We had the good fortune of connecting with Shawn Barr and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shawn, what’s your definition for success?
For me, success isn’t just about achieving milestones or reaching certain goals; it’s about fulfilling purpose in life. And I believe that purpose is rooted in love—love for others, love for humanity. So, when I think about success, I ask myself, “How can I best express love and compassion towards others?” It’s about making a positive impact in the lives of those around me, whether it’s through acts of kindness or simply being there for someone in their time of need. By focusing on how I can most successfully love people, I find fulfillment and purpose in my journey. It’s not about what I accomplish for myself, but rather how I contribute to the well-being and happiness of others that truly defines success for me.

One of my favorite ways find a sense of fulfillment is through creativity, particularly in design. Through my work, I have the opportunity to communicate messages, evoke emotions, and inspire others visually. Whether it’s designing impactful pieces, creating visually appealing branding, or crafting engaging content, I see each project as an opportunity to make a positive difference in the world. By channeling my creativity into my designs, I aim to uplift and empower others, sparking moments of joy, inspiration, and connection. In this way, I believe that my passion for graphic design aligns with my purpose of loving people by bringing beauty, innovation, and meaningful experiences into their lives.

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.
My professional journey has been a testament to the power of connections and the individuals who have recognized and nurtured my passion. From a young age, I vividly recall spending hours drawing and immersing myself in artistic endeavors.

It was in late middle school that I stumbled upon graphic design as a potential career path, thanks to the guidance of my science teacher. She provided me with access to a school-issued laptop, equipped with a program called ‘Inkscape,’ akin to a free version of Adobe Illustrator. During school lunches, I honed my skills, crafting my first logos and delving deeper into the realm of visual communication.

My journey into the professional world began humbly, working in a small print shop where I gained hands-on experience in the intricacies of the printing process. Although it may have seemed mundane at the time, I now recognize the invaluable lessons gleaned from that experience.

Subsequently, I joined the creative team at Vintage Church during my early high school years. Under their guidance, I not only honed my design skills but also developed a profound appreciation for teamwork and collaboration. My tenure with them continues to this day, a testament to the bonds forged and the admiration I hold for the team. In addition to my commitments at Vintage Church, I dedicate time to freelance logo design projects, cherishing every opportunity to express my creativity and serve clients.

Currently, I am pursuing my education at the Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) with a clear goal in mind: to one day contribute to the innovative ethos of Apple. The company’s unwavering commitment to intentional design resonates deeply with me. As someone who believes in the transformative power of purposeful design, particularly in fostering human connections, I am excited by the prospect of aligning my values with those of Apple.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Living in the picturesque city of Savannah fills me with immense joy, and I am delighted at the prospect of sharing its beauty with others.

Savannah’s charm lies in its stunning natural landscapes and historic architecture. Despite its pre-car layout making driving a CHALLENGE, navigating the city on foot is a delightful experience. I would enjoy leading visitors through a tour of my favorite buildings, streets, and scenic spots, highlighting the lush greenery that adorns every corner. Jones Street stands out as a pinnacle of beauty, while the lively riverfront, peaceful Forsyth Park, and the timeless Victorian architecture never fail to capture my heart.

A significant aspect of Savannah’s allure lies in its culinary scene. Despite being a budget-conscious college student, I prioritize indulging in quality dining experiences whenever possible. The city has many restaurants, bars, and bakeries that never cease to impress. Brunch, in particular, holds a special place in my heart, and I often find myself treating to delectable dishes at my favorite coffee haven, Origin Coffee Bar [OCB]. Owned by the warm and welcoming Matt and Elise Higgins, OCB not only serves exceptional fare but also fosters a sense of community that envelops visitors in a palpable atmosphere of warmth and hospitality.

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 am profoundly indebted to the remarkable individuals who have shaped my life; their presence has been indispensable, and I am immensely grateful.

First and foremost, my family—my parents, grandparents, brother, and cousins—have been the cornerstone of my journey. Their love and support have penned the narrative of my life.

Vintage Church holds a special place in my heart, having left an indelible mark on my character and values. Through meaningful connections, invaluable mentorship, and a profound lesson in compassion, VC has sculpted the essence of who I am today.

The guidance of mentors like Preston Steele and Brian Sumner, alongside their exceptional families, inspires me daily. The Steele family, in particular, has embraced me as one of their own. Matt Smith and Ricky Bourne have imparted wisdom beyond measure. Gratitude extends to every teacher and professor who has enriched my path, including Marcus Lawson, Lisa Hughes, and Jorge Montero. Additionally, I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with talented creative teams at both Vintage Church and SCAD Savannah, under the leadership of Dustin Lohr and Emilio Arellano, respectively.

Lastly, I am blessed to have Mollyn McFrederick by my side—a cherished best friend and beloved partner. Her presence enriches every aspect of my life, and I cannot imagine navigating this journey without her.

Website: www.shawnbarr.design

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shawndbarr

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawn-barr-ba920820a?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

Image Credits
Jason Conforti, Cameron Surratt, Nicole Telesz

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.