Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Rothberg.
Rachel, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I have been interested in art since I was a kid. My dad is an artist and some of my earliest memories were sitting with him in his studio while he painted. It wasn’t until I took an elective graphic design class in my senior year of high school that I became really interested in using the computer as a way to make art.
When I graduated high school, I didn’t think art as a career was very practical, so I went to a big state school to pursue a degree in marketing. A year and a half later, I ended up withdrawing from that school and enrolled at the University of Houston, as their Graphic Communications degree had been recommended to me as a competitive graphic design program.
After college, I worked at a few local firms where I honed my skills in typography, identity design, brand systems, environmental design and experimentation with the digital and physical environment. This curiosity led me to my current role as art director at Mouth Watering Media or MWM.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I think most creatives struggle with feelings of inadequacy or self-doubt and I am no exception. I used to wonder if I could make it in art school since I never took art classes growing up. Even after college, I remember being put in situations where I had absolutely no idea what I was doing or how to even begin.
Over time, I have grown with each job opportunity and have been fortunate to have been under the mentorship of strong female directors/partners who pushed me and brought out the confidence I have in my work. I hope to be the same example to the designers on my team.
Please tell us about MWM.
Mouth Watering Media is an interdisciplinary brand experience firm specializing in visual storytelling through design, software, and film. We create meaningful experiences that bring brands to life.
MWM has been primarily known for our web and video work, but we have expanded in the past few years to really focus on creating brands from the ground up and walking alongside our clients to provide them with avenues to speak their truth. I believe this is a key differentiator for our firm, especially in Houston. We have the capability to not only brand our clients but provide the technology to give them a wide array of brand experiences in the physical and digital realm. We are curious by nature and constantly looking at what is happening in these fields throughout the world.
I’m proud of our entire team and their flexibility to tackle a wide array of projects—from rebrands to interactive touch screen walls, we have people who are dedicated, detailed, and passionate about our clients (and our weekly team lunch).
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
I’m not entirely sure I would do anything differently. I believe that the timing was right for each stage of my career path, difficulties included. I’m grateful to be where I am and excited about my role in the future of Houston-based design. My focus is to create exceptional work, treat others with respect, and lead by doing.
Contact Info:
- Website: mouthwateringmedia.com
- Email: info@mouthwateringmedia.com
Image Credit:
Katie Sanchez
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