Thanks for talking with us Amir!
So how did you get into design?
Drawing has always been a passion of mine, but when I went to college I had no knowledge of what graphic design even was. I tried to use my drawing skills to my advantage, and I quickly started to love graphic design. Since college, I’ve tried to always push myself to learn and grow as a designer.
And what are your ties to Richmond?
I was born in New York where most of my family is from. But I was raised in Richmond for most of my life. Playing basketball growing up helped me experience a lot of the city, but I am most familiar with the West End. Throughout the years, I have made it a focus to get to know and make connections in different areas in the city.
what is your favorite part of Richmond?
My favorite part of the city would have to be downtown. With VCU slowly taking over the city’s landscape, areas like Manchester (Hull St) and Scott’s Addition are really changing. As a designer, I love seeing all of the new designs and branding for businesses in those areas.
So why take on this project with LocalWear and what inspired your designs?
The LocalWear project has been a fun one for me because it gave me a chance to create designs that I would wear to represent the city. My inspiration for each design was simple: What would I buy or wear in other places besides Richmond? I wanted to be proud to explain where I was from and show off my shirts. I wouldn’t name my designs since I think they explain themselves and I like to leave room for the viewer to interpret.
tell me about your day job…
I have been a freelance designer for 6 years and am beginning my 3rd year full time with my business, Curbside Branding & Design. I work from home and have a client base both within Richmond and outside the city. Some places where I have done branding in the city include Pig & Brew (1313 Hull St) and Liberation Church (5200 Midlothian Turnpike).
what has it been like to run your own design business?
I love taking on new clients. I want to help push branding for companies all over the city and eventually all over the world. The most challenging aspect of running a business is knowing who to ask for help, who to let help you, and when you are over-extending yourself. I am always willing to go above and beyond for clients, but there is a certain balance that needs to be maintained to stay in business. I have had the pleasure of working with the most amazing clients who have allowed me to have full control over the branding and visual identities for their businesses.
Lastly, how can people find you online?
If anyone would like to see my portfolio and current work, they can visit (CurbsideBrandDesign.com) or follow my business on Instagram (@CurbsideBrandDesign). I love meeting new clients and helping with branding and creating visual identities across industries. I welcome branding and design work with entrepreneurs, small and large businesses, organizations and non-profits.
Any parting advice, inspiration or ideas for young artists and designers starting out?
The main thing I would tell young artists and designers is to keep doing what you love and always be open to learning and teaching yourself. Allow others to help you and don’t be afraid to step outside of your network. You want to surround yourself with things that drive productivity and help you put your best foot forward
Thank you, Amir!
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