Meet Daniel Aceves | Multimedia Artist & Supports Individuals With Developmental Disabilities

We had the good fortune of connecting with Daniel Aceves and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Daniel, what habits do you feel play an important role in your life?
As a person with an interest in multiple forms of media, whether it being graphic design related or illustrative work with a pen. I just couldn’t commit myself to completing things entirely. I felt frustrated with the lack of results I was getting while trying to multi-task too many thing’s all at once. This frustration led me to reflect on my current situation and reassess my objectives, discovering new methods and habits to help me obtain my goals. Ive realized that I needed to start better organizing myself and adjusting certain habits in various fields to prepare me for success. I encouraged habits that would help direct me to be consistent with my work flow and my goals. I starting to utilizing tools for accountability and time management that help with my long term growth.

For instance the background image on my cellphone has now become a block schedule calendar for me to reference to when I find myself getting a little off track. I also have been assigning myself projects that I find challenging and rewarding. These projects essentially serve not only my personal interest but also contribute to my expanding professional portfolio. For example I recently challenged myself with a business assignment by recreating an entire sports bar branding from logo to menus and even window graphics. With each challenge I cultivate my skills and fine tune the ones I have now, so by habitually referencing my block schedule and completing projects before their deadlines, I’m able to move forward feeling accomplished.

Although I have yet to achieve the level of success that I desire for myself in the future. I currently am working towards establishing a home based operation in the sign/graphic industry since my internship with a small local business was not fulfilling. This real world hands on experience had given me insight into the workings of entrepreneurship and the struggles along with it. it has also driven my need to expand my portfolio projects targeting local businesses with an opportunity in growing themselves and creating quality content for their needs. This is but a snip of the many habits that I found myself wanting to improving upon the most. During my self reflection I knew that I had weakness in certain areas.

Most apparent were my time management skills so I focused more on improving that aspect and the rest was a bit easier.
It is also important for ones success to admit ones shortcomings and strategize on how to make them work with you.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is constantly shifting from various forms, from sculptural work to digital design. What really excites me is the freedom of not conforming to one specific theme. I think what sets me apart is my relentless desire to master and nurture my style which emphasizes on conceptual and contemporary elements. As an undergraduate I found myself exploring different studio art courses that emphasized on screen printing, ceramics, package design, and sculptural forms of art. I’m most proud of the fact that I have not given up on my goals involving my passion for the arts. I will continue to learn and nurture my everlasting creativity. No matter what cultural social economic background you come from you can always achieve success if you stay dedicated and consist with your goals and plan.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
In the city of Ventura, you can find a little bit of something for everyone to enjoy from the Topa Topa mountains to the Pacific ocean. Seaside dining for those iconic California sunsets, or a simple cruise along highway 1 with your favorite people. Many local breweries are establish in the down town district along with fine choices of dining.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
As a second generation Mexican American, who has been allowed the privilege of an education and has overcome the many obstacles that target a minority like myself . I would like to dedicate this shoutout to the community that I come from and the community members who have helped guide me throughout my childhood into my adolescent years, even as an adult. This cross roads community that’s located at the beginning of Heritage Valley that rests along the Santa Clara River in Ventura County. Known as Saticoy, which is also a native Chumash word for “protected by the wind”. Miguel & Joshy this ones also for you.

Website: https://graphixbydaniel.myportfolio.com

Instagram: instagram.com/dannyearz