We had the good fortune of connecting with Chan’ta Hunter and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Chan’ta, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I’ve come to realize, that risk-taking wasn’t as challenging as a kid, compared to how it’s become over the years. When feeding into what’s online, other opinions, and sometimes being your worst critic – I’ve grown to value taking risks as if I’m my childhood self again. You never know the what, when, or how, unless you take that chance with putting yourself out there but be sure to make fun of all the endeavors that come with it. For instance, one of the graphics I included in this interview, captures “Protect Black Women,” holding a powerful quote from the great, Malcolm X, above the woman’s crown. Although that design originated from a college design prompt, it was also a risk player. A susceptible topic, that not many acknowledge but it is also one I have to face every day. I think it’s important you make the best of the wins and losses because in the end you do “win” by taking that risk. You gain knowledge by taking chances, and I try to do so as a designer, most importantly by being a light with my creativity.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am an alumnus of the University of Prairie View A&M University, with a Bachelor of Science in Architecture and a minor in Digital Media Arts. My love for architecture first began when studying only architecture at Florida A&M University, for two years, but I found myself more passionate in the area of designing as a whole after transferring. Finishing my studies at PV, I became interested in the process of storytelling and creating a graphic/visual representation of projects. With the diversity of projects I worked on during internships, courses taken, and personal experiences, I have become more efficient with problem-solving, storytelling/presentation, Adobe Creative Cloud, and brand identity. As a designer, I focus on traditional/nontraditional techniques and contemporary approaches to architecture and art. Since graduating, I’ve gravitated toward Graphic Design and the marketing/printing industry. I look to gain knowledge and experience as much as I can. I look to gain different perspectives on what I am good and not good at, similar to taking risks. You never know until you at least give it a chance, and thankfully I’ve had some great experiences and met people along the way. What I’ve taken from life thus far would be my passions regardless of how others see or understand them. My mission is to make your idea come to life with my creativity abilities, however, be light with doing so. It makes my day, to be able to make others’ day. I know it may be broad, but I think that’s my purpose to be a light, and the purpose of life in general. Don’t limit yourself. Learn, evolve, transform, and then become the best you can be.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Honestly, because I’ve grown up within DFW and Sherman, TX… I’d probably show all around North Texas with sightseeing and giving a little history of my raising in Texas since my best friend has never been here. I still cherish coming from a small country town and would be sure to take her to get some Braum’s Ice Cream. I don’t have any special places in the city, so we’d probably be seeing the city together just cause I find more interest in finding new places and trying new things regardless. So, I’d make it a fun endeavor altogether but be sure to give her a true Texas experience.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to give a special shoutout to both of my parents, my grandmother, and my siblings, for the support and love along my journey. Special shoutout to my professors and colleagues I’ve worked with, who helped me embrace the designer I am today and my skill sets. I’m very thankful to have had the opportunity of attending both Florida A&M & Prairie View A&M University, in which both experiences taught me the importance of; my culture, networking, embracing challenges, and standing true to what you believe in. Lastly, I thank the man above who gives me the ability to do all things. I do this for him and my loved ones passed on.
Website: https://clhunter99.wixsite.com/optimisticdesigns
Instagram: Business – @optimistic.designs | Personal – @justdoit.nonike
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chan-ta-hunter-4901a4170
Facebook: Chan’ta Hunter – Optimistic Designs
Image Credits
Chris Gittens – MLB Player for the Houston Astros, GoJoy-Takes An Expoler to Meet Adventure (Adventures Brand), C.V.M.-DFW Singer/Songwriter, D’s Destination Travel & Vacation Travel Time – Travel Agents , Chan’ta Hunter – Optimistic Designs Justin Cain – CAINQO™️ (Clothing Brand)