Breaking The Barrier
Typography plays a crucial role in the way humans perceive information from any sort of text. However, what we associate with both the print and digital world, used to be a specialized craft which was highly exclusive and limited to certain professions, given this discipline was based on handicraft practices. Moving forward to the 1980s and 90s, rapid advances in digital computer hardware and software radically altered the craft of typography. Digital computers placed typesetting tools into the hands of individual designers, resulting in a period of experimentation where new, unusual typefaces were seen.
The Digital Revolution plays a pivotal role in democratizing typography and making it more accessible for designers, as it provides opportunities for designers to create expressive typefaces.
Jessica Padilla is a multi-disciplinary creative based in Washington D.C. She tackles multiple aspects of graphic design, including publication, packaging, motion graphics, branding and typography. Jessica takes these concepts and creates stunning narratives in her designs, that makes the viewer think beyond what they already know about a particular subject. She seeks to find solutions that leave lasting outcomes for the better and benefit her community in the long run.
Jessica Padilla, "Breaking the Barrier," NEXT '22
"Breaking the Barrier"
"Breaking the Barrier" Intro Spread
"Breaking the Barrier" Interview 4
"Breaking the Barrier" Quote 3
"Breaking the Barrier" FashionShow 2
Jessica Padilla, Graphic Design (B.F.A.)
Washington D.C.At a young age, I became enthralled with the idea of using my nimble hands to create vivid pieces, as I experimented with multiple mediums, including colored pencils, markers, charcoal, and acrylic paint to express my emotions. Considering nature and all of its aspects as my inspiration, I allow my hands to cultivate authentic, everchanging pieces. What enamors me with nature is that it does not need much to be one of its kind; from flowers, rocks, to leaves of all kinds, each object is unique and possesses beauty and functionality. Similar to how these organic objects acclimate to many environments, I am able to adapt in any situation and apply a free-flowing mindset when I design.
I enjoy seeking solutions to complex problems, and utilizing visuals to communicate messages, so when I found that graphic design combines my two interests, I never thought twice. I knew that I wanted to continue pursuing my passion for art, but it sealed the deal for me when I took a combination of intensive science/math and drawing classes in high school.
Growing up in Washington D.C,, a tiny city filled with diverse cultures and personalities, I recognize that there is no “one-size fits all” solution to represent the needs of groups who face different problems. Most of my designs are driven by social causes and community-based issues, where using my eye for wit, I incorporate “play-on” words and statements to my pieces to enhance their messages. I consider my design style to be intentional/simplistic. The reason I chose to delve into graphic design is because it plays a pivotal role to enact social change, something I aspire to engage and change as I immerse myself in different environments.