Design Projects

Balance

For this project, balance—symmetrical, asymmetrical, and radial—was explored through an anime and manga-inspired composition. Procreate was used on an 8.5” x 11” canvas, which was later resized to 625 pixels. Texturing brushes and various shapes were experimented with throughout the process. The design was ultimately centered around a dragon, with its flowers used to symbolize the division between good and evil. This choice reinforced both crystallographic and asymmetrical balance through repeated patterns and contrasting colors.

During the ideation phase, different concepts were explored, ranging from serene landscapes to symbolic bubbles representing memories. Rectangles and circles were incorporated to structure the final composition. A large rectangle was initially used as the focal point, but it was later replaced with a triangle to create a more dynamic effect. The contrast in shape and color was utilized to strengthen balance and storytelling.

Although no major feedback was received, confidence in the execution was maintained. Adjustments in shading and arrangement were made to enhance the composition’s stability, while the dragon’s placement served to unify the design. The final result aligns perfectly with the intended vision, and no changes would be made.

Color and Culture

Colombia’s Barranquilla Carnival is celebrated as a vibrant display of dance, music, and tradition, dominated by bright, warm colors. Inspired by its energy, a composition was created showcasing a dancing couple in traditional attire, emphasizing movement and cultural expression.

Procreate was used to design the piece on an 8.5” x 11” canvas, which was later resized to 625 pixels. Marker and tip-top brushes were employed, with flowing lines applied to highlight the motion of the woman’s dress. Double complementary colors set against a black background allowed the bright hues to stand out, while the man’s solid color was used to keep the focus on the woman.

Various concepts were explored in the sketching phase, including color symbolism and traditional motifs, ensuring cultural respect. Bold reds and yellows were incorporated for the figures, with shadows rendered in muted tones to enhance depth. Based on the professor’s feedback, refinements were made to the dress, and the man’s outline was simplified for clarity.

In the final piece, the festival’s essence was captured through dynamic colors and movement. Although confetti and fireworks were considered, a black background was ultimately chosen to maintain focus. The project presented challenges with intricate line work, but the outcome is satisfying, and no further changes are deemed necessary.

Meet Up?

Meet Up is a dynamic social platform that bridges the gap between virtual and real-life interactions. I designed this app during Fall 2024 as part of a user-centered design project. The idea was sparked by a recurring frustration I noticed among peers: staying socially connected after COVID became harder, especially with shifting preferences between in-person and virtual interactions. Many people struggled to coordinate plans that suited everyone’s comfort levels and schedules.

The motivation behind Meet Up was to create a solution that embraces hybrid socializing—not just as a pandemic workaround, but as a new norm. I wanted to support meaningful connections for people who toggle between online convenience and offline experiences. To better understand user needs, I conducted qualitative research using the AEIOU framework—observing environments like student lounges and dorms where casual meetups happen.

The app’s core features—customizable event settings, interactive planning tools (like polls and availability calendars), and smart recommendations—were ideated through a mix of affinity mapping and user storyboarding. I focused on designing with adaptability in mind, ensuring users could switch effortlessly between online and offline modes. Meet Up ultimately aims to simplify planning and deepen social bonds, no matter where or how people choose to connect.