Graphic designer: Chris Chitate
Graphic design is a blend of artistry, technical skill and creativity, where every project is an opportunity to craft visual narratives that captivate and inspire.
Chris Chitate, a self-employed graphic designer known professionally as Hooligan, embodies this character through his journey in the creative industry. His career path, from basic educational foundations to entrepreneurial success, underscores the importance of passion, perseverance and continuous learning in the world of graphic design.
Chitate began his journey with a general grade 12 certificate, and emphasised the importance of basic communication skills and fundamental mathematical understanding for both digital and physical applications.
An art and design background provided him with essential artistic concepts, laying the groundwork for his creative endeavours. However, Chitate said true mastery comes from putting in the necessary work to continually improve one's craft.
As a graphic designer, he navigates a diverse array of software and tools tailored to various project requirements and user preferences.
"It's crucial to figure out what you're comfortable with to express yourself," he advised, highlighting the importance of curiosity and experimentation in discovering one's niche within the field.
Chitate's typical projects involves photo shoot post-production, where he curates and refines images to construct compelling visual pieces. His creative process begins with selecting the best images, followed by allowing inspiration to guide the project's direction.
"I like to freestyle most of the time," he explained, emphasising his preference for organic creativity that evolves during the design process.
Currently self-employed, he previously served as a graphic designer and marketing director at Mutete Juice Namibia, where he cherished the creative freedom afforded to him. Reflecting on this experience, Chitate noted: "That’s all any designer wishes for".
His advice to aspiring designers is rooted in practical wisdom gained from his own journey. He encouraged creating extensive portfolios through personal projects and affordable client work to build a loyal clientele base.
Volunteering for projects and maintaining an active social media presence are also essential strategies for gaining exposure and fostering opportunities in the industry, he said.
Chris Chitate, a self-employed graphic designer known professionally as Hooligan, embodies this character through his journey in the creative industry. His career path, from basic educational foundations to entrepreneurial success, underscores the importance of passion, perseverance and continuous learning in the world of graphic design.
Chitate began his journey with a general grade 12 certificate, and emphasised the importance of basic communication skills and fundamental mathematical understanding for both digital and physical applications.
An art and design background provided him with essential artistic concepts, laying the groundwork for his creative endeavours. However, Chitate said true mastery comes from putting in the necessary work to continually improve one's craft.
As a graphic designer, he navigates a diverse array of software and tools tailored to various project requirements and user preferences.
"It's crucial to figure out what you're comfortable with to express yourself," he advised, highlighting the importance of curiosity and experimentation in discovering one's niche within the field.
Chitate's typical projects involves photo shoot post-production, where he curates and refines images to construct compelling visual pieces. His creative process begins with selecting the best images, followed by allowing inspiration to guide the project's direction.
"I like to freestyle most of the time," he explained, emphasising his preference for organic creativity that evolves during the design process.
Currently self-employed, he previously served as a graphic designer and marketing director at Mutete Juice Namibia, where he cherished the creative freedom afforded to him. Reflecting on this experience, Chitate noted: "That’s all any designer wishes for".
His advice to aspiring designers is rooted in practical wisdom gained from his own journey. He encouraged creating extensive portfolios through personal projects and affordable client work to build a loyal clientele base.
Volunteering for projects and maintaining an active social media presence are also essential strategies for gaining exposure and fostering opportunities in the industry, he said.
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