Thomas Grace

2022, B.A., Interdisciplinary Art and Design Studies

Please tell us a bit about yourself.    
A passion for the arts and an eye for design led me to this IADS when I graduated from high school. Aside from my work, I enjoy traveling, diving, snowboarding and various other things!

Can you tell us about a specific project/opportunity/event/exhibition that shaped how you perceive your role in your chosen profession?
After graduating from UNT, I was inclined to take a job opportunity that did not pertain to graphic design (or at least I had thought). I began working with my family business doing catering and concessions for massive events such as the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, the State Fair of Texas, and the Fort Worth Livestock Show and Rodeo. At first, I did not see any use for my degree in IADS, but slowly, I realized that art and design are all around me. You name it, from signage to prints to booth decorations and menu boards. I began applying my design knowledge to my job, leading me to improve significantly sales and the overall aesthetic of our eye-catching food stands. Surprisingly enough, food can be designed based on how it looks and tastes, so you can apply design to almost every aspect of life (it’s awesome!).

“My first profit from design-related work came while studying at UNT. I had taken an interest in digital artwork — specifically  Adobe Photoshop, which I learned in my IADS classes. I used my skills to create a fun food-themed piece for Whataburger and, more specifically, the Whataburger Museum of Art. The corporation sent me an application to accept $150 for the work. I was thrilled to see potential in the field.”

Did you participate in an internship or apprenticeship while you were in college? What lessons did you learn there that have proven helpful in your career?
I interned for Studio 11 Design in Dallas during my senior year of college. I quickly learned that my interests in art were not aligned with the interior design profession, but that was okay! My advice would be to do something that makes you happy. You’ll try many different things in life and won’t want to be stuck somewhere that doesn’t push you to your full potential. I’m now a business owner and a concessions manager.

Tell us about the first dollar you earned as a creative.
My first profit from design-related work came while studying at UNT. I had taken an interest in digital artwork, specifically with Adobe Photoshop. I used my skills to create a fun food-themed piece for Whataburger and, more specifically, the Whataburger Museum of Art. I submitted my attempts multiple times until they finally reached out with one they loved. The corporation sent me an application to accept $150 for the work. I was thrilled to see potential in the field.