We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Alberto March ("AM").
From 2008 to 2010, he helped St. Augustine College in Chicago create images for the El Puente Gala Awards, an event that raises funds for low-income Latino student scholarships. 2008–2010, he designed for the National Latino AIDS Awareness Day in New York during social campaigns. 2008, he created and designed the “Flip to Learn” program to help non-speaking English students learn irregular verbs. The program is utilized at Broward College in South Florida, Triton College and St. Augustine College in Chicago, and some Chicago Public Schools, where they teach English as a second language.
Alberto March Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Alberto March.
Alberto March Design - Safer Food Editorial Design
Designer Interview of Alberto March:
DI: Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
AM : My father was a Spanish painter who inspired me to be interested in all aspects of art. I obtained my B.A. in Graphic Design in 1985, followed by a B.A. in Advertising and Marketing in 2000. At the age of 14, my immersion in art and music served as the cornerstone of my artistic pursuit. In 1985, I engaged in collaborative efforts with acclaimed artists such as Victor Valera, Alirio Palacios, and Luisa Richter. This experience significantly contributed to my development as a photographer, artist, and graphic designer. I participated in collective exhibitions across Venezuela, Argentina, Peru, Brazil, Colombia, and Central America from 1980 to 1990. My artistic endeavors were honored with the Tito Salas special recognition awards in 1982 and 1984 for my paintings. In 1985, the Museum of Contemporary Art of La Rinconada and Galería de Arte Nacional, Caracas, Venezuela, hosted an exhibition featuring my black and white photographs titled "Portraits of my Inner," which subsequently toured South American Contemporary Art Museums for two years. Additionally, I presented 14 pieces under the title "Giants of Chicago" at ArtPrize, Grand Rapids, Michigan, the Consulate of Venezuela, UNAM University of Mexico in Chicago, CuCut and Paspartu Gallery in Barcelona, Spain, and The Thompson Center in Chicago, IL. Notably, my latest exposition, "Victoria," was showcased at the UNAM University of Mexico in Chicago (Sept 26-Oct 26, 2013), in BCN at Casinet D'Hostafrancs during the INT. month of Dance, and "Giants of BCN" was exhibited at Cucut, Osbar, and BY, Paspartú galleries in Barcelona from 2014 to 2015.
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
AM : Established by Alberto March in 1996 in Miami Lakes, Florida, GrafMarc specializes in providing design, marketing, and visual communication solutions to clients. Over the years, the company has expanded its operations to include full representation in Chicago, Illinois, and Barcelona, Spain. GrafMarc's services encompass a wide range of offerings, such as web solutions, accessible PDF/UA, print and digital editorial design, layout for corporate communications, brand identity, marketing and communication materials, social media campaigns, and direct marketing strategies. Additionally, the company has expertise in the editorial layout of products in six languages: English, Spanish, French, Russian, and Chinese.
DI: What is "design" for you?
AM : Expressing oneself through various artistic mediums serves as a means of connecting with others and actualizing our innermost aspirations. Unbeknownst to many, we each serve as the architects of our own lives, methodically shaping every facet, including our professional endeavours, interpersonal relationships, pastimes, and personal ventures.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
AM : Accessible PDF/UA, print and digital editorial design, layout for corporate communications, brand identity, marketing and communication materials, social media campaigns
DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
AM : I do not have a specific favourite design. Each design project I have developed and received approval for from clients effectively communicates the accomplished objectives. This is the essence of design success.
DI: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
AM : In 1988, my first professional design project was for an optical brand campaign in Venezuela.
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
AM : In the realm of art, I specialize in utilizing oil and acrylic mediums, employing a diverse array of support platforms such as canvases and wood. In the domain of graphic design, I proficiently navigate Adobe software exclusively on Macintosh operating systems.
DI: When do you feel the most creative?
AM : During the early mornings.
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
AM : After analyzing the briefing, conducting research, and studying the marketing objectives, it is essential to understand the target audience for the message or the product/service. Thorough research and a comprehensive study of the marketing objectives are imperative after analyzing the provided briefing. Understanding the intended audience for the message, product, or service is essential.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
AM : My emotions are focused on developing an idea that conveys the purpose of the message: happiness, satisfaction, and commitment.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
AM : When a design is approved and fulfills its purpose, I experience a tremendous sense of fulfillment.
DI: What makes a design successful?
AM : When the design is well received by the intended audience, it fosters brand loyalty.
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
AM : Let's focus on the message's purpose, the art of typography, illustration, photography, and the use of space.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
AM : Design is a potent instrument used by designers to meet specific requirements or appeal to targeted audiences. Fundamental to this endeavour is the imperative for design to effectively communicate with the intended users. This mandates the astute amalgamation of aesthetics and semiotics. Frequently, the seamless fusion of these components renders their individual demarcation challenging. While the uninitiated users or target audience may not consciously discern these constituent elements, their collective impact remains profound.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
AM : In the ever-changing design world, extensive collaboration across different fields will be crucial. This will involve bringing together designers, engineers, philosophers, ecologists, and professionals in care, technology, and AI. This shift will prioritize the economic value of design output and its broader social and environmental significance. Additionally, designers will increasingly involve diverse stakeholders, including non-human entities, in the design process. This expansion of co-designing will encompass businesses, communities, AI systems, and the natural environment.
