Krystal, the unkanny designer!

when it all began

I’ve wanted to be a graphic designer since I entered my first poster contest at the age of 9. I didn’t win first place, or even earn honorable mention, but there was something about being in a room full of posters—all competing for my attention—that struck a nerve with me. I realized the posters that placed exhibited a clear message with the least predictable execution. I decided, from that day forward, that my next poster would send a clear visual message in an unconventional way. My next poster contest entry won first place.

education

I received my Associate’s Degree of Fine Arts from the Delaware College of Art & Design and my Bachelor’s Degree of Fine Arts from the Corcoran College of Art + Design, both degrees were concentrated in Graphic Design. I was born and raised in the Washington, DC metropolitan area, and currently reside in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Unkanny Design was born in March 2006 and operates out of Bowie, Maryland.

family + fun

I am the proud mother of two beautiful daughters who are just as crazy as I am. When we’re not out-and-about, we’re probably cooking in the kitchen, reading books to each other at the library or having a “girls’ night in” with a good movie. They are my sunshine on a rainy day, and my greatest source of inspiration.

giving back to the community

When I was young, I was introduced to the phrase san kofa from the Akan language of Ghana meaning “to go back and fetch.” I am committed to edifying my community. Not only do I volunteer design services to several local nonprofit causes, but I also tutor high school students (usually in Math, but really, anything my brain can recall), participate in local walks for charity, donate to the local food pantry and donate school supplies year round. I’ve been an active PTA member since my oldest daughter begin Pre-K, serving on two PTA Boards. I am an advocate for public education and equality in public education. I believe in supporting local businesses. I do not design materials promoting drugs or hard liquor, explicit adult content or materials that make false claims about products and services. I am held to ethical guidelines as outlined by the AIGA (industry organization).