BEHIND THE DESIGN
Nice to meet you!
I’m Ana Lac
Based in New York City, I am a product designer that believes in pushing boundaries and creating meaningful experiences.
HOW I GOT HERE
I grew up studying computer science and economics, but when it came time to choose a college path, I found myself drawn to a more creative career in visual arts.
Eventually, I realized that wasn’t the right fit and shifted toward design, which let me explore creativity in a more practical way. Even then, I felt like something was missing, until I came across product design. It was the perfect mix of creativity and structured thinking, and I knew I had found the right direction.
MY DESIGN PHILOSOPHIES
Through my creative journey so far, I have learned so much. They say art imitates life, and that cannot be more true for me. Here are some beliefs I live by:
Failure is the key to success.
I have spent so much time pivoting between disciplines, and with every new pivot, it’s easy to think that I once again failed at finding my niche. However, without continuous trials, it’ be impossible to find something that is greater. I strive to fail fast, and fail often.
Seek the unknowns in your surroundings.
When others have amazing ideas, I get filled with such a sense of inspiration. There’s always people one can learn from, and I prefer being overwhelmed with unknown concepts than underwhelmed by lack of innovation.
Limits force the best creativity.
Life is far from fair. I had my share of obstacles, but instead of letting them limit me. I’ve tried my best to innovate and find different paths to lead to where I want to end up. Learning to embrace limits have shaped my best ideas - in design and in life.
Never settle, but have gratitude for the present.
I pride myself on continuously working to improve myself, but I have also learned to be grateful for all that I have accomplished to date. To look forward, while also being kind to the present self has been key to keeping me sane.
Do everything with a sense of responsibility.
Regardless of if the project is something I am insanely excited about, or simply a means to an end, I cannot get it past myself to present subpar work. Everything I do, I try to complete with enthusiasm and care.
MY CREATIVE BACKGROUND
In my beginning of artistic pursuit, I studied Fine Arts at Pratt Institute. My favorite class was a six-hour live drawing class where I could get into a flow state and throughly enjoy the present.
Afterwards, when I transferred to complete an AAS degree in Communication Design at FIT, I discovered the joy of being able to create for my favorite brands.
When I’m not designing, you can find me catching up on reading, trying to perfect my matcha latte recipe, or heading to an art museum :))
I also love chatting, Please reach out to me here:
toana_lac[at]fitnyc[.]edu