DI: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
AM : During my career as an artist, my artwork has been exhibited at several prominent venues. In Chicago, I displayed 14 pieces under the title "Giants of Chicago" at ArtPrize, Grand Rapids, Michigan, as well as at the Consulate of Venezuela, UNAM University of Mexico, and The Thompson Center. Additionally, my latest exposition, "Victoria," was showcased at the UNAM University of Mexico in Chicago from Sept 26 to Oct 26, 2013, at Casinet D'Hostafrancs during the INT. month of Dance in Barcelona, and "Giants of BCN" was exhibited at Cucut, Osbar, and BY, Paspartú galleries in Barcelona from 2014 to 2015.
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
AM : My creative process is guided by relevant keywords associated with the content or message intended for dissemination. Additionally, I carefully consider the specific target audience that will engage with the product, campaign, service, or publication.
DI: How would you describe your design style? What made you explore more this style and what are the main characteristics of your style? What's your approach to design?
AM : As designers, we are aware that imposing a singular style is incompatible with our role as communicators. Our primary responsibility lies in translating messages and content into visual representations and layouts.
DI: Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?
AM : Throughout my life, I have had the privilege of residing in three distinct countries: Venezuela, the United States, and, presently, Spain. Each nation possesses unique characteristics, and I have experienced firsthand the diverse cultures, values, and societal norms each one cultivates. The vibrant colours and rich cuisines of these countries have indubitably left a lasting impression on my senses as an artist, photographer and designer.
DI: How do you work with companies?
AM : By enlisting my services as a vendor.
DI: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
AM : To find the perfect designer, it's essential to explore their background, expertise, accomplishments, and awards.
DI: Can you talk a little about your design process?
AM : To effectively meet the client's needs, it is important to understand the service or product that will be promoted or launched. This involves asking questions about the company's history, values, vision, and mission. Additionally, studying the marketing and communication plans is crucial, as well as understanding the target audience. 1.Identifying the problem 2.Researching it in-depth 3.Identifying possible solutions 4.Evaluating and selecting a promising solution 5.Creating a prototype 6.Testing and troubleshooting 7.Making improvements to and releasing the final product
DI: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
AM : Lamps, furniture in general, a coffee table and the trophies won.
DI: Can you describe a day in your life?
AM : In my daily routine, I rise at 6:00 a.m. and kick off with a rigorous fitness session, followed by personal grooming. I then take my loyal canine companion for a stroll and grab breakfast at a nearby eatery before returning home to dive into a day of professional endeavours. From the 1990s to 2008, I spearheaded a team of around 42 individuals with diverse expertise, spanning from engineering to graphic and web design. Currently, I operate as a consultant in the realm of graphic design, leading a group of skilled professionals with whom I closely collaborate on a project-by-project basis.
DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
AM : Listen, observe, stay updated, be part of a non-profit campaign, and be humble and open-minded.
DI: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
AM : I don´t see anything negative about being a graphic designer; on the contrary, it is a blessing.
DI: What is your "golden rule" in design?
AM : Together as a team, we involve the client in our step-by-step process.
DI: What skills are most important for a designer?
AM : Listening, observing, researching, keeping your skills up to date, and being aware of all aspects of art and culture worldwide are important.
DI: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
AM : I create the designs using Mac and Adobe products. Nikon is my favourite photography brand, a true symbol of innovation and excellence. I search for new trends in fonts, colour palettes, fashion and art.
DI: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
AM : Each project is assigned a specific timeline for the design and delivery process, tailored to the type of service or product and aligned with the client's deadline.
DI: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
AM : The timeline for completing projects varies based on specific requirements. For instance, the timeframe for finalizing a 120-page report ranges from 7 to 15 days, depending on the inclusion of photographs, illustrations, or infographics. Designing a brand identity typically takes between 15 days to 60 days and, in some cases, up to a year, influenced by various contributing factors.
DI: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
AM : What kind of design projects interest you?
DI: What was your most important job experience?
AM : As CEO, I have gained valuable experience in three distinct sectors: beverages and food, beauty and health, and the science industry.
DI: Who are some of your clients?
AM : The World Health Organization in Geneva. Before Ericson, Bayer, Pepsico, Lafarge, Holcim, Oracle, Taca Airlines, Avianca Airlines, Cornell and South Miami University.
DI: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
AM : I take great pleasure in developing health reports, guidelines, and products for the World Health Organization. This work provides me with a profound sense of purpose, knowing that my contributions have a positive impact on the health and well-being of billions of people around the globe.
DI: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
AM : I want to stay updated on what is necessary to enhance design for conveying crucial messages and content.
DI: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
AM : Usually, I receive the briefing and formulate the design approach. If necessary, I have a team to assist with specific aspects.
DI: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
AM : I am currently involved in three projects that have a significant impact on people's health. These projects include developing a new branding strategy for the World Health Organization's bone-aging department, addressing salt consumption, and launching an obesity awareness campaign.
DI: How can people contact you?
AM : https://www.linkedin.com/in/grafmarc/ albertom@grafmarc.com +34648083859
DI: Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
AM : Thank you for this opportunity. You have asked comprehensive questions. I genuinely appreciate it.