I’m a visual communicator working across design and advertising. I believe stories and ideas can change the world, and I bring that belief to life through thoughtful, playful design rooted in research and strategy.
ABOUT ME
My creative journey began in Toronto as an advertising art director, working on national and global campaigns for brands like Lululemon, the Directors Guild of Canada, and the Canadian Cancer Society. A few years later, I moved to London, where I joined the design team at 4Creative, followed by a senior role at Interbrand, building brands across physical and digital spaces. Currently, I’m at Hard Work Club, where I wear many hats across campaigns and brand identity projects.
For the past 6 years, I’ve also run an independent practice, developing a wide range of projects for clients including the Toronto Flower Market, IDEO.org, Radford Beauty, and The Feathertale Review. I’m passionate about using design and creativity to shape our lives and build the future we want to see.
EXPERIENCE
— Associate Creative Director at Hard Work Club
— Senior Designer at Q30
— Senior Designer at Interbrand
— Freelance Designer at 4Creative
— Art Director at Juliet Creative
— Art Director at Zulu Alpha Kilo
— Designer at Whitman Emorson
EDUCATION
OCAD University — Toronto
BDes Advertising
Minor in Media Studies
Penninghen — Paris
Art Direction
RECOGNITION
— 2025, Applied Arts Illustration and Photography Awards Jury
— 2024, D&AD Shortlist / Type Design & Lettering, AtkinsRéalis
— 2024, Creative Review Honourable Mention, AtkinsRéalis
— 2024, LADAWARDS, Bronze, Typography
— 2023, Communication Arts Winner, Typography Competition
— 2022, Communication Arts Finalist, Design Competition
— 2022, Clio Music, Silver, SickKids: “Lily’s Raincoat“
— 2019, ADCC, Bronze, EGM: Dear 2030
— 2019, Communication Arts Webpicks, Pardon Website
— 2017, Applied Arts Student Awards, Entire Ad Campaign
— 2017, Zulu Alpha Kilo Employeeship Winner
©2025 (Studio) Maria José Arias