Today we’d like to introduce you to Giovanna Brin
Hi Giovanna, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Hi! I’m a surface pattern designer born in Italy, to an Italian dad and a Cuban mom. We moved to vibrant Miami, Florida 27 years ago and I’ve been living here ever since.
Most people have never heard of surface pattern design, and frankly neither had I before I ventured into this design space! It is a very rewarding industry where I get to create patterns and prints to be used on everyday products, such as kid’s pajamas, swimsuits, journals, planners, or wallpaper among others. I create the designs and then collaborate with art directors to get those prints on their products and into stores. I’m currently aspiring to work with Crate & Kids, West Elm Kids, Ikea and others. I also have a shop on Society6 where the public can easily purchase from an array of different products with my prints on them – from phone cases and laptop cases to yoga mats and throw pillows.
My artistic journey began very early in life as my mom, dad, sister, and grandfather were all talented artists, so I was always surrounded by paint brushes and acrylic paints. I continued my journey by earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design from Florida International University, and went on to become an art curator and graphic designer at a French-owned art gallery; then an interior architect at a few global architecture & design firms; and a home stager as an entrepreneur.
Then, I was introduced to the world of surface pattern design, and I fell head over hills in love with it right from the start and decided to jump in with both feet! At this point, I truly believe that my college education and my professional experience in creative design fields have allowed me to arrive where I am today and where I am meant to be: a surface pattern designer! They were pieces of a puzzle – I enjoyed them all, but didn’t feel like any one of them truly fulfilled me. Now that I brought all those pieces together, I feel complete and proud to be a pattern designer.
I live, breathe and dream patterns!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Honestly, my struggles have mostly been internal. I struggled to feel 100% fulfilled and happy in all those years of working in architecture firms. But now I see that those were all necessary for me to gain the knowledge and experience that are helping me succeed today as a surface pattern designer. So if anyone feels a little stuck and needs encouragement, know that every obstacle is a necessary stepping stone in your journey towards greater things! I truly believe that.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My style is joyous, uncomplicated, minimalist with a hint of tropical Miami.
I love creating original patterns that go so well on baby apparel, beddings and the pet industry among other industries. And I love working with brands that align with my aesthetics to bring the prints to life through their products.
My designs are pretty unique as they are a good mix of two things: tropical flair – inspired by the lush Miami environment that surrounds me daily. And Italian style – as the culture, food, history and architecture of my childhood in Milan have heavily influenced my approach.
Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
The Covid-19 pandemic has been a roller coaster ride for me personally. It definitely brought some sorrows and fears, but it also brought joys and silver linings. I was blessed to spend more time at home with my husband and two little kids and realized just how important those moments are.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.giovannabrin.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giovannabrindesigns
- Other: https://society6.com/giovannabrindesigns
