Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Renelle Narine. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Renelle, thanks for taking the time to share your story with us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?
I studied art and art history and completed a graphic design internship in high school. I always knew I wanted a career as an artist. I studied graphic design after high school and graduated from The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale with a Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design. Since graduating I have worked in several industries – consumer product goods, food, telecommunications, publishing, manufacturing, hospitality and cyber security, where I learned so much more.
To speed up my learning process I should have networked more with other creatives earlier in my career. Social media platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn definitely helped me to network and find other creatives that I can learn from and collaborate with.
An obstacle I encountered was moving from print to digital design. When I started as a graphic designer, most final projects were designed on the computer, then printed. As technology became more advanced and the internet became the new place of business, I had to learn digital design as all the specs for projects were different from print design.
Throughout the years I have upgraded my skills by taking additional courses. As a designer, I think it’s necessary to always be evolving and growing, and also staying up-to-date with trends. The most essential skill you need as a designer is the ability to communicate. Effective communication with colleagues as well as clients is essential to understand briefs and execute projects as required. You also need to be objective about your work and be original.
In 2022, there are so many ways to learn graphic design online, including Youtube, Coursera and Udemy to name a few. Learning the software is one thing, but having a foundation in visual art is essential.
Renelle, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I am a creative professional with 20 years of experience in visual/ graphic design, art direction and content creation. I’ve worked in multiple industries in multiple countries and have produced designs for major brands like Disney, Walmart and Jamba Juice.
Eleven years ago, Six 13 Studios was created as a solution to help small businesses to develop their brand. My interest in beauty, health and wellness has led me to focus on brands in these industries. Some services I provide include :
Visual/ Graphic Design, Art Direction, Content Creation, Social Media Design, Mood Boards, Brand Identity, Brand Style Guides, Package Design, eBook Design, Presentation Design, PDF Document Design, Website Design.
I am able to successfully translate user needs, as well as business requirements, into designs that are visually exciting and emotionally engaging. My extensive experience and passion for both print and digital design allows me to create a cohesive visual brand for my clients and offer unique packages.
Does your business have multiple or supplementary revenue streams (like a ATM machine at a barbershop, etc)?
Yes, I have a “Printables” division of Six 13 Studios on Etsy. I have always loved stationery and planners, so I decided to design some myself! You can find seasonal 1-page printable weekly planners as well as meal prep planners and even a baby feeding log. I will be adding more designs in the shop in the next month, just in time for the holidays.
My Etsy shop name is: Six13StudiosUS and can be found here:
I also have an Amazon store where I sell paperback notebooks with stylish covers.
My Amazon store can be found here:
Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
I wish I knew about all the amazing design content on YouTube earlier. There are so many different types of designers and creative people on YouTube who teach others how to use software, design all kinds of things and give business tips.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://six13studios.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/six13studios/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/six13studios/
- Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@six13studios