Today we’d like to introduce you to Sylvia Mitchell.
Hi Sylvia, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Thank you for this opportunity. It’s an honor to share my story. My journey is one of artistic expression, Faith, and personal triumph. My love for design began at the age of 14 when I started creating graphics for my former church. Back then, we had those big old stencil print press machines, and I vividly remember typing and designing everything on an ink stencil and then pressing it to paper. It was a time-consuming process, but it ignited a spark within me. My father, a remarkable artist and painter, possessed a mesmerizing talent: he could effortlessly sit in a chair and bring any subject to life through his sketches. The sight of him crafting his own comic posters and creating vibrant, vivid paintings left an indelible mark on my soul. It was in those moments that my own passion for embracing an abundant palette of colors was born. Design also became my outlet, especially as an introvert due to being diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at a young age.
Art and design became my refuge when my illness kept me confined to my bed and room. It allowed me to express myself and find solace in creativity. It provided a sense of purpose and a way to connect with the world outside my immediate surroundings. Designing became my way of engaging with people, even when I couldn’t physically be with them.
After high school, I studied journalism and communications at Clark College (now CAU) and Georgia State University. Unfortunately, major illness forced me to drop out, and it took me 20 years to regain my health and finish my degree in Visual Communications and Graphic Design at American International University. It was a long and challenging journey, but I was determined to pursue my dreams.
Immediately after graduating, I had the opportunity to work in media at Channel 36, which was WB-affiliated at the time. I later joined Turner Broadcasting, where I spent almost seven years in Consumer Research and Marketing. This period coincided with the rapid development of digital media and the evolution of measuring audience viewership. I gained valuable insights into marketing to specific demographics and understanding the dynamics of television viewership.
After TBS split into national and local entities, I continued working with the local sales team in marketing research at WPCH (Peachtree TV). Simultaneously, I became involved in the media ministry at Beulah Missionary Baptist Church, designing DVD covers and creating graphic elements for church events and programs. In 2011, amidst another corporate layoff, I started my own graphic design studio, aligning my business motto with my calling: “enhancing your vision with creativity.”
Throughout my life, I’ve always known my calling and felt a deep connection to my place in the body of Christ. Joining Beulah Missionary Baptist Church and becoming the Creative Services Director felt like divine orchestration. It solidified my purpose and allowed me to bloom where I was planted. I truly believe that God guided me every step of the way, leading me to embrace caregiving for my mother after losing my father in 2012. I believe with every fiber of my being that God has orchestrated every second of my life and each moment to align perfectly so that I would be able to walk into this season with ease.
My design studio primarily serves small business entrepreneurs, startups, non-profits, and civic organizations. I find immense joy in all things creative and in helping my clients develop their brands.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I believe Langston Hughes captured the essence of my journey when he wrote, “Life for me ain’t been no crystal stair.” My life has been filled with immense challenges, like splinters, tacks, sharp cuts, and profound pain. Dealing with Crohn’s disease has been particularly arduous and isolating. The severity of the disease can lead to suffering in silence and profound physical breakdown.
However, despite the hardships, I wouldn’t trade this rugged road for anything. Every twist, every bump, every scar, every lesson, every failure, every surgery, and even the near loss of my life and the loss of loved ones has shaped me both personally and as a designer. These experiences have deeply influenced the passion with which I approach my design work and my outlook on life, which I see as full of vibrant colors and endless creativity.
Admittedly, due to my chronic illness, I may still be playing catch-up in comparison to others in my field. Nevertheless, it is precisely these challenges that have made me stronger and carved out a unique niche for me in life. They have molded me into the designer I am today, someone who brings a deep sense of empathy, resilience, and a rich understanding of the human experience to every project.
So, while the road hasn’t been smooth, it has been a transformative journey that has shaped my character and propelled my creative endeavors forward. I embrace the struggles as integral parts of my story, and they continue to inspire me to push boundaries and create meaningful designs that enhance the visions of those I work with.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As a Graphic designer by both degree and profession, I have the privilege of engaging in a variety of creative pursuits. Currently, I devote my full-time efforts as the Creative Services Director at Beulah Missionary Baptist Church while also running my small business, Sylvia Mitchell Design Studio, LLC, on a part-time basis. Additionally, I hold the role of creative marketing manager for Nomads Without Limits, LLC, a travel company based in Sunny Isles Beach, Florida, specializing in serving adventurous adults who embrace international and nomadic travel experiences.
My expertise lies in crafting captivating graphic, print, and digital media that effectively convey my clients’ messages. I take great pride in using vivid colors and light to breathe life into my designs, creating visually stunning and impactful representations. By skillfully integrating the personal character of my clients into each design, I strive to ensure that their unique stories and visions shine through.
What sets me apart from others in my field is my ability to establish deep connections through smaller projects. I find immense joy in collaborating with startup entrepreneurs, pouring my creative passion into their visions and bringing them to life through design. Witnessing their immediate connection to the final product and knowing that I have played a part in fueling their journey is truly rewarding.
While graphic design remains at the core of my services, I have also ventured into the realm of writing and crafting custom greeting cards. Furthermore, I have recently expanded my repertoire to include laser-cut custom items, adding a touch of uniqueness and personalization to my offerings. By continuously seeking new avenues for creativity and staying attuned to the evolving needs of my clients, I ensure that I provide exceptional and tailored solutions.
Ultimately, what I am most proud of is the ability to translate my clients’ visions into tangible designs that resonate deeply. It is the satisfaction of witnessing the immediate connection between their vision and the final product that fuels my passion and keeps me inspired. Through my creative work, I strive to make a lasting impact, offering a blend of technical expertise, personalized attention, and unwavering dedication to exceeding expectations.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
To work with me, collaborate with me, or show your support, there are several avenues you can explore. I am easily accessible through email or phone, allowing potential clients and collaborators to reach out to discuss their creative needs and explore opportunities for collaboration. Additionally, you can directly message me on Instagram. I’m working on becoming more active with posting, but I do respond to all messages.
It’s worth noting that my client base extends beyond the metropolitan Atlanta area. I have had the pleasure of working with clients from various locations, including Michigan, Ohio, and Florida. Distance is not a barrier when it comes to delivering creative solutions, as I am adept at effectively communicating and collaborating remotely.
I genuinely value every opportunity to work with individuals and organizations, regardless of their location or industry. Whether you are an entrepreneur, a startup, a non-profit, or any entity seeking creative services, I welcome the chance to collaborate and bring your vision to life.
Support can be shown by spreading the word about my work, sharing my portfolio with others who may be in need of creative services, or engaging with my content on social media platforms. Your support plays a vital role in helping me reach a wider audience and connect with like-minded individuals who may benefit from my skills and expertise.
By reaching out, collaborating, and offering your support, you become an essential part of my creative journey. Together, we can embark on exciting projects, explore new possibilities, and bring impactful designs to life.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sylviamitchelldesigns/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SylviaMitchellDesigns
