As the former Art & Design Director and Graphic Designer for The Forge literary magazine at George Mason University, I drove the creative direction for the Spring 2025 | Volume V issue and designed its full layout. The issue explores various sci-fi and fantasy worlds through student made art and literature works.
For the cover design, my staff and I brainstormed different themes and voted for which one we wanted. The chosen theme was Eco-Brutalism so I drew from Eco-Brutalist architecture and sci-fi movies to create an intriguing scene with robot towering over a protagonist and her sidekick. I directed two of my staff members in rendering the sketch, making sure to maintain readability through clear shape language and color contrast.
From the College Media Association, the issue won multiple Creative Pinnacle Awards in Division I, including: 1st Place Literary Magazine Cover, 2nd Place Literary Magazine of the Year, 2nd Place Editorial Illustration, and Honorable Mention Literary Magazine Spread. It also won a David L. Adams Apple Award in Division I for 3rd place.
A group photo with me (lower right), my Managing Editor, Art and Design Director, and one of the cover artists:
Currently, I am the Editor in Chief, overseeing The Forge's editorial direction, creative direction, marketing activities, and website development.
I am also the Lead Designer, where I work on and direct the designs for the digital and print issues, as well as promotional materials.
I am also the Lead Designer, where I work on and direct the designs for the digital and print issues, as well as promotional materials.
For the issues, I work with my team to pair writing submissions with complementary art submissions and custom staff-made artwork. When I design, I strive to keep a logical flow between stories and artwork, making sure to spotlight both and create an exciting, immersive experience for the reader. For promotional materials, I maintain consistency with our brand colors (blue, orange, yellow) and ensure legibility across digital and print spaces.
Promotional materials made under my direction:
