PRINCIPAL + CREATIVE DIRECTOR LISA CAIN DESIGN, CHICAGO IL
Growing up, Lisa Cain always knew she would do something creative in life. Before she was old enough, she entered those kitschy “draw-the-pirate” art school promos in the TV Guide. Those early days inspired her to explore creativity of all kinds. Now with 20 years of professional experience, Lisa has led the design and development of branding, identity, publications, interactive media, and promotion for a variety of healthcare, wellness, and research organizations. Over the years, Lisa’s fresh, results-driven design has earned several GDUSA American Graphic Design Awards. Her design firm has enjoyed steady growth since its start in 1996, cultivating lasting relationships with clients like the American Society of Nephrology, Drexel University, Organization for Autism Research, American Association of Neurological Surgeons, and Society of Critical Care Medicine. Lisa’s special focus is an assortment of projects impacting the autism community ‒ a cause she holds near and dear. She supports this effort by designing eye-opening projects like an autism “curriculum in a box” to promote peer acceptance, awareness campaign logos and websites, and the graphic identity for Drexel University’s Life Course Outcomes Research Program. When she’s not busy creating innovations, Lisa Instagrams her family dog (@Bear.Dood) and enjoys photography.
WHERE OR HOW DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION FOR YOUR DESIGN WORK?
I find inspiration through everyday life ‒ looking at billboards, TV commercials, my kids’ art projects and my husband’s jokes. Yes, I’ve even found inspiration in the pediatrician’s waiting room. Ultimately, I am open to inspiration wherever it comes from.
HOW DOES WHERE YOU WERE BORN, GREW UP OR LIVE NOW AFFECT YOUR DESIGN SENSIBILITY OR STYLE?
I was born in Chicago. I spent my teenage years in a Chicago suburb where I still reside. Chicagoland holds so many gems: great architecture, diversity, and wonderful opportunities. I feel fortunate to live amid such inspirational surroundings. They definitely influence my design style, which I consider clean and contemporary.
FAVORITE COLOR?
Glitter
FAVORITE TYPEFACE?
Gotham
FAVORITE TV SHOW?
Svengoolie, Orange is the New Black
FAVORITE BOOKS?
Virgin Cure, Heft
FAVORITE MOVIES?
Dope, Breakfast at Tiffany’s
FAVORITE MUSICIANS OR BANDS?
Mitsuko Uchida, Sia
FAVORITE SOCIAL MEDIA?
Instagram
FAVORITE FINE ARTISTS?
Picasso, Klee
GREATEST STRENGTH/WEAKNESS AS A DESIGNER?
Strength is spinning 20 plates at once. Weaknesses are chocolate and illustration skills.
TALENT YOU WISHED YOU POSSESSED?
Teleportation
ADVICE TO A YOUNG DESIGNER JUST STARTING OUT?
Master your style
IF NOT A DESIGNER, WHAT WOULD YOU BE?
Art Teacher
A MANTRA OR SAYING YOU LIVE BY?
Do everything in love
