Today we’d like to introduce you to Rebecca Northup
Hi Rebecca, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey into a creative professional career has been unique. I studied fine arts and literature in college at UCSC and expected creative opportunities to flood in from my degree alone, but I was sorely mistaken when I found myself working a restaurant job on weekends and a 9-5 as an assistant (in aerospace no less) on weekdays just to make ends meet. From there, I was able to branch into PA work at a creative agency, where I then was trained in graphic design and photo editing. I worked in production art there until I started my now job as a graphic designer in the music industry. Of course, this whole time I have been creating on my own both freelance and for fun, but professionally landing where I am now has been a 4-year-long uphill battle.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Well, as I said it has been an uphill battle, but it has been very rewarding. Without the steps I had to take, I wouldn’t have the knowledge I have now. For example, had I not learned professional photo retouching at my last job, I would not have been able to complete some of the exciting projects I have been given in my current position. In that way, everything has happened in the order it did for a reason and I am grateful for that hindsight.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a graphic designer, painter, and illustrator. I run an Etsy shop out of which I sell stickers that are Valley-themed (as a proud Valley Girl). On top of that, I am a graphic designer at Global Tour Creatives, where I help design and produce (mostly) Live Nation tour art. I work directly with venues and marketers to promote music/comedy tours. I think what sets me apart in the graphic design world is my illustration and painting background. I think my knowledge there allows me a leg up when it comes to space, color, and composition.
Over the last year, I was able to create merch at GTC for Aespa’s newest tour, and I was one of the main designers working production on Beyonce’s 2025 Cowboy Carter tour. It has been a thrill to be a part of the marketing for artists I truly admire. Another rewarding project I designed for were the backstage walls for the FireAid benefit show at the Forum, which was a truly remarkable experience to work on and attend.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
Please feel free to reach out to me through the contact section on my website if you want to chat! And a final piece of advice is that even if the steps to get into a creative career are lateral, it doesn’t make them any less important as long as you continue to learn from them. I am still learning and will continue to for the remainder of my career.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.rebeccanorthup.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelsurrrreal?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
