Today we’d like to introduce you to Jaime Rhiannon Zeal.
Jaime, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I like to think I fell in love with art at a young age. Like most children, I loved the messiness of paint and exploring new ideas by simply using my hands. My parents encouraged me to draw and interact with creative mediums often. Although not in traditionally creative professions, they are both artists in their own way and I admire their ability to bring a unique personal style into the professional world.
As you can imagine, art was my favorite class in school. Surprisingly though, so was math and science, and I was very involved in sports even through my college years. I struggled to find a career path that would encompass all of my different passions. When I discovered Graphic Design, I was shocked to find a job where you could create all day and still make a steady income. I enjoyed learning about the science and psychology of design decision making. The Graphic Design program at TCU did an incredible job of introducing me to all forms of art and creative communication within various career opportunities.
My path to get to where I am now was very bumping, constantly under construction, and full of wrong turns. Even in the darkest time though, I continued to create. A couple years ago I signed up for a glass blowing course at UTA. With absolutely no talent or prior experience, I was terrified and excited. As it turns out, morphing glass at 2400F can be extremely healing. I spent every chance I could in that burning room. Most of the time creating nothing noteworthy. But when I thought I failed, the final work was still beautiful. It gave me confidence and revived my inspiration. I am forever thankful it brought me to where I am now.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
In 2016, I began as a part-time Graphic Designer at TCU Athletics, and last November, I accepted a new position with the Frog Club to serve as their Communication Coordinator. My job is the dream come true I didn’t know I had. In my professional work, I follow one golden rule: First, it has to successfully solve the problem, then you can make it look good. I think too many times creatives get lost in making something so attractive and eye-catching, that they forget the purpose. A billboard can stop traffic on I-30, but if it doesn’t have a clear message or draw people to your brand, its purpose is decoration.
Most of my work today is print or digital communication directed toward TCU supporters and the Fort Worth Community. I create everything from direct emails to bus benches, mailers, social content, t-shirts, billboards, banners, event logos, concession cups, digital ads and more.
I’m lucky I work at a place that is so full of passion. Every day I get to support our incredibly talented student-athletes and staff that continue to shake the world. My purpose is to tell their story and create an unparalleled environment for them to succeed during and after their time in college.
What would you recommend to an artist new to the city, or to art, in terms of meeting and connecting with other artists and creatives?
I don’t know the original author, but I remember a quote that touches this point simply: “Designers are meant to be loved, not to be understood.” I think loneliness comes from a place of feeling misunderstood. As human beings, we desire to be seen and loved, and as artists, we don’t always fit a mold that other people can understand.
I have found that the creative community can be so welcoming; however, some of my closest relationships are with those that think and believe differently. I encourage artists of all kinds to get involved in their community and events around them. You were created for a reason, and there are people who can’t wait to know and be inspired by your perspective.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
Apart from the TCU community, people can see my work through my website or the TCU Frog Club social accounts. A lot of my personal art is not available, but who knows what 2019 has in store!
Contact Info:
- Website: jaimezeal.com
- Phone: 7133206432
- Twitter: @JaimeRhi
Image Credit:
Eichel G. Davis, TCU Frog Club, TCU Athletics
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
