Today we’d like to introduce you to Emanuel Cabrera.
Hi Emanuel, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Creativity has always been second nature to me. As a kid, I was never satisfied with using things as they came, rather I had to take them apart and reimagine them. In kindergarten, I’d dismantle LEGO sets just to see what new worlds I could build from the pieces. By elementary school, I was sketching superhero comics and selling them for a few cents to classmates. That spirit stayed with me through high school, where I honed my craft at an arts conservatory, refining my skills and exploring different mediums.
Then the pandemic hit. Suddenly cut off from my usual creative outlets, I turned to digital tools. I taught myself how to draw digitally, dove into Photoshop, and discovered the expansive world of freelancing and design through Instagram connections. That’s when graphic design began to really click for me as a space where disciplines converge: illustration, branding, storytelling, and more.
That journey led me to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts at FIU, where I continue to grow as an interdisciplinary designer. Today, my work spans branding, creative direction, visual art, and design, and I’ve found purpose in using these tools to craft meaningful, compelling experiences that connect with both my clients and their audience.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The journey hasn’t been easy. In the beginning, I faced more than my fair share of setbacks, such as getting scammed, undercharging for my work, and even having my designs copied by other Instagram pages. At one point, I was even banned from Fiverr after a client insisted on moving our communication to WhatsApp. But every one of those challenges came with a lesson. I learned how to advocate for my value, to create clear contracts and payment agreements, and to build healthier, more professional relationships with clients. Most importantly, these experiences taught me to truly value the people I collaborate with, and that mutual respect has become the foundation for creating more meaningful, impactful work.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My focus lies in graphic design and creative direction, working alongside artists and brands to craft bold visual identities, design immersive brand experiences, and translate ideas into reality through strategic, artistic storytelling. One of my proudest projects was leading the creative direction for Jesus Freak, a Christian streetwear brand. I helped shape the entire visual language—from scratch. With no logo, designs, or brand aesthetic in place, I built a full-fledged identity that went on to reach over 60,000 views and attract 2,000+ followers on launch day.
As a freelancer, I’ve become known for designing merchandise and album covers, often stepping in at the earliest stages of an idea and guiding clients through the process until they feel confident in both their vision and its final execution. My personal work takes on a more illustrative approach, blending realism with graphic design and pop culture influences. Whether it’s a painting, drawing, or product, I aim to create work that feels both visually striking and emotionally grounded.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
The creative market today is undeniably oversaturated, both in design and in branding. It’s easy to get caught in the noise: comparing yourself to others, replicating trends, or hesitating to start because someone else seems further along. But my advice to young creatives is to step away from the noise. Take time to truly reflect on who you want to be as an artist. Do you see yourself as a painter? A fashion designer? A sculptor? Or maybe all of the above?
There’s something within you that longs to be expressed. Once you’re clear on that, uninfluenced by trends or outside pressure, take that step of faith and begin creating. Live the art. Be the art. Share your work, post it online, show it to your friends, reach out to other artists, ask questions, get involved. The more you engage, the more you grow.
But above all, stay confident, and stay authentic. That’s what truly resonates with people. Clients and audiences aren’t just looking for polished work. They’re looking for real stories, real passion, and a real point of view. Don’t be afraid to let that shine through.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://emxncabrera.com
- Instagram: @emxncabrera
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emancabrera/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@emxncabrera
Image Credits
Isaac Bilbao
Kimberly Castillo
