Alberto March

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.

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.

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.

Accessible PDF/UA, print and digital editorial design, layout for corporate communications, brand identity, marketing and communication materials, social media campaigns

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.

In 1988, my first professional design project was for an optical brand campaign in Venezuela.

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.

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.

My emotions are focused on developing an idea that conveys the purpose of the message: happiness, satisfaction, and commitment.

When a design is approved and fulfills its purpose, I experience a tremendous sense of fulfillment.

When the design is well received by the intended audience, it fosters brand loyalty.

Let's focus on the message's purpose, the art of typography, illustration, photography, and the use of space.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

To find the perfect designer, it's essential to explore their background, expertise, accomplishments, and awards.

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

Lamps, furniture in general, a coffee table and the trophies won.

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.

Listen, observe, stay updated, be part of a non-profit campaign, and be humble and open-minded.

I don´t see anything negative about being a graphic designer; on the contrary, it is a blessing.

Together as a team, we involve the client in our step-by-step process.

Listening, observing, researching, keeping your skills up to date, and being aware of all aspects of art and culture worldwide are important.

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.

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.

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.

As CEO, I have gained valuable experience in three distinct sectors: beverages and food, beauty and health, and the science industry.

The World Health Organization in Geneva. Before Ericson, Bayer, Pepsico, Lafarge, Holcim, Oracle, Taca Airlines, Avianca Airlines, Cornell and South Miami University.

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.

I want to stay updated on what is necessary to enhance design for conveying crucial messages and content.

Usually, I receive the briefing and formulate the design approach. If necessary, I have a team to assist with specific aspects.

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.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/grafmarc/ albertom@grafmarc.com +34648083859

Thank you for this opportunity. You have asked comprehensive questions. I genuinely appreciate it.

My father was a Spanish painter who inspired my interest in all aspects of art. I obtained my Bachelor of Arts degree in Graphic Design in 1985, followed by another Bachelor of Arts degree in Advertising and Marketing in 2000. At the age of 14, my immersion in art and music became the foundation of my artistic journey. In 1985, I collaborated with renowned artists such as Victor Valera, Alirio Palacios, and Luisa Richter. This experience greatly contributed to my development as a photographer, artist, and graphic designer. From 1980 to 1990, I participated in collective exhibitions throughout Venezuela, Argentina, Peru, Brazil, Colombia, and Central America. My artistic achievements were recognized 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 the Galería de Arte Nacional in Caracas, Venezuela, hosted an exhibition featuring my black-and-white photographs titled "Portraits of My Inner Self." This exhibition toured contemporary art museums across South America for two years. Additionally, I presented 14 pieces under the title "Giants of Chicago" at ArtPrize in Grand Rapids, Michigan, as well as at the Consulate of Venezuela, UNAM University of Mexico in Chicago, CuCut, Paspartu Gallery in Barcelona, Spain, and The Thompson Center in Chicago, IL. Notably, my most recent exhibition, "Victoria," was showcased at UNAM University of Mexico in Chicago from September 26 to October 26, 2013. It was also presented in Barcelona at Casinet D'Hostafrancs during the International Month of Dance. Furthermore, "Giants of BCN" was exhibited at Cucut, Osbar, and BY, Paspartú galleries in Barcelona from 2014 to 2015.

The ultimate motivator for graphic designers is passion. Passion makes you love what you do, and for graphic designers, passion serves as the primary motivator. Designers who are passionate about their work develop a genuine love for what they do, which fosters excitement and curiosity in their projects. This enthusiasm not only leads to a greater sense of pride and fulfilment in their results but also enhances their creativity, productivity, and overall quality of work. Cultivating this passion can lead to continuous growth and innovation in their craft. They are excited and curious about your projects and proud and happy about your results. Passion fuels your creativity, productivity, and quality.

I specialize in creating accessible PDF/UA documents, as well as delivering professional editorial design and layout services for corporate communications. My expertise extends to developing brand identity, marketing materials, and comprehensive social media campaigns in both print and digital formats.

Young designers can take several steps to achieve success in their careers: Build a Strong Portfolio: Create a diverse portfolio that showcases your best work. Include projects that highlight your skills, creativity, and versatility. Seek Feedback and Mentorship: Connect with experienced designers for mentorship. Constructive feedback can help you grow and refine your skills. Stay Updated: Stay informed about industry trends, tools, and technologies. Follow design blogs, attend webinars, and participate in workshops to enhance your knowledge. Network: Attend design events, conferences, and local meetups to connect with other professionals. Networking can lead to job opportunities and collaborations. Develop Soft Skills: Communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills are as important as technical skills. Work on these abilities to improve collaboration with clients and colleagues. Experiment and Innovate: Don’t be afraid to take risks and try new styles or techniques. Innovation can set you apart in a competitive field. Freelance or Intern: Gain practical experience through internships or freelance projects. Real-world experience helps build your portfolio and understand client needs. Use Social Media: Share your work on platforms like Instagram, Behance, or Dribbble to reach a wider audience and attract potential clients or employers. Be Persistent and Resilient: The design industry can be challenging. Stay motivated, keep improving your skills, and be open to learning from failures. Understand the business side to navigate your career effectively, and familiarize yourself with the business aspects of design, such as contracts, pricing, and client relations.

