As a CalArts BFA in Design alumnus, I specialize in logos, lettering, and publicity. I originated the concept and drawing for the award-winning ‘California Raisins’ campaign, earning an initial distinguished scholarship to the California Institute of the Arts, where my work was further recognized with the CalArts Wasserman Scholarship. During this time, I trained in conceptual design under design luminary Lou Danziger while simultaneously dedicating four years to studying figure drawing under master draftsman and Disney veteran Elmer Plummer in the Character Animation Program—training that remains the foundation of my design aesthetic today.

​

I began my career at Image West Ltd. VFX Hollywood as an Assistant Art Director, converting graphic designs into high-definition film and creating optical titles for the Scanimate analog animation computer. I then joined Graphic Orb in North Hollywood as a Graphic Designer, crafting movie ad slicks and theatrical print campaigns for Universal, Paramount, and Columbia Pictures. My artistic journey continued at MCA Records (now Universal Music Group), elevating renowned recording artists through innovative graphic design. Driven by a passion for design and community, I eventually launched a successful studio in Santa Barbara’s historic Fithian Building, specializing in hand-drawn logos, illustration, print advertising, and publicity—until my greatest creative adventure arrived: raising our two sons!

​

Beyond my life as a designer, I am first and foremost a parent. While raising the boys alongside my husband—my greatest achievement in life—I found my calling in their classrooms, leading hands-on workshops in silk screening, paper making, and drawing, and founding a popular student Sign Painters Club. Serving four years as a marching band booster and six as an assistant scoutmaster further deepened my understanding of the pride and pressure that comes with guiding a child toward their future. Later, running my own estate sales business, Santa Barbara Treasures, sharpened my eye for art history and enduring value before I transitioned full-time into art education. Today, I’m honored to bring that collective experience to the next generation—partnering with families to navigate portfolio building and college prep, and helping young artists turn their creative passions into a clear, professional path.

~ Patty Berns