Embracing Change: My Journey as a Designer from the US to Berlin
- Apr 13
- 5 min read
Walla Walla, WA --> Seattle, WA
The broken handle of my overweight suitcase sits in the wire caddy of the SmartCarte I paid $8 for (robbery). Somehow, I am at peace about it.
Moving to a new city always brings me a mix of excitement and uncertainty, but this time, I feel fearless. My first experience in Europe was autumn of 2023. I had a job that wasn't paying me, making the $3000 I came over with only useful for rent. In a matter of months, I realized my job didn't plan on paying me and I took matters into my own hands. I found myself making more money selling people my jewelry on the beach then the original job I came over for. I knew my destiny had begun when I made my rent in one day selling my designs to foreigners on the beaches of Valencia.
Moving from the US to Berlin will not only involve a change in location but also a significant transformation in my creative path as a designer .My style, who I allow in my life, how I create, what inspires me; has completely changed since my last time in Europe. Shit, it's changed extensively in just the last 3 months. This transition has challenged my perspectives, pushed me to explore new styles, and helped me evolve in ways I never imagined. This new self awareness is what makes me even more fearless. I am ready to embrace the person I'm meant to be; a creative, driven, passionate, freak. In this post, I want to share how I think my design approach and style will transform in Berlin and what I’ve learned about embracing change through creativity.
Discovering Berlin’s Unique Creative Pulse
Berlin’s art scene has always been something I have been drawn to, captivating my imagination and inspiring my creative pursuits. The vibrant atmosphere of the city, coupled with its rich history and diverse cultural landscape, has made it a magnet for artists and creatives from all around the globe. In 2025 alone, I had at least a dozen people, mainly strangers I encountered in various artistic settings, tell me I had a "Berlin vibe." This phrase, often used to describe someone who embodies the eclectic and avant-garde spirit of the city, resonated deeply with me. I had always thought that moving there was unrealistic, a distant dream overshadowed by practical concerns and uncertainties, until I met my partner; another sexy artist who has resided there for a decade. My partner's passion for the arts and their deep connection to Berlin's creative community opened my eyes to the possibility of making this vibrant city my home. I love being around like-minded nerds and creatives who share my enthusiasm for art, culture, and innovation. However, I am now more ready than ever to immerse myself in an environment filled with people who are just as driven and wonderfully crazy as I am. The idea of engaging with individuals who are unafraid to push boundaries and explore unconventional ideas excites me. Even if I don't make a single friend upon my arrival, the community of raw authenticity that Berlin offers makes me eager to dive into this new chapter of my life. The energy of the city, with endless galleries, street art, and underground events, promises an endless source of inspiration and collaboration. I look forward to contributing my own voice to this dynamic web of creativity, where every corner seems to tell a story and every encounter has the potential to spark new ideas and new connections.
How I Think Berlin Will Influence My Design Style
Use of textures: Berlin’s street art and underground culture is inspiring me to experiment with tactile elements. (3D printing, using new textures to create color, furniture, jewelry, using rust from old nails to bring a dingy tank-top back to life)
Mixing old and new: The city’s architecture blends historic buildings with modern design, inspiring me to combine vintage and contemporary styles in my projects.
Emphasis on sustainability: Berlin's eco-friendly approach, which resonates with my values, is reminding me of the significance of considering environmental impact in my choice of materials and design methods.
Reflecting on My Design Evolution Since 2023
Currently, my jewelry design work has a strong beach and summer theme, featuring feminine charm necklaces, 24k gold anklets, and shells, all infused with my clear inspiration from Dadaism. This stylistic approach has enabled me to participate in Miami Fashion Week and Ibiza Swim Week. Regarding my collage work, my mantra of "the freakier, the better" remains consistent as I continue to create them, but I'm seeking more in this area. Perhaps I'll use my collages to craft furniture, clothing, or something I haven't yet envisioned. I always aim for my art to tell stories and evoke emotions, but now I'm excited to explore how much further I can push these boundaries.
Key Changes in My Approach
From precision to playfulness: I will allow more room for experimentation and happy accidents.
From client-driven to passion projects: I will dedicate more time to personal projects that reflect my values and interests.
From digital-only to mixed media: I will incorporate hand-drawn elements, collage, and physical textures into my digital work.
This evolution has made my portfolio more diverse and authentic. It also opened doors to collaborations with local artists and designers who share this experimental spirit.
Life Hacks for Designers Facing Big Changes
Moving to a new city or starting fresh in your career can feel overwhelming. Here are some strategies that helped me embrace change and grow creatively:
Go on walks and get to know your surroundings
Visit galleries, attend local events, take the classes you've always wanted.
Let the city’s energy inspire your work.
EMBRACE CHANGE!!
Get out of your comfort zone, bitch. The human brain is not meant to be happy, it is meant to be comfortable. Push yourself and your creative boundaries.
Keep a scapbook journal
Document your thoughts, sketches, and inspirations daily. Save the reciepts, stickers, or trinkets you find on the street to create your own lThis habit tracks your growth and keeps ideas flowing.
Be open to failure
Trying new styles means making mistakes. Treat them as learning opportunities, not setbacks.
Balance custom work with personal projects
Use passion projects to experiment and recharge your creativity.
How Change Fuels Creativity
Change forces us out of comfort zones and challenges our assumptions. For designers, this can lead to breakthroughs in style and technique. I feel in my heart that my move to Berlin will show me that evolving as a designer means embracing uncertainty and being curious about new influences.
Looking Ahead: Continuing the Journey
As I'm on hold with the ticketing counter over my broken luggage, I daydream of my life that's just about to come. I’m excited to keep evolving. I'm happy with who I am in this very exciting and very distinct period of my life. I plan to explore more sustainable design practices, collaborate with diverse artists, and push the boundaries of mixed media.
If you’re facing a big change in your design career or life, remember that transformation takes time. Stay curious, stay open, and let your environment shape your creativity.
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