Janel Lucia
WHAT DO YOU DO?
“I aim to create design people feel connected to, I specialize in human centered design, branding, website design, editorial design (books & magazines), and type-led graphic design. ”
I follow emotional design principles to put users at ease and understand their needs, my values are “Love More” and “Lead with Simplicity” these provide a motivational foundation for all the work I produce
WHAT STEPS DID YOU TAKE TO GET TO WHERE YOU ARE NOW?
I’ve been designing since 2016, I started creating logos and websites for people in my network and after designing for a year, I became interested in coding, I completed Hacker You’s full time front-end bootcamp and then their UX course. After that, I got some great opportunities to work under some amazing designers where I learned so much about simplicity, elegance, and telling a story through design. Now, my clients and I work as a team to deliver compelling brands & products through collaboration and storytelling.
How do you stand out in your field?
My work is rooted in research, collaboration and feedback. I stay curious, use history as my superpower, and I obsess over small details.
WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON RIGHT NOW?
Right now, I’m working on an identity for musical artist. I’m also working on some packaging for a new and exciting hair studio.
WHAT'S YOUR STYLE/PERSPECTIVE/TASTE? DO YOU HAVE A PROJECT THAT REPRESENTS THIS?
I can't say I have one distinct style. I am constantly molding to meet my clients' needs. I love working with brands who appreciate simplicity and elegance, and who want to tell a story.
WE ARE ALL SLASHIES WITH MULTIPLE SKILLS, WHICH ONE DO YOU WISH YOU COULD DO MORE OFTEN?
I'd love to do more editorial print work, like books and magazines.
WHAT IS FRUSTRATING YOU RIGHT NOW?
Keeping my plants alive is a constant struggle.
IF YOU COULD HIRE SOMEONE FOR $20/HR, WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE THEM DO TO MAKE YOUR DAY EASIER?
Edit my sites copy. I love to tell a story but I’m a horrible speller.
LET'S BRING OUT THE TIME MACHINE. WHAT DO YOU WISH YOU COULD HAVE TOLD YOURSELF, WHEN, AND WHY?
Sometimes you win, sometimes you learn.
IF YOU COULD TALK TO AN EXPERT TO GAIN MORE INSIGHT ON SOMETHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE ABOUT?
I love connecting with designers who make meaningful things. There is so much to learn—I find that speaking with others in my field can be enlightening.
WHAT KIND OF OPPORTUNITIES/PROJECTS ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?
I'm always looking to collaborate. Specifically brand and product related work.
DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL JOB/CLIENT/COLLABORATION.
My most positive past relationships have been born out of honest collaboration. My ideal client has a love for what they are doing—and is excited to create a brand that inspires.
WHAT IS YOUR HOURLY RATE, RETAINER, OR SALARY RANGE?
My rate changes depending on project and needs. Let's talk— hello@janellucia.com
HOW SHOULD SOMEONE APPROACH YOU ABOUT WORKING TOGETHER?
Send me an email if you're interested in working together. If you're in Toronto, let's get coffee hello@janellucia.com
HOW DO YOU STAY CREATIVE?
Meditation, sleep & stepping outside
This member profile was originally published in December 2019.