Today we’d like to introduce you to Chelsea Haines.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Chelsea. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
My journey began at the College of Charleston, where I had no idea what I wanted to be when I ‘grew up.’ As a freshman pursuing a degree in psychology, I was less than fulfilled. One evening, my roommates convinced me to sneak into the campus painting studios that revealed a beautiful view of the city, and upon that first step into the room, I felt an overwhelming sense of curiosity, excitement, fear, and home. The following semester I declared my major to Studio Art, where I harnessed skills in drawing and printmaking, and developed a glowing passion for film photography (ironically not painting, though).
Fast-forward another couple of years waiting tables, backpacking through Europe and New Zealand, soul-searching, and I find myself at the Creative Circus in Atlanta. The two years of that program were the most trying of my life, but I was born a designer from that school, and I left with some of the most amazing experiences and friendships that I am eternally grateful for. It prepared me for my first career role as a designer on the creative brand team for Jamba (Juice), and for my current jobs freelancing in design and photography.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has definitely not always been smooth. Especially during my collective time as a student, I struggled largely with the need for outside validation to tell me my work was ‘good’ in order to actually believe that. Creativity is innately vulnerable, and as a creator of any kind, it can take a lot of self-awareness and self-confidence to separate your hubris from subjective critique.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I am currently freelancing as a graphic designer, photographer, and illustrator. Within the realm of design, I specialize mostly in branding and identity systems, which often includes illustrative elements as well. My creative output and headspace is largely rooted in my fine art background, giving me a broader toolbox of material solutions and traditional skills to bring to a digital world.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I wouldn’t be where I am today without my amazing Jamba teammates during my time at Focus Brands. The special thing about this job was the community of humans of the creative department, and especially my immediate team members. I never felt anything but believed in, encouraged, and celebrated. Big shoutouts to Nadia Rahman, Jason Page, Patrick Hudson, Alissa Funk, Matt Gruber, and Megan Chang!
I am even further blessed to have an incredible support system through friends and family, who are always encouraging me to pursue my dreams and cheering me on.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.chelseajhaines.com
- Phone: 678-315-1767
- Instagram: @cjhaines
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