I’m Jan-Maxwell Johnson, a Cincinnati-based African American Visual Designer with a passion for blending bold ideas with purposeful design. My journey started at a young age with a love for art—something that naturally evolved into a deep commitment to visual storytelling and design innovation.
I’ve worked with R+L Carriers and Northern Kentucky University’s Marketing & Communications Department, where I contributed to a range of print and digital design projects supporting campus-wide initiatives. From brand development to layout design, my focus has always been on creating thoughtful, lasting visual experiences.
Originally drawn to industrial design, I studied at Cincinnati State College (A.A.S.) and later at the College for Creative Studies in Detroit to pursue Transportation Design. While my early dreams centered around designing cars, my path led me to visual design—where I’ve spent over 12 years crafting branding and logos for churches and small businesses. Many of these visual identities are still in use today, which speaks to my drive for creating timeless design work.
I bring a sharp, creative eye, a bold mind, and a deep respect for originality to every project. Whether I'm designing a logo, building a brand, or exploring new design systems, my goal is simple: make your visuals stand out and tell a story worth remembering.
artist statement
My artistic vision aims to break free from conventional design norms and push the boundaries of creativity. 
I strive to create something radically distinctive, transcending societal expectations and redefining the purpose of design. I aim to shatter limitations, develop innovative mediums, and inspire future designers to follow a similar path of exploration and originality. 
In my work, I seek to reflect and extend aspects of what I deeply admire, crafting designs that resonate with individuality and meaning. Each creation becomes an extension of my identity, serving as more than just a design—it becomes a narrative of purpose and expression.
Visual communication design is the cornerstone of my professional identity, a unique signature that defines my approach. Abstraction often serves as my primary technique, enabling me to convey powerful messages through my work. This methodology allows me to communicate ideas that provoke thought, evoke emotion, and spark inspiration.
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