DEPAUL UNIVERSITY
Tayvia Ridgeway is a junior at DePaul University, earning her BFA in Graphic Design with a minor in Illustration. She has always had a passion for visual arts and has expanded her range of work using digital media. As a fine art student, first and foremost, Tayvia incorporates traditional art styles and transforms them into a contemporary and clean aesthetic. Her illustrative qualities have an immense influence over her collective style. Tayvia utilizes her designs as a vessel for self-expression and representation of otherwise unseen communities. In her personal exploration, she gravitates towards depictions of minority and female figures to highlight the importance of marginalized peoples deserving their space in today’s graphic design world. Professionally, she has created graphic advertisements for DePaul’s Athletic Department and has branded her small business beauty brand TAIGA ROSE, included logos, website media, packaging, and accessory products.
IF THERE WERE NO BARRIERS AND CONSTRAINTS, WHAT PROJECT WOULD YOU WANT TO WORK ON?
If I had no constraints, my dream project would be to design and install a gallery exhibition at The Art Institute of Chicago. I would also be interested in creating a large-scale mural in Chicago’s downtown loop area
WHAT ARE YOU READING/LISTENING TO/WATCHING?
I am watching the Hulu show The Great, a comedic satire on the takeover of the Russian empire by Catherine the Great. It recently released its second season, and it is absolutely hilarious!
WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD?
As a female designer and person of color, I value the voice of Sylvia Harris within the Graphic Design community. She has used her skill in design to positively improve the urban communities around her. I identify with her and aim to be just as impactful as her in my career.