Angel Melgar Canchari

FASHION INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (FIT)

Angel Joan Melgar Canchari is a Peruvian non-binary graphic designer. They like for their work to be an encapsulation of their person, determination and care to detail. They currently freelance. They don’t like to talk in third person. Set to graduate 2024 with a Graphic Design BFA. angelcmelgarc.com

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?

Definitely cyberpunk, mecha and maximalism. I love books that collect works of fantasy artists or punk flyers. Being surrounded by fellow designers whose qualities and forms of decision-making I can’t replicate but admire. I take it as healthy competition to be “the best”. This is an illusion, but it makes me evolve. Also knowing that I am doing all this to move up and provide more for myself and my partner.

WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?

I’ve always loved punk music and, in fact, my pull into graphic design was wanting to design posters, albums and be involved in the music scene. I want to specialize in print and web; my intent behind web design is that it needs more disruption and individuality. Rethink how a website should look, like, don’t be lazy.

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

Nothing will break me, there’s always an after. By that I do not mean to relax, but to not amputate creativity based on time constraints or what you don’t know now; to push as much as humanly possible.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD? EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

Graphic designers: James Rönkkö, Robin Roche and Bráulio Amado.

DO YOU FEEL THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS PREPARED YOU TO SEARCH FOR AND FIND A JOB?

It has given new connections, built my confidence and anticipation to use my skill, and to understand my physical limits. I don’t just want a job but a legacy.