In this Designer Spotlight, we feature Jhosue Mesias, a digital designer and Awwwards Young Jury member. With a background in programming and self-learning, he pushes creative boundaries, crafting immersive digital experiences that blend art direction, UI/UX, and storytelling. Here, he shares insights into his creative process and highlights some of his most impactful projects.
Hi! I’m Jhosue Mesias, an independent digital designer from Ecuador, specializing in UI/UX with a deep passion for art direction. I focus on creating immersive digital experiences that engage users and help brands stand out in a competitive market. My mission is to turn visual identities into meaningful experiences, effortlessly combining design, storytelling, and strategy to take each brand to the next level. I challenge conventions with a bold, innovative vision, introducing concepts that not only set brands apart but also bring real value to the digital space.
Featured Work
I’m excited to share some of my favorite projects so far! Now, let’s take a closer look and explore the ideas behind them.
YSL – Men’s Spring’25
For this project I explored a redesign for YSL Men´s Spring ´25 collection, one of the biggest challenges was ensuring that the design didn´t stray from the elegance and timeless essence of the iconic YSL brand. I focused on blending creativity with functionality, aiming to capture the spirit of the collection while enhancing the overall user experience.
Stüssy Holiday ’24 Lookbook
For this project, I explored an interactive design for the STÜSSY Holiday ’24 Lookbook. My goal was to elevate the e-commerce user experience by creating an immersive environment where users could build their own outfits, switch colors and designs, and mix pieces until they found the perfect combination. Blending aesthetics and functionality, this project redefines how users engage with digital fashion.
LV X TYLER, The Creator
I designed a concept for a fashion magazine page showcasing Louis Vuitton x Tyler, the Creator collaboration under Pharrell Williams’ creative direction. The page features a unique scrolling transition where an image initially overlays the background before seamlessly blending into it, creating a fluid and elegant effect. This dynamic approach enhances the bold, modern essence of the collaboration, merging high fashion with artistic innovation.
The Hidden Alchemy Society
For this project, I took charge of both art direction and web design, ensuring that every visual element connects seamlessly while preserving the essence of the brand´s identity. For the first time, I incorporated Kling to help craft certain visuals, I also curated a combination of fonts to deliver a striking visual experience, enhancing the impact and immersion for the user.
DTmF – Bad Bunny
This exploration was designed as an immersive web experience that brings the essence of DTmF to life. It features the album’s tracks, and the stories behind its visualizers, creating a space where users can fully engage with its narrative. To maintain authenticity, I carefully followed the album’s graphic identity, using its original typography and color palette. The DTmF art direction is truly stunning, perfectly capturing the album’s history, purpose, and deep connection to Puerto Rico’s culture. It serves as a visual gateway into the heart of the project, blending music, storytelling, and design into a seamless digital experience.
Archetype Studio
For this exploration I design a conceptual page for Archetype Studio, a global creative services and production company. This design explores how a brand like Archetype can showcase its bold vision and innovative storytelling through a seamless, modern layout. This project was a creative challenge and a rewarding exploration of what’s possible when bold ideas meet thoughtful design.
Maison Lumiére
For this project I experimented with clip-path scroll animations and how they can create unique, immersive user experiences. The goal? To push the boundaries of interactivity and bring a dynamic feel to the concept page of an advertising agency.
Background
My journey into digital design started on a completely different path—programming. While studying computer science, I took a web design and UI/UX course, and that was when I discovered my true passion. From that moment, I began designing websites while learning HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Over time, I realized I wanted to go beyond static, conventional websites and create digital experiences that truly stand out and make an impact. That’s when I shifted my focus to design, diving deep into self-learning and refining my craft.
As I recognized my potential, I designed and developed my digital portfolio to showcase my best work, which led me to win an Honorable Mention on Awwwards and become part of the Young Jury Panel. This year, as I embarked on my journey as an independent designer, I’ve had incredible experiences and opportunities that continue to inspire me to grow and improve every day.
Design Philosophy
For me, design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about impact. Every decision is guided by strategy, research, and brand purpose, using art direction to create something exceptional that reflects dedication and skill. As an independent designer, I continuously explore, learn new techniques, and push boundaries to create immersive experiences. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that consistency leads to results, and I’m committed to evolving, refining my craft, and producing work that truly resonates.
Tools and Techniques
My creative process starts with sketching on my iPad, where I lay the groundwork for my ideas before refining them in Figma. I also use Photoshop to enhance images, create compositions, and design custom illustrations that complement my work. For prototyping, Figma is my go-to tool for animations, though I occasionally use After Effects for more complex motion graphics.
I have to admit, ChatGPT has become a valuable asset in my workflow, helping me generate content for design explorations—it’s a tool I highly recommend for saving time on projects. Lately, I’ve been exploring Spline and Blender to push the boundaries of 3D design and elevate my interactive experiences even further.
Inspiration
I believe inspiration is everywhere, in the places I visit and the experiences I encounter. Every trip introduces me to fresh ideas, reminding me of the endless potential to elevate things artistically. When I step into a restaurant, I take in its design, style, and architecture, observing how branding creates a unique experience.
Music also plays a major role in my creative process. The art direction behind an artist’s project often inspires me, influencing how I approach my own work. Everything around us has the power to inspire, it’s just a matter of paying attention.
Goals
My goal as an independent designer is to keep learning and growing while collaborating with creatives, brands, and agencies to create standout digital experiences. I aspire to become an art director or creative director, gaining recognition for my work and creativity.
More than anything, I want to leave my mark on the industry, connect with other creatives, and help shape the future of digital design. I know my journey is just beginning—this is only the starting point. But I’m still young, and I’m fully focused on what I want to achieve.
Final Thoughts
My advice to anyone reading this: don’t let other people’s opinions hold you back. If something truly excites and drives you, make it a reality and turn it into your daily pursuit. Stay consistent with your goals because the road to success is never easy—it’s full of challenges, setbacks, and moments of doubt.
There will be good days and bad days, but don’t let them stop you from reaching your true destination. People won’t always see the sacrifices you’ve made, but that doesn’t mean they don’t matter. Surround yourself with those who genuinely support you, push you forward, and help you become the best version of yourself.
You are capable of achieving anything you set your mind to. Stay focused, stay persistent, and never give up. Wishing you success on your journey!