Gillian St. John
Art Director / Designer / Photographer
San Francisco, CA
www.gillianstjohn.com
instagram @gillianestjohn
Q What do you do?
“I am an Art Director, Designer & Photographer based in the Bay Area, CA. I work with brands big and small to help drive impact and connect with customers.”
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
A bit about me - I’ve been immersed in the design industry about six years now, with my undergrad degree in Graphic Design(BFA). I am currently an Art Director & Designer working both in house and freelance. I’m a work in progress(both figuratively and metaphorically), I love getting curious and am weirdly empathetic about everything.
Q How do you stand out in your field?
I’ve worked with clients large and small, from internationally recognized names like the Sundance Film Festival to innovative life style brands like Thread. No matter who I’m working with, my focus on design is rooted in engaging the consumer through impactful and expressive creative content that resonates.
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
I want my career and work to always align with my values. I am leaning more into the sustainability and health/wellness space as well as always working with bespoke and lifestyle brands.
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
Source and outreach for new clients! Or help me with keeping up on social media.
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
There's quite a few things I would like to tell my younger self in her schooling years/early career but ultimately it boils down to these:
1. It's so easy to feel imposter syndrome in our world of talented individuals, but remembering that your opinion and unique perspective is truly what's going to set you apart from everyone else in the field, so tell your story and take up space. I think it's so easy to feel imposter syndrome as well as not qualified for a lot of things especially early in your career, so just remember to allow yourself to be heard and don't be afraid to put yourself out there again and again.
2. Never stop getting inspired! Know what you are passionate about and keep exploring it. Passion is always going to lead to creating your best work.
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
I am open to three types of work:
1. Contracted monthly design services. Including brand design, art direction, web design, print design, etc.
2. Brand & content strategy & guides for new businesses/founders including brand style guides, logos/wordmarks, photography, website design, social temples, etc.
3. Campaign driven asset creation for existing brands including art direction, strategy, content, management, photography and design.
Q: What is your rate?
Each project is unique and requires a different scope. I would be happy to discuss your specific needs and work out the details from there.
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
Reach out to me at gillianestjohn@gmail.com with a simple detailed description of the project and I will get back to you as soon as I can!
This member profile was originally published in July 2024.