Cristina Barna
Studio Profile
Hello everyone, it's nice to meet you! I'm Cristina, Creative Director at Scholar NY. On the job, I believe that styles and techniques are only mediums to connect with people and that every creative outlet is worth exploring. In life, I like to use a similar approach by opening myself up to new experiences and trying (almost) everything at least once. When I’m not working with the amazing team at Scholar, you’ll find me cooking up some homely Italian food, obsessing over my black kitties or belting out a showtune at karaoke.
Creativity is not an intangible force floating in the ether but something that starts within people. The best creative environment is one where artists take care of each other. As a director, you can be decisive but flexible, you can lead while trusting in your team. Being kind is a skill.
What’s something about your job no one knows about?
Throughout my career, when I dreamed of becoming a CD I always focused on the creative part of the title. While this is still the main focus there are plenty of other facets to the job that strictly revolve around the so-called “soft skills”. From clients to team, the day to day of a CD is really about interacting with people and facilitating communication with the goal of a common creative vision.
What are the things you look for in portfolios?
Curiosity, whether it’s learning multiple skills or going deeper within the few you already think you know. And intention behind every choice, from the art you make to how you present yourself. I love when you can see work that has been obviously thought out - it shows eagerness for quality and work ethic.
SOCIAL MEDIA Q&A
Any design trends you are a fan of? And if so, where do you stay plugged into inspiration?
I've been loving how CG has started to veer off of just aiming for realism and heading towards multiple expressive styles that transcend technique. Mixing textures, painterly overlays and new ways of conveying depth. Think of "Into the Spiderverse" or "Wild Robot" to name a few recent ones. Any type of media is always a great source for inspiration, from feature to fine art, to music and print.
What’s a program you’ve been favoring lately?
Slack? Jk. Don't get as much time on the machine in my role anymore, but I do love me a traditional Photoshop, Illustrator, AE, C4D and Redshift combo.
What music do you listen to while you work?
I do love a good acoustic-folk-cafe-in-a-fall-thunderstorm background (maybe with a lit candle on the side). Or maybe some good 'ole jazz/swing/blues to keep going at a good pace. If I'm getting hyped for a client call though, you'll find me gearing up with anything from Led Zeppelin to Broadway showtunes.
What's your go-to karaoke song?
Based on the mood and the audience it can go from 2000s bops to Broadway showtunes, taking a detour into the Emo years and straight into 80s and 90s ballads. It's dancing or crying, no in-betweens.