Makayla McDonald
Graphic Design Portfolio 2026
This work focuses on how information is arranged and how each decision supports the message. I’m drawn to hierarchy, balance, and the relationships between elements, using structure to guide how something is read and understood.
Each project approaches design as a way to solve a problem while still feeling cohesive and intentional.
Goals
Develop a brand identity and voice for a new U.S. zoo, extending across exhibits, programs, and advertising.
Concept
college inspired zoo
Collaborators
Abbie Durham Anna Claire Curtis
A
in Arizona centered around a snow leopard mascot.
Lulo Bold
ITC Avant Garde
Gothic Pro
Pencil Packaging
Goals
Develop a 1950s-inspired packaging system with a cohesive visual identity.
Concept
An outer space–themed pencil package inspired by atomic-age design, using retro typography, pattern, and an alien mascot. Folds into an easel when opened.
System
Pencil package with two companion products, unified through color and graphic elements.
Gothiks Round Book
Menu Design
Goals
Create a professional layout using constructivist design principles in InDesign.
Concept
A menu for “No Name Cafe” using bold, abstract shapes and color inspired by constructivism. Features a gatefold with a die-cut revealing the tagline.
Square One
PT Sans Narrow
Direct Mail
Goals
Design a direct mail piece for Crystal Bridges Museum promoting an exhibition and encouraging membership renewal.
Concept
A mailer inspired by Helen Frankenthaler’s soak-stain style, featuring postcards, a calendar, and a fold-out easel display.
Playfair Display Bold
Helvetica Neue Regular
Book Covers
Goals
Design a series of book covers for adult readers that are cohesive while remaining distinct.
Concept
A reimagined series of Rachel Carson’s Ocean Trilogy using abstract ocean forms that flow across all three covers. Each book is differentiated through color and subtle embossing.
Baskerville SemiBold
Minion Pro Regular
Goals
Design a series of book covers for adult readers that are cohesive while remaining distinct.
Concept
A reimagined series of Rachel Carson’s Ocean Trilogy using abstract ocean forms that flow across all three covers. Each book is differentiated through color and subtle embossing.
Collaborators
Abbie Durham Anna Claire Curtis
District
Gin regular Avenir Light
Navigators
Catchland
Octin College Bold
Rockwell Bold
Restaurant
Jack Folkies Vantage
Escape Room
Zuume Edge Bold
DIN Alternate