To be a competent designer, one must understand design fundamentals and apply them intuitively while considering the end user's needs. A good designer creates visually appealing designs, ensuring proper font sizes and colour contrast. Nevertheless, becoming a great designer involves more than meeting a client's expectations; it requires delivering work that surpasses their initial vision. A great designer elevates the client's desires by incorporating unexpected elements, prioritizing user needs, and balancing form and function. A great designer achieves these objectives by producing a visually striking final product that satisfies both the client's and the user's requirements.

I have the opportunity to be a judge, and my criteria to determine if a design conveys its purpose are as follows: - Is the message or action clearly articulated? - What is the intended message or action for the viewer? - Will this design effectively engage the target audience? - Are the messaging and visual components appropriate for the intended audience? - Have colours and fonts been selected purposefully and with design tools? - Does the design maintain a high standard of quality? - Are the images clear, the text legible, and are the colours and elements suitably aligned?

Investing in professional design demonstrates a dedication to professionalism and conveys a persuasive message to potential clients or customers. The importance of creating a positive first impression is immense; therefore, enlisting a professional designer is crucial for enhancing this initial interaction.

If given the chance, I would redesign the brand image of my hometown to create a more modern and striking identity that showcases the benefits of living near the capital of Catalunya while enjoying the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea and its natural parks. My town, Calella, is a municipality in the Maresme region of Spain, situated 50 km from Barcelona, 50 km from Girona, and just 6 km from the Montnegre-Corredor Natural Park.

When I lived in Chicago in 2008, I had the opportunity to develop the Giants of Chicago series, which offers a hyper-realistic view of the city’s iconic architecture while studying digital photography. These rising icons are transformed in the theatrical space of the photograph with blurs and splashes of colour. The multiplicity of viewpoints that March depicts in these works adds an extra dimension to the buildings. The imagery evokes a sense of awe for these monumental structures and invites a longer look at the urban landscape. In reimagining his surroundings, March creates an entry point to appreciate where he lives. I felt completely at home in the city's vibrancy, which includes its festivals, eclectic neighbourhoods, and fervour for sports teams. The photographs resonate with the rhythm of a bustling and dynamic place. This series underscores the cultural and historical significance of these giants. I would like to dedicate my time as a graphic designer to exploring the possibility of creating Giants for any city with skyscrapers around the world.

In my opinion, it is not quite an issue in our field. The ingredients are not just one; they include listening to clients' needs, evaluating and understanding the message to be conveyed, knowing the target audience, and conducting research to grasp the value of the content that the design must deliver.

Saul Bass, Stefan Sagmeister, Chip Kidd, Michael Bierut, and Jessica Walsh.

Saul Bass earned recognition for using kinetic typography—animated text—in film title sequences and end credits. His outstanding work is showcased in classics like Psycho, Vertigo, West Side Story, The Man with the Golden Arm, and The Shining. In addition to film posters and credits, Bass designed logos for brands like Quaker Oats and Kleenex. While these logos have since changed, they still reflect their beginnings as designs by Saul Bass. I have always admired his design work because he followed unconventional trends instead of imposing a singular style, effectively conveying messages tailored to the intended audience.

The most notable design I created was a poster in 2013, during my time in Barcelona, representing the major festivity of my neighborhood. The poster for the Festa Major de Sants participated in a contest organized by the city of Barcelona to select the winning design. The jury consisted of ordinary people, including a housewife, a secondary school teacher, and an electrician—none with a background in design or related fields. Moreover, winning the contest held sentimental value in honouring my roots as a Catalan citizen.

The first and most important aspect of our career as graphic designers is to keep our technological skills up to date. Additionally, we should observe how the world evolves in conveying messages from other cultures and remain open-minded.

Design is a field focused on exploring how individuals — known as ‘audiences’ — interact with the constructed environment while taking into account aesthetic, functional, contextual, cultural, and societal factors.

The individuals who helped me become a graphic designer are Victor Valera, Luisa Richter, Alrio Palacios, Picasso, Saul Bass, Ciro Marchetti, and Cruz Diez. My greatest supporters are my clients, who trust my abilities and services to deliver designs that convey their work and address society's needs.