Take a look at Heloisa Helena’s portfolio of work (also known as TikaDesign) and you’ll notice fun is at the heart of everything she creates – whether it’s a book cover that’s sure to stand out on shelves or product packaging that captures the essence of a brand. The Brazilian-born designer has honed her bright, bold style since she first began working on 99designs in 2016. Since then, Helena has supported clients both big and small across the world with her vibrant work that tells a story like no other. We spoke with Helena about her career as a freelance graphic designer, her unique style, how 99designs has supported her career and the projects she’s most proud of.
Name: Heloisa Helena
99designs handle: TikaDesign
Location: Sau Paulo, Brazil
Speciality: Branding, packaging and books
Hi Helena! Tell us about yourself.
Hi, my name is Heloisa Helena. I am originally from São Paulo, Brazil. I hold the 99designs account under the name TikaDesign.
Can you tell us a bit about your design career? How long have you been a designer?
Since 2016, I’ve been working full time as a freelance graphic designer on 99designs and I’m very satisfied with my career thus far! This platform has been instrumental in my growth as both a designer and a professional. Collaborating with clients from all over the world has helped me to develop a unique style. Before working as a graphic designer, I lived overseas for ten years in cities like San Diego, Madrid, London and Amsterdam and worked in the hospitality industry.
If you had to explain your design style to someone who hasn’t seen you work, how would you describe it?
I really like to create fun and colourful things. My design style is very bold. I’m very passionate about traveling, nature, art and music and this all has a big influence in my design style. For me, there’s no limitations when we talk about design. I like to explore new areas and do things that I’ve never done before. I’m excited by every type of design so when I go out, I like to look at signs and packages – everything that tells a story makes me happy. I like to bring that to my projects.
What originally brought you to 99designs?
I started to work on 99designs because of the flexibility to work from home. It allowed me to take care of my baby girl who was born prematurely. My husband also works on the platform under the name KisaDesign – ‘Kisa’ is his nickname for me. We chose this platform so we were able to stay home for our daughter. She needed special care in the beginning so we were home for her, working full-time on 99designs. It was very intense but very good for us because we found a place where we could actually make money and build our design career.
What do you like about working on 99designs?
I really like to work on 99designs because of the flexibility that it brings to my work. With clients from all over the world, collaborating with people from different countries and cultures brings new perspectives and a uniqueness to my work. The platform gives me this opportunity to connect with clients from everywhere. I first started out taking part in contests on 99designs, and then when I started winning, all my clients continued returning to me for more work through one-one-one projects.
What impact has working on the platform had for you personally?
Working on 99designs has had a huge impact on my life. I’ve learned to deal with people from all over the world with different cultures and countries. I’ve improved my language skills. I’ve developed my own and unique style. I’ve become a better professional.
What kinds of clients do you like to work with the most?
I don’t have a preference. I just love to work! Working as a graphic designer is my dream job because I love to create art. I really like when a client gives me the freedom to create but I also like to work with clients who have a specific idea in mind. I like to translate the idea and materialise it with the design. I like both ways of working – whether it’s open or more specific. Creating good design is just like a baby – born out of love and desire.
Can you tell us about any particular clients you have loved working with on 99designs and how connections with your repeat clients have formed over time?
I have many clients that I’ve loved working with but I do have one that comes to mind and that’s FUN CLUB. I won a logo contest for them and after that, we started to work on so many projects together. I ended up developing all of their packaging, catalog and product designs. It was a long and rewarding relationship. My client ended up sending me some stickers that I’d created on 99designs as well as a hand-written letter with a cute message thanking me for my work.
Another client that I loved working with was ZANDI LANDI. I participated in a logo contest for them but I didn’t win. They really liked my work though and after the contest, the client invited me to create the brand identity and packaging and we’ve been working together ever since! We’ve built a wonderful, long-lasting relationship. So that’s my message to all designers – if you don’t win the contest, don’t worry. There could still be an opportunity for you!
Finally, what kind of role would you say 99designs has played in your success as a designer?
It’s been responsible for my growth as a professional graphic designer. 99designs for me was like a university where I learned so much about design itself. Working with contests made me more resilient. Working directly with clients developed my patience and understanding of client needs.
Love TikaDesign’s work?
See her full portfolio or hire her for your next project.
Source link
