jake barnhart

Jake is an artist and graphic designer based in Chicago, IL with years of experience in the design field as a Creative Lead and Intern.

Known for being outgoing, communicative, and a team player, Jake thrives on collaboration and brings a positive energy to every project. Passionate about pushing the boundaries of his craft, he’s always eager to grow as a designer and tackle new challenges head-on.

FAQs

  • When it comes to Graphic Design, I’m super inspired by the Swiss International style, as I am a huge fan of Heltevitca Bold. Designers like Massimo Vignelli and David Carson also really inspire me to create. Vignelli’s NYC Subway design system is one of my absolute favorites!

  • To start, I always grab a pen and paper. It is super important to me that I start with something physical before I reach for my computer. I start by brainstorming, writing my thoughts and ideas down with words or small sketches. I will consult the client or collaborate with my group to start creative direction. I will identify project goals and targets, and dissect the brief directly with the client.

    Once I have a few solid ideas, I will flesh them out into fully fledged concepts, and I will again consult with the client on which direction is ideal for the project goals. At this point, I am working digitally. This stage is important, because I am taking in feedback and critique, and strengthening the concept through active and clear communication.

    I will then choose the best direction to meet the goals of the project, and begin refining and shaping the design solution. I mix in client feedback with my own judgement, and work on final adjustments. By the end of the project, I will discuss the final compositions with the client, to ensure their goals have been met, and send them the solution however they need.

  • I have been developing my “design-eye” since my childhood. From an early age, I have always reached for markers and pens to create and draw. This longstanding development has translated to a keen eye for design in my current career, and allows for me to quickly and easily organize and design a composition. This is not limited to just graphic design, as I am also an artist, dabbling in Drawing, Painting, and Photography

    I particularly thrive in collaborative environments, where I am working directly with other creative minds. Co-creation is one of my favorite things about design, and I bring a light and positive energy to any team. I have throughly developed communication skills that I utilize to translate my ideas efficiently.

    Over the course of my budding career, I have been able to diversify the range of works I am able to produce. This is due to the fact that I love to learn, and I do so very quickly and efficiently. This skillset allows me to take on many different roles within the creative sphere, and to take away much from them. This adaptability enables me to thrive in many different environments.

  • When I was in 5th grade, I started a Minecraft creative world that would last until the current day. That makes this world over 11 years old!

    It is my favorite thing to show people, simply because of how expansive it is. In this world, I have built 2 major cities, both in a different Architectural style.

    The first, Capitalia, is a Roman/Greek inspired city. It has temples, walkable neighborhoods, monuments, plazas, ports, and so much more.

    The second is Carson City. Carson City is inspired by American cities like Chicago and New York, and is chock full of skyscrapers. It has two metro systems, an underground subway, and an aboveground “L” system. It extends from a large downtown, down to walkable and dense neighborhoods.

    This world is a combination of my creative skills, and love for creativity and architecture. It is a reflection of my dedication and simple love of design. The world is so huge and detailed, that It never fails to absolutely stun anyone I show!