Award-winning, empathic design leader with over 18 years of experience in the graphic design field. Skilled at delivering effective solutions for complex problems utilizing human-centered design approaches; overseeing and facilitating production over multiple design projects; strategically designing and reinforcing company brands; and motivating others to achieve their full creative potential.
In my career, I have produced award-winning designs, developed perceptive problem-solving abilities under tough circumstances, and have taken on leadership responsibilities. You will find me well-spoken, confident, and personable. Employers benefit from my proven ability to communicate effectively, willingness to learn, and to produce high quality products under strenuous deadlines in a competitive, fast-paced environment.
In my design career, I have worked as a senior graphic design manager and graphic designer where I have oversaw graphic execution of projects and upheld the objectives of creative briefs as well as researched, conceptualized and created artwork and digital images. My experience also includes creating brand guides; collaborating with copywriters, media teams, and other internal and external affiliates; managing designers’ workload and client expectations as well as art directing, supporting, and mentoring team members.
Branding
Layout
Illustration
Adobe InDesign 98%
Adobe Illustrator 95%
Adobe Photoshop 87%
Adhering to brand standards, I have created webpages, e-newsletters, customized and updated WordPress websites, and created digital advertisements. I am knowledgable in CSS and HTML and have built content in Adobe Dreamweaver and Aptana web programs and utilized content management systems.
CSS
HTML
Layout
Adobe Dreamweaver 70%
Adobe XD 30%
I primarily work in oil and acrylic paint. Most of my subject matter consists of figures and landscapes. I usually paint from photographs unless I am working on an abstract piece or illustration. I would describe my painting style as flat, modern, and stylized. My favorite painter is Alex Katz.
Portraits
Landscapes
Abstract
I primarily art direct photoshoots when it comes to professional photography. However, I have taken photos, as needed, for The Roanoke Times and Radford University. My strength is in composition and editing.
Art Direction
Editing
Bridge 83%
Photoshop 87%
Utilizing design thinking, I have implemented desirable, feasible and viable ideas for product development, social change, and organizational progress. I believe self-awareness and empathy are vital to innovative human-centered design. As a designer, I know how important it is to design with people instead of for people. Impactful solutions are produced when all stakeholders are actively involved in the design process.
Empathetic 100%
Collaborative 100%
Creative 97%
Curious 100%
Problem Solver 100%
Below I have featured some of my best work, which includes an assortment of graphic design pieces, paintings, photography, and web components.
“Nakia is one of the most talented and intuitive graphic designers I have ever worked with. Her ideas are always on target, her designs are flawlessly executed and she never misses a deadline. Her attention to detail is unmatched.“
“Nakia is a highly creative, intelligent designer with a ‘can do’ attitude. Add to Nakia’s creativity an intense customer service focus and you’ve got an exceptional find.“
“She always delivered excellent creative and solid design in a proficient and organized manner each and every time. Nakia is superb in her craft, a true pleasure to work and has my highest recommendation.“
“Nakia is the one you go to to get things done! She is efficient, creative and always is more than willing to help. She never says no to new challenges and always does what she can to help solve problems and keep our customers happy.“
contact@nakiashelton.com
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