Today we’d like to introduce you to Celeste Rojas.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Celeste. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
These past four years, I decided to focus on what I wanted to do for the rest of my life which can be a frightening concept to grasp. I tackled many hobbies such as photography, making short films, poetry, writing, djing, and now graphic design. I challenged myself to see which hobby I loved more and most importantly, had more fun doing. Easily graphic design and DJing were the two hobbies that stuck with me.
Everything I’ve learned graphics wise is self-taught which I am very proud of, as well as learning how to DJ. Every day, I make sure to learn a new skill or practice on skills I’m currently struggling with.
I believe I got to where I am today by truly dedicating myself to my craft and the hobbies that makes me happy.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I would say it’s been a smooth road but not necessarily easy. I didn’t major in graphic design or get any type of schooling for it which at times made me doubt myself.
Then, I began taking control of the situation and teaching myself everything I needed to know. Every day, I make it a goal to learn something new or polish skills that I’ve already learned. YouTube easily became my best friend, it’s amazing how useful the internet can be now in days! I started to push myself further than a classroom and so far its been extremely rewarding. If you want something bad enough, you have to be able to put in the work and I’ve been doing just that.
As I started to get better, I wanted to start collaborating with other artists and bigger organizations, so I made my first gif. I made the gif without being asked and did it more to get noticed by this studio in New York called GUM Studios (Instagram handle: @gumstudios.) It’s a woman-owned broadcasting and media production company! Cool things like Nickelodeon has been shot there and an A$AP Rocky video! Long story short, I made the gif in hopes of getting their attention and I did! It took a little while but a couple of months later, the founder asked if she could post my gif on their page. I was so excited, all it took was a little patience.
I’m a huge advocate on taking the middle man out. If there’s something you want, go for it and aim straight for the source. Having that mentality has led me to so many great opportunities. I also did that for a women organization in Austin, Tx called Boss Babes! (Instagram handle: @bbatx) I made a graphic with their logo and tagged them in it which led to them posting it on their story and me collaborating with the founder Jane Clair on a zine! Opportunity is all around you, if there’s something you want to, go for it and don’t hold back.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I am a freelance Graphic Designer. I specialize in making flyers, animations, gifs, covers, etc. I am most proud of being able to help bring the client’s ideas to life! It’s so rewarding being able to help design something thats truly important to the client. In the past, I’ve been able to help with album covers, single covers, and a zine! Merging individuals art with my sprinkle of art is so fun and exciting to me.
I believe what sets me apart from other graphic designers is my style. I tend to use a lot of vibrant colors and motion in my graphics. I am constantly learning so if a client asks for something that I don’t know how to do I will learn! I am determined when it comes to learning something new. One time, I had someone ask me to do a rotating 3D text of their brand name and I didn’t know how at the time but I learned that same day. I was so proud of myself and a little taken back at the fact that I was able to learn so quickly.
I’m most proud of how far I push myself. I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for me putting in the work and truly dedicating myself to the things I love.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
In the future, I plan to join organizations, especially ones that specifically empower women! I recently moved to Austin and there is so much growth and opportunity to thrive in what I want to do. So far, I’ve been able to collaborate with amazing people who are beyond talented.
I’d also like to create my own organization at some point! Women empowerment is something I’m strongly passionate about. It’s important to create an environment where women feel safe and free to be whoever they please. It’s important to continue spreading awareness on certain topics and shine a light where women can be heard.
Lastly, I’d like to start making tee’s, stickers, pins, etc. w/ my graphics on them! Basically, anything that allows me to have creative freedom and share with the world.
Pricing:
- Flyers – $25
- Cover Art – $45
- Branding – $50
- GIFS – $45
Contact Info:
- Website: celeste-rojas.com
- Phone: 281-876-7271
- Email: lecsajorcreates@gmail.com
- Instagram: @lecsajorcreates
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