Enter a caption (optional)

In Above the Fold, we spotlight individual members of Coroflot's vibrant creative community. The idea is to take you behind the scenes and inside the minds of talented Coroflot members who we think are doing exceptional work. Coroflot was created by designers, for designers, and Above the Fold is the place where we can talk to creatives about work that we not only love, but think you'll love too!

To say Pittsburgh-based Art Director Olga Cuzuioc Sinchevici is versatile in her skills may be putting it lightly. For a handful of years now, Olga has been applying her artistic skills and a keen eye for detail to a diverse range of professional and personal work. Much of her work revolves around package design and branding, which extends to everything from products and logos, to paper art, catalogs, and even wedding invitations. That stuff is, of course, in addition to her creative work in advertising and web design. On top of all that, Olga somehow finds the time to paint and do her own typography and t-shirt designs. It may be difficult to pinpoint a specific artistic style throughout Olga's work because she's been involved in so many different projects. However, one thing that is strikingly clear is how adaptable her skills are, both professionally and creatively.

Was there a specific moment in life where you realized you wanted to pursue a creative path?

Ever since I was in 1st grade, I tinkered with art. It was my hobby, my passion, and my way of learning how to express what I felt. Like most kids, I enjoyed drawing and that made me apply for a specialized art school on top of my regular school hours. I then went on to study math and chemistry, which is not very close to art, but I do believe numbers can have their own magic and can be definitely applied in art. By the time I graduated high school, I knew I wanted to study something that combined art and mathematical precision, which turned out to be graphic design. From that point on, everything fell into place. My life revolved around art and communication. I love everything about art and all the ways you can express yourself through it. I guess I picked the right industry.

Who are your design heroes?

That's a good question. I have so many! I am constantly on the lookout for new artists, but I would say my biggest inspiration within the past few years has been Yulia Brodskaya - I absolutely love her work. I also really admire Doyald Young's art, I was privileged to meet him in 2008, and he was an amazing artist.

Can you share some details about your most recent project?

I have a number of projects I am working on at all times, but the most recent one was a package design line for an innovative product that should change people's lives. I was fortunate enough to lead the entire project and collaborate with a number of very talented people, which helped this new line come to life. I will post the outcome of the project on my Coroflot portfolio soon.

Are you currently working on any projects?

Yes, I have quite a few in the works at the moment. I have a number of personal projects as well as a bunch of work-related projects that are quite fun. I really like having the opportunity to explore different aspects of design, and by having different projects I am able to pursue different areas of design, photography, and art in general.

Enter a caption (optional)

Walk us through some of your process for creating.

Most likely [I take] a very standard approach, but I can go ahead and outline it for you. In the beginning, I like to learn some basics about the project I am tasked with. Some initial questions are: what is the goal and scope of this project, who is the target audience, what timeline are we working with, do we have a VPG developed, what constraints and what budget do we have? The next steps consist of putting together a plan of execution and finding the best approach for the project. I love to use the co-create approach, which consists of 4 stages: discover, frame, ideate, and build. You can go through those stages a number of times until you find the solution. From there it's research and refinement until we nail it! This way of working gives you the opportunity to manage the entire process, but also lead every aspect of design with a great team.

What is your favorite project that you've completed (professional or personal) and why?

I have quite a few I really enjoyed working on, but my personal wedding invitation was the one that gave me the most joy. I didn't have too many restrictions and had the opportunity to play with paper engineering and new ways of working. This project gave me the opportunity to create a series of custom made invitations that were each very challenging and fun at the same time.

What tools do you find yourself using repeatedly?

Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and the Exacto knife.

Is there any work out there that you've come across recently that you've really loved?

I don't have a particular artist I want to mention here, but anything related to paper art or innovative package design execution would catch my eye.

Enter a caption (optional)

Do you have a ritual for getting in design mode (music you listen to, certain exercise, food you eat) aka a productivity tip?

I am afraid I don't have anything special I can share. In my case, good mood equals a good productive day and the few things like music, exercise, good food, seeing my kids happy, and nice weather could help me get to that sweet spot.

Outside of you professional life, do you have any other creative outlets or hobbies?

I love photography, paper art, and painting. Unfortunately, I don't have enough hours in the day to work a little bit on everything, but I do try.

If you're stuck on a desert island and can only bring three tools, what are they?

A set of acrylics and brushes, an Exacto, and a camera.

Do you have any tips for getting the most out of your Coroflot portfolio?

Having a good range of different and strong projects can help. Keeping it up to date is definitely important. Maybe showing a little bit of your personality and what projects you really enjoyed working on can land you with the right people and a great project.

To see more of Olga's work, check out her Coroflot portfolio!

Connect with Us

• 7
• 6
• R
• I
• n

Recommended Posts

• 

  Above the Fold: Danielle Malmgren, Fashion and Textile Designer

  by Coroflot Team
• 

  Above the Fold: Andre Fangueiro, Industrial Designer

  by Coroflot Team
• 

  Above the Fold: Cesar Idrobo, Industrial & Footwear Designer

  by Coroflot Team