In her own words, Karin Wilson, owner of Wild Woman Design, discusses her philosophy on design, how she got started and what sparks her creative passion.

Why did you choose graphic design?

“For as long as I can remember, I've preferred scribbling and drawing to just about anything else. In school, I could have spent the entire day in art class. My parents were the ones who encouraged me to check out graphic design as a profession. It was the perfect choice for me – I've never looked back.”

How did you get started?

“I graduated with a graphic design degree from LaRoche College in 1984 and immediately went to work as a professional graphic designer. In-between freelancing, I've held positions as a board artist all the way up to art director. But I’ve always enjoyed the freelancing the most.”

How did you come up with the name Wild Woman Design?

“I started freelancing in 1990 while I was still in New Jersey. At that time, I went under my own name Karin Wilson. However, the logo I designed is the one I have now. My friends all nicknamed her 'The Wild Woman.' When I moved to Arizona, I decided to give my business a separate name from mine. Thus Wild Woman Design was born.”

As an artist, what has influenced you most?

“My biggest influences have been other artists I've worked with. I was fortunate to hook up with people who enjoyed brainstorming and solving each other’s problems as much as I did. For many years I was a member of a group of artists who used to meet for a Monthly Designer Lunch. We would talk about our latest projects, show off what we liked and get help on what was giving us trouble. It was a wonderful way to nurture our creativity and stay on top of the latest design trends and computer issues.”

What do you like most about graphic design?

“Combining the creative process with the challenges of design work. I love it when I can take my skills and solve a design or marketing problem, giving my clients a solution that fits both their budget and design needs.

“Most of us turn to outside vendors at some point to help our companies grow. It's very satisfying to be involved in that process and see a business go from needing that first company logo to product packaging to sell sheets. I enjoy the good solid relationship I have with many of my clients. I love being involved in the growth of my clients' businesses and knowing I was a part of their success.”

What does graphic design mean to you?

“Design is an investment in your business' image, marketing and advertising. It's important to me that you get a good value from your investment in WWD. My goal is to make sure you're happy with the final results.”

How do you work?

“I try to be sure that the goal of a project is clear from the start and put that in writing so both the client and I know what to expect. If I'm not the right designer for your job, I'll let you know. And if I can, I'll be happy to refer you to a designer better suited for your project.”

What sparks your creative process?

“Pursuing other creative hobbies like hiking, nature photography, scuba diving, pottery and reading. Being creative is hard work, and by doing a variety of creative activities I'm able to strengthen my design work. You never know when that photo of a creek or an interesting shape in a clay vessel will solve a logo or layout problem.”

Who are some of your clients?

“There's a lot of variety in the size and type of companies I've worked for. My clients include software developers, medical hardware manufacturers, specialty foods companies, landscapers, a bathing suit designer, lawyers, workout equipment manufacturers, realtors, marketing & advertising agencies, and many more.”

Do you do any volunteer work?

“I'm on the board of the San Diego Marketing Association (SDDMA) as the VP of Communications. I design the invitations for the group's monthly meetings. In fact, if you're local to San Diego, I would strongly encourage you to check us out. This is a great group of people to network with. The meetings are designed to educate members with topics like paying for hits on Google to learning how a newspaper plans to promote since the "Do Not Call" list went into effect.”

So what advice would you give someone interested in becoming a graphic designer?

“Graphic design is a fun and rewarding profession. To start, I’d recommend getting a degree in graphic design from a school that hires working professionals to teach. The technology is changing so fast you want to be learning the latest techniques from people who are using those techniques in a real-world setting. Get as much hands on experience as you can.

“But enough about me. What are you looking for in your next design project? I'd like an opportunity to be a part of that project. Give me a call or send me an e-mail and let's talk.”