Ricardo Hood: Turning graphic art into a venture

Ricardo Campbell, Youth Focus Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:The technologically savvy Ricardo Hood is turning his creativity into income through graphic designing and information technology (IT) networking skills, which have helped him to run his business.

"I started doing graphics in 2007 while attending Kenilworth Heart Academy. I was fascinated with an effect my classmate created where he duplicated himself in a photo, and it was there [that] my interest evolved in computer graphics," the 23-year-old Montego Bay resident said.

Ironically, Hood did not have an appreciation for art while he attended high school. It was only after the exposure to graphic art that he seriously began teaching himself how to master the skill.

Hood, who is considered one of western Jamaica's top graphic artists, said he thought it necessary to obtain other technology skills in order to be more marketable, so he obtained certification in computer repairs and network administration. He completed an associate degree in information technology at the HEART College of Innovation and Technology in Montego Bay and now works full time as a network administrator.

"Through my business, Brainz Designz, I have had the opportunity to work with clients from Belgium, the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, and [even] as far as Suriname. While I mostly work within the entertainment industry, I have the capacity to work on corporate design projects," he said.

Hood added that while IT is very competitive, he is not perturbed by the competition as his reputation speaks for itself.

"Every graphic designer has their loyal clients. All I seek to do is to continue providing quality service, being innovative, and allowing the work that I have done to speak for itself."

"Persons can check out my portfolio, brainzdesignz.com, where they will get a look at what my skills are and how I can help to represent the concept they want to bring to reality," Hood said.