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Hello and Good moring

I’m a creative driven by curiosity and visual storytelling. With formal training from two design schools and experience in both design and business, my work is rooted in craft but fueled by imagination. Inspiration comes from everywhere city streets, travel, comics, animation, and late night gaming sessions. When I’m not working on multimedia projects, you’ll find me sketching, building Gundam models, or exploring new places with a creative eye. For me, creativity isn’t something I clock in and out of it’s a constant process of observing, learning, and building.

Smiling man with dark hair
Stylized tiger head drawing, text label 'Cat'

My Story

I started with a sketchbook and a pencil, disappearing for hours into drawings that felt bigger than the page. As a kid, I studied everything buildings, packaging, animation, anime, comic books, video games, the way light hit objects, the way technology and science shaped design. Inspiration was everywhere, and without realizing it, I was building a visual library in my head that still fuels my work today.

 

That early obsession with drawing evolved into a full multimedia practice. What once lived in sketchbooks now moves across screens, print, and physical space. I work at the intersection of video, graphic design, photography, and illustration translating ideas into visuals that feel intentional, cinematic, and alive. From capturing real moments through a lens to designing bold graphics or crafting visual stories in motion, every project begins the same way it always has: with curiosity and a drive to create something that leaves an impression.

 

My creative world started with pencil lines and imagination. Today it runs through cameras, software, print machines, and motion timelines but the core is the same. I’m still that kid drawing for hours, just working on a much larger canvas.

Collage

I attended two colleges to build a strong foundation in both video and graphic design. My first degree focused on video and animation, where I developed a deep understanding of visual storytelling, motion, and editing. This training strengthened my ability to communicate ideas through cinematic visuals and narrative structure.

I later continued my education in graphic design, which elevated my creative process and expanded my skills in branding, layout, and visual communication. Combining both video and graphic design has allowed me to approach projects with a well-rounded multimedia perspective.

In addition, I completed coursework in business and web design, giving me a stronger understanding of how design functions in today’s market and what modern businesses need from creative professionals. This combination of creative and business knowledge helps me create work that is both visually strong and strategically effective.

Two mugs with logos, one 'A', one 'Northeastern Illinois University'

NEIU Wall art

Person painting a yellow mural on a blue wall
Person painting a yellow mural on a blue wall
Artist painting an urban mural of reaching figures under a bridge

I had the privilege of contributing to a large wall mural near NEIU El Centro, where I volunteered my Saturdays for about a month to help bring the piece to life. Watching the mural evolve from concept to finished artwork was an incredibly rewarding experience. It was my first opportunity to work on a largescale public mural, and collaborating with other designers and artists made the project even more meaningful. The experience allowed me to connect with the creative community while contributing to a piece of art that lives in a public space.

Mural with yellow and red figures under a train bridge
Artist on a ladder painting a yellow and blue mural

Being part of AIGA has allowed me to continue learning new techniques and stay current with the evolving world of print and paper production. Through after work workshops and professional development events, I’ve strengthened my graphic design skills, explored print materials more deeply, and connected with other passionate designers. From freelance focused classes to hands on print sessions, the AIGA community has helped me grow, refine my craft, and stay engaged with the design industry.

Hands sorting colorful books and prints on a table
Man presenting to a group in front of a rainbow-striped screen
Crowd listening to a speaker by a rainbow screen

AIGA, the American Institute of Graphic Arts, is a leading organization dedicated to advancing design as a professional craft, strategic advantage, and cultural force. It sets industry standards, promotes ethical practices, and provides resources across graphic design, typography, interaction design, and user experience. Through events, exhibitions, and ongoing professional development, AIGA supports both emerging and established designers, helping creatives stay connected, informed, and prepared for the evolving challenges of the design industry.

AIGA

Inspiration hero

One of the most inspiring moments in my design journey was attending a workshop with Aaron Draplin. His bold design style and honest approach to the creative life deeply connected with me. Seeing how he built his career and stayed true to his voice made me reflect on my own path.

There were moments when I questioned whether design was the right direction, but after learning from his workshop and reading his book, I realized I had been on the right path all along. His work continues to influence my style, my mindset, and my commitment to creating with purpose.

Aaron draplin design book
Ownership note with 'CRISTIAN! Stay Strong!' and 'DO NOT LOSE THIS BOOK.'
Two men smiling, bearded man in a cap

Always growing and learning

Growth is part of my creative process. I continue to attend workshops and study new techniques, always looking for ways to sharpen my skills and evolve as a designer. The creative field never stands still, and neither do I.

Sign for Paper Show event between wooden slat walls

Paper Show

Study of print paper and shops

Event stage with screen showing #IMakeALiving, a couch, and armchair

FRESHBOOKS

A event for all freelancer and creative 

Conference speaker on stage at WPPI The Portrait Summit

WPPI

A event of Phtography study in las vegas

Event setup with Adobe banner, screen, projector, and chairs

ADOBE

a commuinty of creative designer 

My work has been featured across a range of publications in both print and digital media. This includes drone photography, event photography, architectural photography, and Adobe Illustrator artwork that has appeared on magazine covers.My projects have been published in outlets such as the Niles Journal and the Chicago Tribune, as well as in lifestyle and luxury publications including Modern Luxury Magazine and The Ritz-Carlton Chicago Magazine. Additional features include local publications like Discover Niles and The Academy Rush.These opportunities have allowed my creative work to reach broader audiences and reflect the range of multimedia design and photography I produce.

Featured in prints

Magazine spread for Burdeen's Jewelry store
Newspaper: Niles Launches Renovated Teens Center
Venom vs Venom magazine and Student Portfolio page
Discover Niles 50 Years directory and Blue Penguin Photos credit
Magazine page: 'ABOUT TOWN' article with jewelry and people

Elevate Your light

From photography talks to hands-on lighting workshops, I continue to place myself in rooms where creatives share their stories and techniques. I’ve attended Westcott lighting sessions, networking events, and even received a private invitation to photograph my first Chicago event connecting with photographers who run their own creative ventures. Each experience adds another layer to my journey as a multimedia creative working across photography, video, and design.

Woman presenting a "Thank You" slide with QR code and "Free Guides" to an audience.
Photo studio with Capture One retouching banner and screen
Audience watching a speaker on a large screen
Man holding camera at WPPI 2025 Las Vegas event

Building Strong Future

My photography is shaped by my background in graphic design and video, so I’m always thinking about composition, layout, and story when I shoot. Some of my work has appeared in magazines and newspapers, and I continue to push myself by capturing small moments at events and exploring personal projects.

 

I may not claim to have mastered everything yet, but I’m always learning, always improving, and always creating. The journey hasn’t been perfect, but it’s been meaningful. Every challenge, every mentor, and every creative connection has helped build the skills I carry today. I’m grateful for the path I chose and the creative life I continue to grow into.

Woman in an ornate off-the-shoulder red gown with a flowing skirt
Two women, one dark-skinned in black dress, one blonde in light patterned outfit
Bearded man in fantasy costume conjuring bubbles
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