Joanna August
Q What do you do?
“I’m a Designer and Art Director focused on evolving brands through concept-driven and thoughtfully crafted design solutions.”
I specialize in Brand Identities, Art Direction, Web, User-Experiences, Motion, Packaging and Print.
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
I graduated with a Degree in Design from Rutger’s University and a Marketing Certificate from Parson’s School of Design where I then began my career in New York City working both in-house and within agencies developing and defining brands across a range of industries including tech, beauty, and fashion.
Q How do you stand out in your field?
With a background in Design and Marketing, I evolve brands through quality design and strategic thinking bringing a certain level of excellence to my work. I've worked with top tier brands and agencies designing work that is both impactful and relevant with a high return value.
Q What are you working on right now?
I am currently a Senior Visual Designer at Square but also work freelance as a Brand Designer.
Q What’s your style?
My style is timeless, clean and refined. I believe impactful design systems don’t have to be complicated and I focus on building foundations that are scalable and tailored to each client's needs. A strong vision requires cohesiveness and consistency in order to build credibility and distinction.
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
Brand Identities, Art Direction, User-Experiences
Q What is frustrating you right now?
I feel a frustration between practicality and aspiration within the design world. I believe having a balance of both is crucial and being able to fulfill client needs while also pushing them into a space that feels relevant and new can be a challenge especially when there are hesitations around change and evolution.
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
I would ask them to do all the misc tasks I don’t like doing so that I can spend more time doing the things I love. Some of these tasks include answering emails, doing my laundry and walking my dog.
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
I would tell my younger self to not stress out or sell yourself for less. Empower your strengths, work on your weaknesses, stay persistent and do it with grace.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
I would love to learn more about the business of design and how to better manage time, expectations, finance, and other practical tools that would allow me to operate more efficiently.
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
I’m looking for projects and clients that share a similar synergy in terms of taste, value, and passion. I love serving clients who have meaningful brand stories and share similar values.
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
My ideal client is expansive, collaborative, humble, and looks to push the status quo to create something unique, intentional, and impactful.
Q: What is your rate?
Branding - Starts at 5k
Web Designs - Starts at 5k
Motion Designs - Starts at 3k
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
Rest, Replenish, Laugh, Exercise, Explore
This member profile was originally published in May 2022, Updated in May 2024.