The field is plentiful: I’m interested in designing identities, exploring type design, and working alongside product designers to create thoughtful digital experiences.
WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?
Going back to design school was transformative. Our abilities are expansive and, often, the person who needs to understand what’s behind your work the most is yourself.
[stwfoot pyear=2023 pslot=59]
