Cienna Newett
Q What do you do?
“I am a graphic designer who dabbles in motion graphics, and I enjoy incorporating playful elements into my work while also taking a meticulous approach to the design process.”
I strive to use my craft to unite people and create a sense of community through my work. While I prioritize design that speaks for itself, I understand that clear communication is key to delivering effective messages.
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
Having grown up with artist parents, I have always loved all things creative. However, it was at CalArts where I discovered my passion for design and the foundation that graphic design provides for any creative path.
Q How do you stand out in your field?
This is a great question that all creatives should ask themselves, as it helps us remember what we bring to the table. Over the years, I have learned that there will always be another designer or AI that can use the tools better than me. However, I firmly believe that people like to pay for experiences they enjoy and understand. My superpower is catering my projects to each individual client and helping them understand my design process through and through.
Q What are you working on right now?
Currently, I am enjoying the in-between. In between full-time work, I am learning to find meaning and worth outside of design. I am also working on defining my creative principles. Specifically, I am reading a great book called "The Perfectionist's Guide to Losing Control" by Katherine Morgan Schafler. I appreciate how this book dissects criticism, specifically for women who identify as perfectionists versus men.
Q What’s your style?
I always look for projects that have that unique look. I love when there’s an element, or color scheme or insight of a design I haven’t seen anywhere else. I understand that everything is recycled, but when people take their unique perspective and bring it into their work I can always tell. One example I can think of is the fabulous Virgil Abloh. He inspires me to think of myself beyond a graphic designer which is what ultimately creates unique projects. I don’t need to master a skill before trying it out in a project. His background in architecture is what makes his fashion style so interesting.
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
My favorite personal projects involve my immediate circle and community. I believe that design and art are a gift above all else, and if money were no object, I would spend my time designing fun experiences for my friends and clients.
Q What is frustrating you right now?
Finding clever ways to push a client's idea. Sometimes clients and companies are really tight in their style or concepts and as a young designer it's hard to push my ideas through sometimes.
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
Easy. I'd have them negotiate my salary for me. I dread money talk, but I'm getting better at it.
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
Well, I’d honestly rather tell myself something I need to hear now. Cienna, everything is going to work out better than you imagined and there is an exciting future ahead. I constantly need this reminder multiple times a day.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
If I had the chance, I would take any and all advice from Virgil Abloh. If there is or was a design God, he is mine.
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
I am intrigued by projects that allow me to experiment with motion graphics and stay playful. I enjoy bringing people together and creating a sense of community through design, so I'm drawn to branding because I like to ideate ways to attract people to a brand. I'm most interested in projects that enable me to flex my creativity and perspective to create something truly original and impactful.
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
I think my dream job right now would be to create motion graphics for a concert or dance performance.
Q What is your rate?
For clients who prefer an hourly rate, my range is $60 - $80/hr depending on if I am doing motion work. However in an ideal world, I give a full-scale estimate which allows me to delegate my own hours and deliver higher quality work.
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
I am a big fan of the design group h3l
behance.net/h3l
h3lag.com
I think they are just fully their own and prioritize process in all their projects.
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
I let myself feel burnt out and uninspired. It always comes back.
This member profile was originally published in March 2023