Designing Our Everyday World
不良研究所 Graphic Design Student Recognized at 2024 American Advertising Awards
By Devin Castillo
At the 不良研究所 School of Media and Design, the Graphic Design department supports and educates designers to intentionally create the way people see and experience the world around them. By using their creative vision to manufacture specifically curated designs that convey thoughts, concepts and emotions, graphic designers can connect with others in unique ways. The program’s curriculum is designed to “inspire every student to produce exceptional work in the hopes of producing award-winning students who become graduates with fulfilling careers (uiw.edu).”
Senior Graphic Design student Isabelle Shipley is just one of these remarkable graphic designers who is demonstrating her skillset both to the University and to the city of San Antonio.
Shipley has been an artist her entire life. Wanting to pursue a career that allowed her to continue to express and showcase her creative skills, she explored various fields of study offered at the University. After her search, she concluded that an education in Graphic Design was an excellent fit for her.
“I enjoy the creative process when starting a new project,” said Shipley. “When I get a new assignment, I start out seeing it as a picture in my head. Then I get to put that idea down into a computer and really get to refine it to make it look like what I imagined. It’s complicated to explain those early visions to others, so I especially like when I create something, and people get to visually see my idea come to life in front of them.”
In summer 2024, Shipley was unexpectedly asked to help with a big project before the start of her senior year. As a proud Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) with 55% of its student population coming from Hispanic or Latin descent, the University hoped to showcase special graphic designs in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. Knowing her experience in the program, they entrusted Shipley with creating the designs.
“It was a little nerve wracking, but I was also very honored to be asked to help,” shared Shipley. “I was super excited an