I was in my senior year at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco when I landed a high-profile project with my design mentor, Primo Angeli—the legendary figure in brand identity, packaging, and poster design. Our first collaboration was the globally recognized Salt Lake City 2002 Winter Olympics skater poster, followed by the redesign of the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce logo. That early opportunity grew into a lasting creative partnership and a meaningful friendship.

My career officially began with an internship at Primo’s renowned design firm, Primo Angeli Inc., located in Potrero Hill, where I was immersed in the rigor and clarity of branding, illustration, and packaging. The firm was home to a respected family of designers, and I was fortunate to learn from many of San Francisco’s most accomplished creatives—an experience that laid the foundation for years spent honing my craft alongside top designers, illustrators, and branding agencies throughout California’s Bay Area and Silicon Valley.

Throughout my senior year, I continued working closely with Primo at his home-based studio in Mill Valley, CA—alongside Deanie and their spirited young pup, Nick. After graduation, I returned to Primo Angeli Inc. as a full-time designer, continuing to grow under Primo’s guidance and the influence of a studio culture that deeply shaped my creative voice.