Today we’d like to introduce you to Margaret Alba.
Hi Margaret, 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?
For as long as I could remember, I knew I wanted to be an artist. Growing up, I pursued every opportunity for creative expression. I designed school dance flyers, built websites on the side, and entered art competitions. I never knew a life without creativity, but I did not know how to build my passion into a life-long career.
My parents have never seen a successful artist; they’ve only known the tale of a starving one. They strongly discouraged me to pursue a career as an artist, which was devastating to me as a teenager.
Under their guidance I pursued business marketing instead – and fortunately, I fell in love. I found the strategies I learned in marketing helped strengthen my thought process and my designs. Interning as the graphic designer for the university’s marketing department accelerated my development, as I worked with the programs and tools of a designer before ever taking a design class. I owe so much to the higher-ups in that department for preparing me for this career.
Today I am a multi-disciplinary designer who creates marketing materials for work and plays with new creative techniques for fun.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The biggest struggle was navigating my parents’ fear. My parents did not know where this road led and neither did I. I wanted to prove that my journey would be worth it – even if I couldn’t be entirely sure myself.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a multi-disciplinary designer that helps create unique and memorable experiences through marketing and making. With experience in digital design, 3D animation augmented reality, fiber arts and metalsmithing, I am always looking for creative solutions.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
Book Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert: Reminded me that creativity is playful and takes many forms.
App
Google Calendar: Keeps me organized. If it’s not on my Google Calendar, I won’t remember it.
Podcast
Hidden Brain: Helps me understand human behavior – which is relevant everywhere: from the workplace to design.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.margaretalba.com
- Instagram: @margaretalba
Image Credits
Hannah J. Kim Alexandra Gómez
