Faculty
Fine Artist and Adobe Educator Chana Messer Joins Graphic Design Faculty
Since receiving a BFA from Tel Aviv University in Israel and advanced degrees in printmaking and computer graphics from Pratt Institute and Center for the Media Arts, respectively, Chana Messer has worked as a fine artist, graphic designer, trainer, curriculum writer, and educator for over 30 years. The daughter of Holocaust survivors and a first generation Israeli immigrant, Chana uses fine art across mediums to explore her heritage and has exhibited her work in Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Miami, and across South America and Israel.
An Adobe Certified Expert, Adobe Education Leader, and Adobe Community Professional, Chana has served as a speaker at Adobe events across the U.S. and overseas. In addition to running her Los Angeles-based design studio, Mac in Art, where she offers creative consulting, technical skills, and art direction, Chana has taught at universities such as USC, UCLA, California State University, Long Beach, and Otis College of Art and Design. We recently chatted with the new member of FIDM’s Graphic Design faculty to learn more.
Where do you trace your first interest in graphic design? I realized that I could utilize my fine art knowledge and start designing for clients. I took extra classes in color theory and design and started my graphic design journey.
Tell us about your design studio Mac in Art: Mac in Art is a small boutique design company started in 1990. I design and create logos, style guides, posters, brochures, and corporate identities. I also consult designer and mentor students as part of Adobe projects that I am involved with.
Can you talk a bit about your fine art career? I have loved painting since I remember myself, from not digital to digital paintings. I’ve exhibited all over the world and my fine art brings me to my design and conceptual design. I can bring to the classroom array of experience and artistic information.
You've taught for more than 30 years at top institutions. What do you love most about teaching and why? I love the experience with my students and am always learning more from the creatives. Teaching keeps me young and on the spot since I always have to keep learning and know the up and coming design tools.
What are you most looking forward to in terms of teaching at FIDM? Interacting with students and designers, and I’m excited to meet industry people and influence the young students.
Learn more about Chana at chanamesser.myportfolio.com.
Categories: Graphic Design Faculty
