Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Lionel Taurus. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Lionel, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
You can’t be a Designer without ever having a deep sense of imposter syndrome. In my opinion, unless you don’t push your skills a lot and stay in your comfort zone, it will inevitably happen in your career.
Imposter syndrome is something I never overcame and would never want to get rid of because, in the creative industry, there will always be something new, something different that you’re not used to yet. It would kill my creativity to not feel like a fraud, it would decimate the excitement I always have of starting anything from scratch.
Discovering something new that makes me uncomfortable, question myself, fail, and learn, is what ultimately makes me grow from the challenges that come with this feeling.
The way I go about it is to always say yes to any type of project, even if I have zero experience in it because I want to see how far can I push what I already know to overcome problems and what else can I learn more to get even better and get the job done.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I like to call myself a Multidisciplinary Designer. My career path was not very common for a typical designer because I tried to do a bit of everything to sharpen my skills and because I didn’t know at first what I really wanted to do.
I lived a few years in Paris where I designed games, illustrated some packaging for various products, created websites, and collaborated with design studios, advertising companies, product design companies, print shops, and pretty much every type of company touching design in some type of way.
This allowed me to build a diverse skill set to be able to join various creative companies in New York. I now use my knowledge combining elements of different design disciplines to solve complex problems and create innovative solutions for clients and users. This could be using Graphic Design, UI/UX Design, Product Design, Motion Graphics, etc..
I have a deep passion for illustrations and 3D and try to apply it as much as possible to elevate my work. Whether you’re designing a new product, planning architectural structures, or visualizing intricate mechanical systems, 3D design and prototyping tools offer a multidimensional approach that enhances the design process in several ways.
I’m presently part of Unfold in New York, a company from Squarespace creating and sharing visually appealing and engaging content for social.
I work there as a Senior Staff Product Designer. I provide leadership and mentorship to junior designers, helping them develop their skills and grow as designers while contributing to defining the product’s overall design vision and strategy, aligning it with the company’s goals and objectives.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back in time, for me, as a designer, the excitement of learning new tools was like embarking on a thrilling adventure. It’s still the case and in this ever-evolving design landscape, I find that being open to the latest software, techniques, and technologies is not just about staying current—it’s about expanding my creative horizons. Each new tool I embrace brings fresh perspectives and innovative possibilities to my work. This mindset of continuous learning ensures that I’m always ready to face any design challenge with enthusiasm and a wealth of creative resources.
In my design journey, I’ve also come to realize that no task is too small or unimportant. Whether it’s crafting a pop-up banner or shaping a brand identity, I approach each project with the same level of dedication and meticulousness. I’ve found that this commitment to consistently delivering quality work, regardless of project size, is a hallmark of my professional integrity. It’s a way of not only showcasing my skills but also respecting the trust others place in me to bring their visions to life.
To finish, personal projects have always been my creative sanctuary. They’re the place where I let my imagination run wild and test the boundaries of my design capabilities. Taking time for personal endeavors isn’t just about passion; it’s about growth. These projects provide a space for experimentation, where I can try out new ideas and acquire skills that often find their way into my professional work. These pursuits not only keep my love for design alive but also enrich my toolbox, benefiting both my peers, clients, and my own journey as a designer.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me was to consistently believe in me, encourage me to pursue my dreams and provide unwavering support even in the face of failure. I was never the first in my class at school or the favorite or wasn’t even extremely good at drawing. However, their belief in my abilities to succeed gave me a sense of confidence and resilience that has been instrumental throughout my life’s journey.
They taught me that failure is not a roadblock but a stepping stone to growth, and their encouragement to always keep pushing forward, regardless of setbacks, has been a priceless gift that continues to shape my character and aspirations. Their faith in my potential has motivated me to reach for my goals and embrace challenges with determination and optimism.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.filsdegraphiste.fr/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/filsdegraphiste
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/filsdegraphiste/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/filsdegraphiste
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/theabstractdesign/
Image Credits
Lionel Taurus
