Today we’d like to introduce you to Craig Morris Jr
Craig, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I was born and raised in the Blumeyer Housing community in St. Louis, MO. I am a proud graduate of the University of Missouri-St. Louis, where I received my Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design, and currently work full time as the Associate Graphic Designer at Logo Graphics DNA. I also manage my own company, LLC, offering freelance graphic, web, and artistic design services.
Believe it or not, growing up, I wanted to be an art teacher. I have numerous certificates and trophies from art contests as a kid/teen. As I explored that career path, I was then introduced to computer graphics and I realized I was more intrigued with that. From there, I combined my artistic and digital skills and found my true passion. I was blessed to have a mentor along the way as well, the late Timothy Atchinson, may he rest in peace.
Mr. Atchison actually led me to meeting my current employers, Mr. David Beckford and Dr. Wilfert Lee, at Logo Graphics DNA. Being an Associate Graphic Designer has helped enhance my skills, by way of digital graphics and overall communication, and has opened plenty of doors for me to expand my business. I’ve had the opportunity to take on various projects and partnerships within the community, including organizations such as St. Louis NCAAP, 100 Black Men, The Links, Inc., Mokan CACC, St. Louis Big Brothers Big Sisters, Better Family Life, Inc., Stowers Realty Group and McCormack Baron to name a few.
When I’m not in front of my computer; I’m out with family and friends, playing basketball, listening to music, or thinking about the next city or country I should visit. I’ve previously traveled to Jamaica and Mexico, and both were awesome! Other than that, I am enjoying the great food throughout my community. I love food!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
A smooth road? Not at all, and I’m still learning along the way. Being a freelance designer, I stay busy most of the time. I had to learn how to step away from work at times and make time for myself.
That probably was and still is the biggest obstacle/challenge in my career journey – work/life balance. I take my computer with me everywhere. EVERYWHERE. Vacations, birthday parties, kickbacks, (laughing) EVERYWHERE. If I have a deadline and I can bring my laptop, it’s definitely coming with me.
