We had the good fortune of connecting with Alan Briseno and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Alan, why did you pursue a creative career?
I have always been interested in the arts, from music to traditional drawings. My main passion and the one thing I have received complimentes on are my hand styles like graffiti, calligraphy, and script. Initially, when I graduated high school, I lived in El Paso, Texas, and the only art school I applied to was in San Antonio, which was too expensive to afford with tuition, housing, car, and gas. So I ended up at the University of Texas El Paso, where I studied International Business for a semester before I realized that was not for me. I moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where I attended the Art Institute of Atlanta. I started school as a traditional artist and later discovered the world of graphic design and how it shapes everyday life. I graduated in 2019 and received my Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration and Graphic Design. Since graduation, I have worked doing graphic design for different print shops.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
When I graduated in 2019, I mainly did small freelance work for friends and family. Eventually, I got my first job at a print shop as a graphic designer. The pay was not great, but I was learning so much about the print side of my industry, specifically large format signage. After that, I worked in textile/fabric printing. I learned how that sub-category of printing works. One of the most powerful tools I have learned is Networking. A former co-worker told me about an opening at my current position at Alphagraphics – Sandy Springs. I am now the main graphic designer for two separate locations of Alphagraphics. This position has taught me about small format printing, such as business cards, flyers, brochures, and other print media. I have always had the ability to learn quickly. In all the positions I have worked in, I was forced to learn quickly to keep up with client orders and deadlines. My journey has not been easy, but it is very fulfilling.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friends came to visit from El Paso, the first place I would take them is for breakfast at Waffle House. Then we would hit up The Belt Line in Midtown. At the Beltline, we would walk around, check out the art, and bar hop until we were hungry. Later we would grab some food at The Vortex Burger for some crazy vibes and good drinks. The next day I would try to go to an Atlanta United game. Lastly, I would try and go fishing at Acworth or Sweetwater Lake and kick back.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First I would like to thank my parents. My mom has always been supportive of my dreams of being an artist. I appreciate my dad for showing me the importance of hard work and dedication. I also have to thank my Aunt and Uncle. They opened their home to me and supported me throughout college. My Aunt and Uncle have been the best mentors I could ever have, and I love them both. Finally, I would like to recognize my girlfriend. She is the reason I get out of bed every day. She encourages me to always put 100% into everything I do. She brings out the best in me, and I strive to succeed in our future. Without this support system in my life, I would not have the confidence to be in my current position. Thank you for everything!
Website: https://alanbriseno.com/home
Instagram: @under_pressure_design
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-briseno-67b2baa1/
Image Credits
Photo 1 – Graduating from the Art Institute of Atlanta. 2019 Photo 2 – My final portfolio show for class. 2019 Photo 3 – A family photo at my graduation – 2019 Photo 4 – A tour of the Cartoon Network Studios and i had to pose next to Ed. 2021 Photo 5 – The T-Shirt design that won the 2018 Atlanta Cheese Fest contest. 2018 Photo 6 – My girlfriend Abby and my dog Panchito on Valentines Day. 2021