Biography

Ava Sestito is a graphic designer from Hopewell Junction, New York. She holds an Associate’s Degree in Visual Arts from Dutchess Community College and a BFA in Graphic Design from the University of New Haven. Her work has been displayed in multiple student shows at the Mildred I. Washington gallery at Dutchess Community College, as well as the Seton Gallery at the University of New Haven. She also curated, installed, and executed the 2021 Senior Design Exhibition at the Seton Gallery. During her time in college, Sestito designed for many nonprofit organizations such as Greystone Programs and Rain of Hope. After college, Sestito worked as a full time graphic designer for Direct Advantage Magazine where she gained experience in advertising design.

Designer Statement

     My childhood interest in art developed from a hobby into a career after discovering my love for graphic design. I am able to combine my interests in both art and business as I pursue this field. As a designer, I am focused on branding and advertising design, so I look to posters, billboards, flyers, and social media for much of my inspiration. I take the client’s wants and needs and begin to visualize the possibilities. 

     Brand identity and advertisements are essential to any successful business; poor brand identity—or a lack of a proper advertising campaign—can negatively impact a company. Making a company’s ideas come to life and providing designs that will professionally benefit them is what motivates me. My attention to detail is greatly beneficial to my work and my design process.   

     My design process also borrows many elements from the natural world. Nature has always inspired and influenced my work, professionally and personally. The asymmetry and imperfections of nature are aspects I try to channel when creating, since perfectionism tends to be my downfall. 

     Being in this field has shown me how important the “behind the scenes” work is to a successful company. I hope to work with clients who need specific improvements or those who are starting new. As my practice continues, I would like to become more well-versed in digital illustration and motion graphics. I plan to expand my skillset in these areas as I become more experienced in order to increase my opportunities.