We had the good fortune of connecting with Carolina Carrizosa Bernal and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Carolina, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Since my childhood, I’ve been drawn to the world of crafts. I started taking clay classes as a hobby on weekends, and in school, I always leaned towards art, exploring new materials in projects for all my classes, including chemistry. I always knew I wanted to dedicate myself to creating innovative objects that inspired me or were useful in my daily life. On the other hand, I watched one of my cousins, who had already started his career as a designer, always creating new and innovative things, enjoying his work. When I graduated, I doubted whether studying industrial design was the best choice, but in the end, I think it was the right decision. I started my career with the conviction that design is more than learning; it’s a lifestyle. You have to immerse yourself in design every day to be able to create and improve constantly.
During my five years of study, I explored various materials such as wood, plastic, clay, metals, and even coffee, creating products that were useful for users and innovative packaging that stood out in a market full of possibilities. Over time and with professional experience, I discovered that I wanted to explore other fields and challenge myself to do new things.
I developed an interest in visual merchandising and commercial interior design, so I decided to embark on another adventure: leaving my country and pursuing a master’s degree in interior design. I have been a student of interior design for four years now, learning more every day about how every choice within a space can affect and communicate to everyone who uses it.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Creating different experiences for others has always appealed to me. Knowing that with everything I do, whether it’s a space or an object, I can help or impact someone is truly fulfilling. My two careers have led me to conclude that as designers, we have a significant challenge: to assist all the people we believe will use our creations and provide them with unique experiences. Each person who believes in us and uses what we create deserves a special experience.
Furthermore, I have always been characterized as an observant, hardworking, and disciplined individual who greatly enjoys working as part of a team to gain various perspectives and learn from those around me.
The decision to start a new career in a field so different from my primary one was not easy. Firstly, deciding to move from Colombia was challenging as we are very attached to our families, friends, and culture. Adapting to a new culture with a different language has not been easy and has presented many obstacles. However, I have learned that to reach my goals, I must work hard, bring out the best in myself in each project, and continue believing in my dreams. Additionally, I have the opportunity to share a small part of my culture, beliefs, and tastes.
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.
I currently reside in Savannah, Georgia, a small incredibly welcoming town where many of us from larger cities find peace and enchantment in its beautiful surroundings. To begin my itinerary, I would suggest a visit to River Street, which I believe is one of the most picturesque parts of the city. There, we could enjoy a leisurely walk along the river, explore the markets, indulge in delicious cuisine with a spectacular view, and visit one of the city’s most charming hotels, the JW Marriott.
I would also recommend brunch at Collins Quarters, where you can try their French toast, or Bing Bon Bodega, where you can enjoy a delicious bagel. Additionally, a visit to Forsyth Park would be delightful. We could stroll through the park, have a picnic on the grass, and enjoy the occasional concerts held there in the afternoon.
For evening entertainment and fun, I would suggest Peregrin at the Perry Lane Hotel. There, we could savor cocktails, enjoy a cheese platter by a cozy fire pit, and admire the beautiful nighttime view of Savannah.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to dedicate my achievements to my parents and family, who have been my main support throughout this journey. They inspire me and help me continue with my career, encouraging me to believe that I can always do more, bringing out the best in me with every step I take forward as a professional. I would also like to thank my friends, who have always supported me unconditionally. They are always there, providing approval or suggestions for the things I decide to do. They also push me to build a better version of myself, reminding me that I always have people willing to help me in every step I take as a designer.
Website: https://issuu.com/carolinacarrizosa/docs/portfolio_feb_-_2023
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/carolina-carrizosa-319845127
Image Credits
Mauricio Herrera Manzur