Gwen O'Brien
Q What do you do?
“I help bring someone’s vision to life, whether it’s a brand, a product, a website, or their social presence.”
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
Right out of art/design college, I dove into the web and software design. And I fell in LOVE! Shortly after, I started my own design studio, Plenty Creative, an all-female design studio that I absolutely loved running for over a decade. Now, I’m working on a variety of projects solo, including working an amazing tech startup and handful of other fun projects in beauty and culture.
Q How do you stand out in your field?
I love to connect with the overall vision, the big picture, to make sure I really get where we want to go! Let’s tell the story and paint the picture. Then, of course, how can we do that in a new and interesting way?
Q What are you working on right now?
Right now, I’m designing a cool new website and social presence for a tech startup that focuses on collecting culture.
Q What’s your style?
Modern minimalist with maximalist touches! I love drama and flair within an organized framework—I adore a beautiful, simple, and elegant foundation—then let the chaos reign!
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
I like to be a part of the strategy and big picture. Branding in all aspects: from creating a new name and logo, to designing and building the website, social, advertising … I like to have my hands all parts of the project. Especially when I’m directing others or bringing in the right talent.
Q What is frustrating you right now?
Currently, I’m learning Spanish, astrology, piano, and brushing up on my life drawing skills. And there’s still so much more I want to learn!
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
Organize and plan my personal posts and projects! Usually, that is the last place that I spend my energy.
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
I wish I told myself when I was a teenager in art school, RELAX! Do you want you LOVE! Everything is going to be okay. It's still true today. :)
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
I’d love more insight on working with AI animation. I’ve been dabbling in AI artwork for a while now and would love some expert advice on taking it to the next level.
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
I’m looking to work with fun people on fun projects! I love to work on everything branding—strategy, mood, tone, social, website, packaging, you name it.
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
My ideal client would be someone with a new idea that they are passionate about it—and values me as their collaborator in bringing their idea to life.
Q What is your rate?
I typically charge based on the project, depending on the overall scope and complexity. I’m also open to working with solopreneurs and non-profits at discounted rates.
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
Just drop me a note with a few details and let’s go!
Q Who is a creative you admire?
My good friend and internet sensation, Paul Octavious. A delightful designer and creative genius.
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
Living in Miami, the beach, looking at the sky.
This member profile was originally published in Janurary 2024