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

Hi TJ, why did you pursue a creative career?
Since a child, I have always been a creator and interested in art. I started off sketching various things like automobiles, famous logos, and people. As a teen, I even drew a mural of the Spurs logo on my bedroom wall. In High School, art was always an elective for me, so you can say my passion for creating and designing grew from there.

I graduated from the Art Institute of Atlanta with a degree in Graphic Design. Becoming a Graphic Designer allowed me to showcase my art skills as an entrepreneur in various ways. I have designed logos and marketing materials for different brands and businesses. I have had my work featured on ESPN and local news outlets. I have also created book covers for several authors, provided artwork for automobiles, started a clothing brand named “Legit Now,” and was also blessed with the opportunity to redesign the school logo for my high school alma mater’s basketball and football teams. Pursuing a creative career aligns with who I am, my perspective, and what I enjoy.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As a Graphic Designer, listening to my clients and bringing their vision to life is my goal. Most of my clients are small business owners looking to make a name for their business. I know how challenging it can be to develop a brand or company, so I strive to have a clear idea of what they need from me as their creative director and Graphic Designer. Many of my clients come to me for my knowledge, professionalism, and genuine passion for creating. I enjoy witnessing the progression of the clients I serve through design and the professional relationships that also come with it.

My journey as a Graphic Designer and creative director has taken on many projects that have molded me into the entrepreneur I am today. The road to get here has not been easy but has been very rewarding. As a Graphic Designer, 4x GSHA state champion high school football coach for Cedar Grove High school, business partner for Magic Headlight Cleaning and Car Spa, husband, and father, I try to live by my life motto, do the right thing and always do right by people. Living by these keywords and prayer help me stay balanced and focused when life challenges occur.

The main goal that I would like the world to know from my story is to believe in your God-given talent. When you are blessed with a gift, use that gift. As long as you do the work and do the right thing, everything will come together positively.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Friends and family that visit Atlanta come for the nightlife, hot wings, and good Southern hospitality. I would invite them to a Cedar Grove High school football game on a Friday night during the football season. If it’s not too late after the game, we can visit Fletchers at South Dekalb Mall for some hot wings, drinks, and hang out. The next day, I would take them to Magic Headlight Cleaning and Car Spa, head to breakfast at Thumbs Up Breakfast Diner, and then go downtown to visit the Aquarium, Zoo, World of Coca-Cola, and Atlantic Station.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to thank and dedicate this shoutout to my parents. They both have always supported me, loved me unconditionally, and instilled in me to work hard since I was a child.

I would also like to thank and dedicate this shoutout to my wife and children. My wife always supports and loves me. I know she has my back if I need her help with anything. My children are my drive. I look at them every day and want to do more. I love my family.

I would also like to thank my friends and family that have supported me, referred people to my businesses, or used me as their graphic designer.

Website: www.tjrgraphics.com

Instagram: @tjgfx @decatur_teej @magicheadlightcarspa

Other: Email: TJGFX100@gmail.com

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