Design Feast Series: Designer’s Quest(ionnaire)

Veronica Corzo-Duchardt

Designer and Artist

Packaging design for Future Perfect

Primary design concentration:

Visual Communication

Most preferred tools for designing:

My Brain

Prints of Neche Collection

How and why did you choose to become a designer?

I chose to become a graphic designer after I took a desktop publishing class during my sophomore year in college. It could have been the sex appeal of QuarkXPress, but something clicked for me in that class. Putting pieces together to solve a puzzle or tell a story. I never looked back.

What are some of the challenges you encounter as a designer and how do you deal with them?

I think sometimes it’s hard for people to understand what you do. I think that’s where the dreaded question “oh what program do you use?” comes from. I’ll admit, I also hate that question, but I can see why people ask it, they are trying to relate it to something they know or have heard of.

Packaging design for Wonderwall Wines

What is your definition of an “elegant solution,” that is, good design?

This is a tough one. An elegant design solution, that solves a problem in a beautiful way.

From skills to values, what makes a designer successful?

I think it’s a combination of luck, hard work and taking risks. The truth is that most “successful” designers are out there hustling, and that doesn’t really stop. I’m not talking about running yourself into the ground. I don’t believe that this is a good way to live, but I mean making shit happen—taking opportunities when they come your way and making your own when they don’t. They may not always work out, but that is part of the learning process. And if your not constantly learning, what’s the point?

Commemorative book for Chicago Ideas Week 2012

How do you stay motivated and grow personally and professionally as a designer?

We all have our ups and downs. I think that’s part of the creative process. But I’m always looking, listening, observing and reading. I’m always hungry for more. I’m a dork who loves reading or hearing about other people’s process, and I’m always trying to improve my own. Another huge aspect of my growth and motivation is due to the company I keep. I have a great community of designers and artists that both support me and push me to go further.

For those aspiring to become a designer, whatever the discipline, what is your advice?

Give a shit. I feel very grateful that I get to do what I love for a living. I’m always surprised when I hear students or other designers complaining about doing work. I don’t get that, I mean, we get to design stuff. That’s pretty damn awesome. If you are resentful about doing the work, get out of the way.

Surround yourself with creative people who motivate you. It’s really important to find people that support and challenge you to make better work.

Exhibit of Neche Collection at Public Works gallery

What is your quest in design, from a professional practice, education or evolution standpoint?

My quest is to create beautiful, meaningful work that inspires and connects.

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