Meet Grace Garlesky
Local graphic designer Grace Garlesky is an inspirational figure in St. Augustine, Florida’s creative community. She graduated Flagler College with a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design and a minor in Marketing. This Q&A explores her journey, sources of inspiration, and insights on navigating the world of graphic design.
When did you become interested in art?
Like before I can remember. I was always painting and drawing and doing random crafts from a young age.
How would you describe your art style?
Clean but also a little edgy? Colorful & contemporary with retro influences. Like if a Type A person with an obsession with antique stores were to make art.
How do you motivate yourself to make art?
Honestly, I don’t. It has to just happen and if I’m not feeling in the right headspace I have to just come back to it later.
Grace Garlesky poses at Freedom Park in St. Augustine, Florida. By Kathryn Hennessy.
Grace Garlesky poses next to an American Flag on US 1 and King St., St. Augustine, Florida. By Kathryn Hennessy.
Who and what inspires you?
All kinds of vintage media (old books, ads, graphic tees, menus, etc), Vacation Inc’s Instagram, Blaze Brooks, places like Neighbors Orlando and The Repurpose Project (GNV), risograph printing, chic wine labels. I like using websites like Pinterest that present a million different things at once, which always helps spark an idea for me.
What are your favorite things about designing?
You can always undo or erase… and literally anything is possible. I like being able to directly use and manipulate images and work with existing fonts rather than having to emulate them like in other mediums.
What has helped you grow as an artist?
Years of art classes, internet access, and supportive friends and family. Also just growing up a little and caring less about what people think of me.
What advice would you give a young graphic designer?
I’d say try your best to not compare yourself to other designers because that’s the fastest way to tank your confidence and motivation. You have to be careful with looking to other artists for inspiration because it can quickly turn into a contest. Also be VERY wary of anyone who asks you to do free work.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
On the West Coast working at a design agency or as an in-house designer for a fashion company or lifestyle brand. Don’t laugh at me, I’m manifesting.
Discover more on her website and by following the links below!
Grace Garlesky enjoys the sun at Freedom Park in St. Augustine, Florida. By Kathryn Hennessy.
Gallery
Vacation
Uptown Block Party
Sourdoubts
Hotbox
Spinster Abbott’s
Dos Santos Collective
Creative Director of Strike Mag
