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Kate Carlgren

B.F.A. Graphic Design

I am a graphic designer dedicated to aligning my love for the environment with personal
growth, exploring how nature can act as a restorative force for the human mind. My struggles
with mental health encouraged me to find ways to cope with self-criticism and overwhelm,
which inspired me to begin the intentional practice of being present in the world around me.
Through slow beach days, rainy window-gazing, and seasonal walks, I’ve learned that I am just
a small, living fragment of the universe; a realization that brings me comfort, purpose, and
clarity. The interplay between my mind and the natural world deeply informs my artistic
practice, allowing me to evolve alongside the work I create.

Though I specialize in poster design and hand-lettering, I embrace a wide range of design
projects and techniques. When starting a new project, I begin by creating a mood board to
capture the visual inspirations and styles I aim to explore. My design style is characterized by
muted, earthy colors and organic forms that emulate the patterns of nature. Additionally, I
express myself through intentional, yet non-conforming linework, echoing the dynamic
rhythms found in nature. Each piece I create reflects how humans perceive the natural world,
which guides, inspires, and redefines my ever-changing design style.

Nature grounds my design practice, but I am not confined to its limits. My work seeks to
inspire others to remain grounded in the experiences and passions that give them purpose. I
have found that fulfillment comes from connecting with the people, places, and practices that
energize us; for me, art has the same, if not an even stronger, effect. I strive to uplift others and
encourage them to pursue deeper connections with the world around them, fostering a rich life
of abundance and meaning. In cultivating these connections, I believe artists can let go of the
idea that perfection determines value, as self-expression and vulnerability in art have the
power to unite creators. By embracing this perspective, we can create communities to nurture
the collective artistic spirit and channel that energy to empower others. Guided by nature’s
rhythms, I seek to create work that restores balance within myself and reminds others that
creativity, much like the natural world, flourishes through imperfection and chaos.

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