About

xaviermwhitney@gmail.com

LinkedIn

Art has always been an essential part of my life, shaping my identity and guiding my aspirations. From an early age, I discovered a deep connection with visual expression, a passion that has only grown stronger over time. My creative journey began in elementary school when I was accepted into the Gifted Visual Arts Program at the Old Dominion Center. This opportunity provided me with a strong foundation in artistic techniques, allowing me to explore my creativity in structured yet imaginative ways. As I advanced to Virginia Beach Middle School, I continued refining my skills, learning to see the world through an artistic lens. However, it was during high school that my artistic perspective shifted dramatically, leading me to embrace digital design as my primary medium.

High school was a turning point in my journey. My growing interest in digital software led me to enroll at the Advanced Technology Center, where I was introduced to professional design tools such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro, and InDesign. These programs became the foundation of my creative process, allowing me to experiment with new techniques and refine my skills in visual storytelling. Through this experience, I discovered the power of graphic design—not just as a tool for artistic expression but as a medium capable of conveying complex ideas and emotions. This realization fueled my decision to pursue a degree in Graphic Design at Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Arts, where I am currently working toward earning my bachelor’s degree in May 2025.

At VCU, my passion for design has evolved into something more profound. My work is now driven by a desire to visually represent Black expressionism and activism, reflecting both the beauty and the challenges of being Black in America. Every day, I am inspired by the vibrancy of my culture and the strength of my community. However, I am also confronted with the harsh realities of systemic inequity and prejudice. These experiences shape my artistic vision, compelling me to create works that provoke thought, evoke emotion, and spark dialogue. Through my art, I aim to offer a lens into my perspective, encouraging viewers to engage with the complexities of race, identity, and social justice. Some of my pieces may challenge conventional narratives, while others provide intimate glimpses into personal experiences, but in every creation, I strive to foster connection and understanding.

Beyond my academic pursuits, I am eager to apply my skills in professional settings. I am currently open to part-time positions, freelance projects, and creative collaborations that allow me to further develop my craft while contributing to meaningful artistic endeavors. Graphic design is more than just a profession for me, it is a platform for storytelling, advocacy, and change. As I continue to grow as an artist, I remain committed to using my work as a means of amplifying voices, sparking conversations, and leaving a lasting impact.

For those interested in collaborating or learning more about my work, I welcome opportunities to connect and create together. Through my journey, I have come to understand that art is not just about aesthetics, it’s about perspective, emotion, and the ability to inspire. My goal is to continue pushing boundaries, challenging norms, and using my creative voice to make a difference in the world.

Curriculum Vitae

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Education

Kempsville High School
September 2017 - June 2021

Advanced Technology Center
September 2019 - June 2021

Virginia Commonwealth University
Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree - Graphic Design
2021 - 2025

Employment

Marshalls - Mens Merchandise Associate
Virginia Beach, VA
May 2020 - August 2023

Grimalkin Records - Graphic Design Intern Richmond, VA
June 2024 - August 2025

ART 180 - Multi-Media & Branding Intern
Richmond, VA
January 2025 - August 2025

FreeLance Graphic Designer
Remote
Present Day

Referrals

Sherrelle Rodgers-Jackson / Proffesional
SHCRJ@proton.me

Mecca Harris / Professional
meccamade9@gmail.com

Maurice Leoni-Osion / Professional
mauriceleoniosion@gmail.com

Tanesha Powell / Proffessional
powelltnw@gmail.com

Nicole Killian / Professor
nicole@nylondip.com

HH Hiaasen / Professor
hmhiaasen@gmail.co

Skills

Ceativity, Innovation, Typography & Layout, Branding & Identity, Attention to Detail, Adaptibility, Flexability, Time Management, Multitasking, Team Collaboration, Problem Solving, Deadline Adherence, Adobe Software (Photoshop, Illustrator, Indesign, Premiere Pro, Lightroom), Canva, Digital Illustration, Photo Editing, Visual Communication, Color Theory, Print Production, Photography, Vector Graphics, Social Media Design, Brand Strategy, Copywriting, Logo Design, Marketing Design, Product Design, Sketching, Generative AI

Exhibitions

Overbooked Senior Capstone Exhibition
Untelevised Installation
May 2025

Hol’On We Stay Here Exhibition
Curator & Identity Designer
August 2025 - September 2025

Role Reversal Exhibition
Untelevised Installation
October 2025 - Novemeber 2025

Awards

VCU Black History in the Making Reward
February 2024

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