Miguel Quesada Jr. is a graphic designer and founder of Tight Rope Studio, known for his versatile work across advertising, packaging, and brand design. From early inspiration from his father's artwork to personal development in the U.S. Army Reserves, he brings a unique blend of discipline, creativity, and passion to his work. His passion for design stems from the joy of seeing ideas come to life; especially through packaging, where form meets function. With a strong belief in collaboration, Miguel is building a studio rooted in craft, connection, and long-term growth.
You work as a Designer in the creative industry. What brought you into this field and what excites you in this career?
I got naturally brought into this career out of my love of art growing up! My father was an artist and someone I looked up to, so you'd find me flipping through his sketchbooks and artwork at a young age. I never knew what graphic design was until one day I had to find out how to take my artwork and vectorize it. Throughout high school I took every single art and digital art class, never once considering graphic design as a career. Instead, I set my sights on becoming an architect. I was intrigued in creating something that was both aesthetically pleasing as well as functional. In many ways, it was very similar to what a graphic designer does. So, a year into college, I eventually realized I had a deep passion in graphic design that consumed me every day, so I figured, why not pursue it?
I truly believe in turning a passion you have into a career because that drive will push you daily, not only towards success, but most importantly, towards happiness in what you're doing at the end of the day. The thing that excites me is seeing something you've created for others to experience, whether it's large or small-scaled, it's truly satisfying for me to see it leave my computer screen to wherever it's needed.
You have worked as a contractor for a couple years. Did this influence your decision to start your own business?
The contractor gigs were a stepping stone into my career. I was gracefully given a chance with these companies without any work experience and only a portfolio to show for. This eventually led me into starting my own freelance studio where I still contract freelance projects up to this point and have great clients that I still work with today!
You became a Soldier (SGT) in the Engineer Company a few years before starting graphic design work and currently remain in Reserve. What influenced your dual career in the military and in design?
I get this question a lot because it's a very unique twist of careers! Besides my grandpa serving in the Polish Army during post WWII, I'm the first one in my family to join so, I thought that was pretty cool! I was at a point in my life, after high school, where I needed some personal development after reflecting on what could be the best outcome for me in the long-term. I had a friend that was in the Army Reserves and they told me all about the benefits but, deep down, I wanted something that would challenge me mentally and give my career a kick-start so when I was back I would have no excuses. I'm now going 8 years into my last couple of months in the U.S. Army Reserves and have multiple skills that can apply to my design career and life.
During your time working in Graphic Design, you have worked many different aspects of the career, from advertising, to packaging, to presentations. Which area of Graphic Design has been your favorite and why?
My absolute favorite area of design has to be packaging design! It's a blend of technical and visual that makes the process a challenge but very satisfying to see the finished product. I've done a lot in graphic design, but nothing makes you more proud of your work when you see it on the shelves at a store or in someone's hand.
What advice do you have for individuals who want to break into the graphic design industry but aren't sure how?
Join the U.S. Army....I'm joking! Everyone has their own unique path into the field. I found out what I loved doing by doing it. It's pretty rare to break into the industry if you never went to school for it but sometimes it happens! If you're in school, that is probably the most exciting time of your career because you're learning and everything is brand new to you. Take advantage of everything around you during that time - the people, the teachers, the time. I think finding a mentor or someone you look up to in the design industry would be a great start as well so you can learn about their journey. Internships are also a great way to get your feet wet at a fast pace; I had 3 internships in a row before landing my first full-time job.
Based on your experience, do you have any tips for fellow entrepreneurs who want to take on starting a new business?
Do it. I think starting is the hardest part because of hesitation and doubt. But, overall you are your business so you get the full hands-on experience with every project you touch from start to finish. It's a lot to handle, depending on how many clients you have, but you learn pretty fast. I'm still learning and it's still new to me but anyone can start their own business. I strongly recommend it for people interested in creating their own brand.
You mention on your LinkedIn that you "thrive in collaborative environments." What advantages do you find come from working on a creative team?
Very great question because I believe every designer needs some type of collaboration. Whether it's from another designer, copywriter or anyone that's in arm's reach. My best practice came from my old boss, Scott Dluzak, where I will have someone look over my work for typos or anything that looks off. Another advantage is having brainstorming sessions if you're in a creative block. I've gotten the best ideas just talking about what's on my mind for a concept. "Thriving" means successful execution in my books and I couldn't really do my work without my collaborative teammates.
What are skills that you inherited during your career that you believe are a necessity for a career in Graphic Design?
I have a good top 3 skills that are a must in this career. Number 1: Creativity & Problem Solving. I think these two go hand-in-hand because problems that occur might need some creative thinking. Creativity on the other hand is a key necessity because it will be the reason why you got hired and what separates you from other designers.
Number 2: Communication. This is something you'll be able to learn ongoing in your career and it's an important skill-set. You'll need to be able to explain to non-designers why you made the design choices and why it resonates. Not only that, you also have to communicate with your team as I have had many concept meetings where I have to present and explain my thought-process.
Number 3: Attention to detail. Every project you touch basically needs to be perfect, right? From correct spelling to layout. I don't know any designers that send artwork out without looking at it over a hundred times! I inherited this skill once I got into packaging design and got into printing specifications, dielines, FDA standards, TTB regulations...if you know, you know.
Having been a year since you founded the business, what are your goals for the future of Tight Rope Studio?
Wow, you're right. It has been a year already! Crazy. As a solo creative studio founder I'd love to partner up with someone in the future just to expand a bit more. Along with gaining more long-term clients! Down the road I want to get to the point where I can start hiring people permanently and become like one of these local creative agencies that have been up and running for 20+ years. Now that's dedication.
What projects have you been most proud of in your career so far and why? What contributed to their success?
During my time at Sprecher Brewery Co., I had just gotten hired onto the team and one of my very first projects was to rebrand the packaging of a seasonal beer. The best part about it was the team gave me full creative freedom with a direction to make it look premium with a mix of heritage. This was my first introduction into the packaging design world and creating something from scratch at such a high scale. It was one of my most proud moments because it was the first time I had seen my work produced at a highly respected brewery and making it into people's hands. I was in charge of all the creative, so I got to do some photography and advertising for the launch party - even Milwaukee Magazine had published a page about it so it was surreal to see!
Anything else to add?
For any creatives that are getting into the field, just starting or are deep into their careers I just want to say how important it is to network! I've gotten all of my projects and opportunities just from meeting people at local creative events or reaching out via social media. You'll find yourself at a pretty good advantage if you go connect with them and learn about their journey. I've found that some creative agencies will even have open houses! Never stop learning and stay curious.
