Inscription and Introspection by Mena McGill (IDEA Grad 2026)
Meet second-year student, Mena McGill (IDEA Grad 2026)! Her self-portrait for IDES 133 - Visual Studio taught last year by Jay Bassan is shown above.
“My journey at IDEA School of Design has been a transformative one. The ‘real-world’ environment offered here is incredibly beneficial. My art is all about crafting narratives from the echoes of old stories, and a rustic used bookstore provides the perfect stage for this artistic endeavor.”
Read Mena’s story and check out some of her other work for a glimpse into student life at IDEA School of Design at Capilano University.
Self-portrait
My self-portrait is a heartfelt homage to the sources of my deepest inspiration, enveloped in a snug haven of warmth and boundless creativity. My art is all about crafting narratives from the echoes of old stories, and a rustic used bookstore provides the perfect stage for this artistic endeavor.
Self-portrait mood board by Mena McGill (IDEA Grad 2026)
“The Assignment” by Jay Bassan, Instructor
Create a mood board visualizing your Passion, Super Power, Values, Purpose and differentiation (students can use any medium for this).
“The Goal” by Jay Bassan, Instructor
To have students think clearly about how to imagine themselves as a brand and use their final self-portrait as an expression of that. This becomes one of the more interesting projects since it happens near the end of class and students are now comfortable enough with the camera.
I remind students that similar to sketching, where you decide where to put the pencil, pen, or mouse to compose your drawing, where do you put the camera to capture a moment or tell a story?
I get some interesting work.
Experience so far at IDEA School of Design
My journey at IDEA School of Design has been a transformative one. Collaborating with fellow students in various design projects has significantly contributed to my growth as an artist. The experience of participating in group projects and engaging in constructive critiques has provided fresh insights into the creative process, challenging me to view my work from new perspectives. This environment has not only expanded my skill set but also pushed me to venture into uncharted territories, all while receiving invaluable mentorship from seasoned professionals.
Featured Work
Time's Delicate Gardener
I created this editorial illustration for a class project inspired by the article '4000 Weeks.' The article delves into the intricacies of time management and the inherent impossibility of accomplishing everything. In this artwork, I convey the idea of investing our time judiciously, focusing on what truly matters. This concept is symbolized by a man attentively tending to flowers and 'pouring his time into them.'
Taxi Driver; Grunge Album Cover
In my first venture into the grunge style of design, I crafted an album cover that conveys a mood of solitude and introspection. It feels as though you're embarking on a lonesome journey down an uncertain road that stretches into the distant unknown, with traffic lights that hang like suspended memories. To infuse the piece with vividness, I've added yellow accents to a few elements, contrasting with the black and white backdrop. In an effort to embrace the true essence of grunge, I've incorporated grain and an uneven roughness into the design, reflecting the gritty authenticity of this art style.
The Lighthouse Keeper
"The Lighthouse Keeper" is a short story that offers a charming yet dramatic glimpse into the daily life of a lighthouse keeper as an impending storm looms on the horizon. Drawing inspiration from the storied history of the Tillamook Lighthouse, better known as the 'Terrible Tilly,' situated on the Oregon coast, the narrative weaves a tale of everyday routines set against the backdrop of increasingly turbulent weather. As the story unfolds, the skies darken, mirroring the impending tempest, while the lighthouse, nearly swallowed by it all, stands as a resolute beacon of hope and resilience in the face of nature's fury.
Why did you choose IDEA School of Design over other schools?
When it comes to why I chose IDEA School of Design over other institutions, it's because of the program's customized design curriculum and innovative approach. The 'real-world' environment offered here is incredibly beneficial, as it equips students with practical experiences that directly apply to future career opportunities. My goal is to be job-ready upon graduation and a sought-after candidate in the competitive design industry.
“IDEA School of Design’s Bachelor Of Design in Visual Communication is a career-oriented program for the next generation of creative professionals with concentrations in branding, illustration and interactive design. IDEA School of Design’s Interaction Design Diploma is a two-year program with career outcomes in the field of digital product design and user experience.”
“The purpose of your portfolio is to demonstrate your creative potential. We assess portfolios on drawing skill, design and creativity.”
Advice for those considering applying to IDEA School of Design
My advice is simple: Work diligently and don't hesitate to ask questions. The program provides all the support you need, but your dedication and willingness to grow as a designer will ultimately define your success. Embrace the opportunity to try new things – it's where you'll find your most creative and innovative self.
"Breakthrough Moments" at IDEA School of Design
Some of the most significant breakthroughs I've experienced during my time in this program have resulted from my failures. While these failures were undoubtedly frustrating at the time, looking back, I've come to appreciate how much I've grown through these setbacks. I can vividly recall my early struggles during my first year, especially when it came to creating effective layouts and working with typography – skills that were relatively new to me. However, upon returning for my second year, I can confidently say that something clicked into place. With greater exposure and practice, I found these challenges far more manageable.
Summer Highlights
This summer, I had a remarkable week in Alaska with family, amazed by glaciers and wildlife. Back home, I showcased my art at local markets and enjoyed the serene lake, making great memories with family.
What's your favourite music video?
Jungle - Back On 74
