Today we’d like to introduce you to Aaron Christian.
Hi Aaron, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
My journey into graphic design and motion graphics has been a winding path and far from what I originally envisioned for myself. My artistic path was also influenced by my mother, who is an artist. It all started with a simple dream to start a clothing brand with a high school friend, which at the time seemed like the ultimate goal. We started launching a clothing brand and investing resources. However, when we discover that we lack marketing and design knowledge, we are faced with a harsh reality. Little did I know fate had other plans for me.
It was a tragic event that really solidified my commitment to this path. On November 14, 2019, a devastating shooting occurred in my community of Saugus High School. The aftermath has left our communities shattered and grieving. In the midst of this chaos, I felt a strong need to channel my emotions into something constructive. Not only did this happen in my neighborhood, but two of my neighbors were also victims of this incident. Using art as a form of expression comes naturally to me.
Utilizing emoji art, a language familiar to many young people, I began a project that would both honor the victims and provide a source of strength to our grieving community. I crafted a record album design that encapsulated the essence of our shared sadness and resilience. Through this endeavor, I not only improved my skills in Photoshop and Illustrator, but also discovered the profound impact art can have in fostering understanding and support during times of adversity.
After that, I worked really hard to build a strong portfolio to start applying to art schools. Of these, I was accepted into the top 5 and ultimately chose ArtCenter, attracted not only by its location in California but also by its vibrant business atmosphere. My association with the institution dates back to 2016, as I regularly visit its galleries. It was here that my design journey really flourished. I initially felt like a small fish in a huge pond of creativity in a community of creative and intelligent people. However, the stimulating environment and interactions with fellow artists stimulated my growth, learning, and overall development, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie. I literally felt like a kid in a candy store.
These experiences deeply connected me to the world of design and showed me the power that design has as a language of its own. It illuminates the potential of design to convey complex emotions and unite people in shared experiences. This realization strengthened my determination to pursue a career in design and pushed me forward on my way to college.
When I began my undergraduate journey at the Art Center, my knowledge of graphic design was limited. However, being immersed in traditional design principles at the Art Center changed my perspective and sparked my passion for craft. Through rigorous study and mentorship under respected designers, I delve into the intricacies of typography and book design, creating work that is both personally enriching and reflective.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Initially, when I entered the design industry, my sense of self and passion felt vague. My initial thoughts and influences led me to believe that art is simple. Many people think art should be simple. Absolutely not, especially in at ArtCenter.
My path to college has not been easy. Initially, I struggled to master the basics of typography, hierarchy, and color theory. It wasn’t until my third semester that I started to find my footing. Despite all this progress, I still struggled to define my true passion.
Before this turning point, I took a required course in basic motion design. Despite my initial reservations about my abilities, I found great joy in making animations synchronized to music, but I became discouraged because I thought my work was too simple. Encouraged by my peers, I decided to delve deeper into motion design.
I was irresistibly captivated by film’s storytelling, mastery of color, and precision of movement. I find deep satisfaction in the creative process of motion design, both in the execution and in the experience of witnessing the final product.
However, the journey has been far from smooth. I encountered setbacks that required me to redesign the project and invest countless hours in strengthening my skills in motion design. However, each challenge is a steppingstone to building a solid foundation in this fascinating field.
I was constantly worried about whether my projects were good. This would put me into grind mode, spending most of my time nitpicking every little detail, be it research or ideas. Sometimes, I need to make a trip to school at 5 am to finish my work. Meetings with professors and teammates always got me further as well.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
For me, coming to ArtCenter is like walking into a vibrant candy store. Surrounded by creative colleagues, I found myself immersed in an environment that allowed for a deeper understanding of how design impacts our thoughts, emotions, and actions. Exploring various mediums, such as packaging and transmedia, opened my eyes to the inherent beauty of commercial design and enriched my appreciation for its multi-faceted nature. I enjoyed every second of it.
Throughout my artistic journey I discovered a deep connection to the world motion graphics. The captivating power of storytelling, the artistry of color and the exquisite craft of film captivate me with their lasting appeal. I get a huge amount of satisfaction from the process of making movement and the experience of seeing it come to life. At the same time, my creative pursuits were fueled by my fascination with graphic branding and typography. I carefully refined the visual identity, enhanced typographic elements, and explored the subtle harmony between form and function.
This will make me a perfectionist, with ups and downs, but it enhances my attention to detail. In a recent collaboration on the main title design for Snowpiercer, I tackled the challenge of illuminating the cyclical nature of power shifts in society. This involves depicting a grand art gallery feast, representing the affluence of the upper classes, which gradually wanes as mass rebellion breaks out. While working with teammates improves teamwork skills, I often worry that I’m being too critical. I’m always asking, “What if this could be different? What if it could be shinier?” In a constant search for inspiration, I explore art galleries and school libraries looking for new ideas.
I believe what sets me apart is the depth of my passion; if it burns bright enough, I will pour my soul into its fire and spend every ounce of my being weaving dreams into reality.
Do you have any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
It was me and my childhood friend, who was three months younger than me. Today brought us a surprise. Our hard work at school earned us a surprise, and when the bell rang, we couldn’t wait to see what it was.
Back at my house, we watched as the garage door creaked open to reveal two sleek red BMX bikes with “Mongoose” stickers on them. We let out excited shouts and immediately took to the streets to feel the impact of the wind and sunshine.
We pedaled until we reached the outskirts of town, where the smooth road turned into a rough track. We tore through the dirt and laughed as we climbed over mountains and ridges. These two matching bikes are like twins to each other.
But our sense of adventure soon led us off the beaten path, and before we knew it, we were completely lost in a maze of trees and winding dirt roads. Despite the uncertainty, we couldn’t wipe the smiles off our faces and enjoyed the thrill of discovery.
As the afternoon sun began to dip below the horizon, we realized we had no idea where we were. But rather than panicking, we’re excited by the prospect of discovering new frontiers. With determination, we pressed on through dense foliage and rocky terrain.
After wandering for what seemed like an eternity, we stumbled upon a clearing. The sun sets in the west, coating everything with a layer of gold. I think that’s good. We stopped and watched for a while.
Feeling slightly rejuvenated, we got back on the bikes and continued our journey. There was a sense of accomplishment in the air as we pedaled forward, but honestly, we were just happy to be home. When the stars appeared in the sky, we finally found our way back. It wasn’t exactly what we planned, but it wasn’t too bad either. I thought it would be another day full of adventure and laughter.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.aaronchristian.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aaronrchristian/
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/aaron-christian-7b0489262
- Other: https://www.behance.net/aaronchristian5
Image Credits
Sydney Liao
