Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelsey Sarah Slay.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Kelsey Slay. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
My story begins in my freshman year of college. I was a declared business major at the start of college but over time found myself very unhappy with the degree course and struggling to find purpose in it. I always dreamed of pursuing a creative career since I had a passion for art and painting, but was too fearful to take that risk. Even in my unhappiness, I told myself that an art degree was unpractical. My parents were aware of my struggles in college and greatly encouraged me to pursue a creative degree, despite my hesitations. During my sophomore year of college, I officially changed my major to art and it has been one of the best decisions I have made. When I learned that my college had started offering graphic design courses, I decided to enroll myself. After taking two of such classes in one semester, I determined that design would be my main focus. In pursuing a graphic design degree, I have grown tremendously. I feel that this experience has helped me develop a better understanding of myself and my plans in future endeavors. Graphic Design has given me an avenue to utilize my creative talents to enrich the lives of others and I’m so thankful that I decided to pursue a job in a creative field.
Has it been a smooth road?
Every creative journey comes with its struggles and obstacles. Some of the struggles I faced at the beginning were self-doubt and fear. The fear of the unknown has always been a roadblock for me in my creative life but I have come to understand that fear and doubt will only hinder me from accomplishing all that I have set out to do. Struggles and obstacles will inevitably come, but I’ve learned to chase progress instead of perfection and accept that this journey is an ongoing process.
My advice to young women would be to always be authentic to yourself and what you believe in. Truly take the time to know yourself and your passions and then pursue something that aligns with that. Life is way too short to not pursue the things you are passionate about and to let fear stop you from something great!
What do you do, what do you specialize in, what are you known for, etc. What are you most proud of? What sets you apart from others?
I am a freelance graphic designer! I aim to create work that is impactful and communicates the message according to whatever aesthetic fits the project. I think design has a tremendous impact on people every day and often goes undervalued. We are surrounded by bad design and I believe that if we are going to communicate something, it should be done in the best way possible. My goal is to create work that will enrich the lives of those who encounter it. Creating my own design aesthetic has been an ongoing process since I began this journey. Very much like the design process, my aesthetic will continue to expand and grow as I become more versed as a designer.
Nevertheless, I consider the current aesthetic of my work to be part of a larger, individual, personal work. While though I try to maintain a set look and feel in all my work, I understand that there are times in which my clients prefer an aesthetic that differs from my own. In light of this, I challenge myself to work outside my comfort zone to produce solutions that are most valuable for my clients.
What do you feel are the biggest barriers today to female leadership, in your industry or generally?
I feel that stereotypes about women in power pose as the greatest barriers to female leadership. In my personal experience, I have found as a woman that people are often intimidated by women who have qualities of ambition, drive, or confidence. A woman should be able to possess these qualities without being deemed “bossy” or “masculine.” These are qualities that should be celebrated, rather than critiqued. This stereotype creates a sense of caution for women who are going against the “feminine ideal.” Even with these barriers, I am greatly encouraged to see women continue to fight against such preconceived notions and pursue roles in leadership. Having women that are willing to stand alongside me as I fight this battle has helped me to continue on, regardless of how I am perceived by others in my industry or in general. I believe women should be themselves unapologetically. Despite what others might say, I think that females should remain unafraid and tenacious in their pursuit of leadership positions.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://slaykelsey.myportfolio.com/work
- Phone: 706-761-8091
- Email: kelseyslaydesign@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelseyslay_design/
Image Credit:
Keema Anderson
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