Today we’d like to introduce you to Chynna Monforte.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Chynna. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
One day, my mom came home with a giant HTML textbook from work. I was around 11-12 years old and started reading through it, fascinated. I really just wanted to customize my Neopets guild page, which turned into customizing my personal MySpace page, which turned into what I do now, which is less coding and more design-based. At that time, I was always editing graphics in MS Paint and generally doing digital visual work since the days of dial-up internet. When I got to high school, this turned into pro Photoshop classes and then community college where I learned how to make book layouts and art catalogues. Design has been a wonderful practical tool for me to express myself visual artistic self, aside from printmaking, collaging, and teaching.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I think when we look at the obvious challenges like financial stress, gentrification, being a Latinx woman of color making a fraction to the dollar compared to other groups including all other minorities- a big struggle for me is mental. Fear is crippling and awaiting every creative. We face the inevitable- “Is my work good enough? Can I really call myself an artist? How do I measure success? When success comes, how do I handle it? How do I beat imposter syndrome? How can I protect myself?” These are some of the struggles I face and must address with strength and resiliency on a day to day. But art is healing for myself and the communities I work with, so I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about @chynna.design – what should we know?
I am a freelance artist and web designer specializing in custom Squarespace sites for non-profits, creatives, and small businesses. In addition to web design and graphic design, I facilitate community art workshops and create content for an arts non-profit. My specialty is social justice and community-based organizations. By working with folx that have similar values, we set a common ground and a more personal working relationship. Being able to build these types of relationships with clients is something I am eternally grateful for. I not only bring experience and a positive attitude but a wide range of skills. I can make your logo, your flyer, website, hang your art and make a catalogue, or print the t-shirts. I like learning and applying all levels of the process to these collaborative projects.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Success means working with respect, integrity, honesty, and flexibility. And on a personal level- time management. I set time aside for client projects as well as my own personal passions.
Pricing:
- Custom Website – Starts at $500
- Photoshoots begin at $150
Contact Info:
- Website: www.chynna.design
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/chynna.design
Image Credit:
Devonte Johnson image credit on the outdoor shoot
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