Meet Rhea Hinger | Graphic designer

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

Hi Rhea, is there a quote or affirmation that’s meaningful to you?
“A jack of all trades is a master of none, but is often better than a master of one.”

It might not resonate with everyone, but it’s something I’ve really come to relate to through my own journey. A lot of people see graphic design as a role with clearly defined boundaries—design the visuals, hand them off, and that’s it. But I’ve never seen it that way. I’ve always felt more like a creative problem-solver than just a “designer.” I enjoy getting into the weeds with different tools, trying out new techniques, and figuring out how to bring a vision to life—whether that means jumping into video editing, experimenting with motion graphics, or learning a new software on the fly.

That adaptability has been crucial for me, especially with how unpredictable the job market has become. Roles are evolving fast, expectations are shifting, and with AI and automation reshaping the creative space, I think the best thing we can do is keep a growth mindset. It’s not just about mastering one thing anymore—it’s about being open to learning, staying curious, and being willing to stretch your skill set across disciplines.

At Clutch Creative, I’ve had the chance to do exactly that. From working on murals and car wraps to pushing brand boundaries across digital and print, I’ve been able to explore, test, and deliver creative solutions that go beyond the traditional designer role. I love being hands-on and figuring things out as I go. It keeps the work exciting, and more importantly, it makes me feel equipped to handle whatever comes next in this ever-changing industry.

So yeah, being a jack of all trades? For me, it’s been a strength. It’s kept me relevant, inspired, and constantly growing.

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 journey into design wasn’t straightforward—it was a happy accident. Growing up in India, I was part of a traditional schooling system where design was often confused with artistic skill. Since I wasn’t great at sketching or painting, I ruled it out entirely. So I went to business school, thinking that was the “practical” path.

But even there, my creativity kept surfacing. I found myself communicating ideas through visuals—collaging, mapping, designing presentations in ways that felt more like storytelling than strategy. That’s when I realized design wasn’t just about how things look, but how we think and solve problems.

Today, I work as a designer at Clutch Creative, a female-led design agency where no two days are the same. While branding is my main focus, I get to dabble in everything from websites and packaging to murals and magazines. What sets me apart is that I’m a concept-driven designer with a soft spot for giving brands personality and charm. I love when a brand feels like a person—with character, quirks, and a story worth telling.

We’ve helped businesses of all sizes build identities that aren’t just visually strong, but emotionally resonant. Because for me, design isn’t just about logos or color palettes—it’s about crafting a voice and bringing a brand to life in a way that sticks. And yes, I try to add a little fun to the process too.

Getting here wasn’t easy. I had to unlearn a lot of what I was taught about creativity and success. But I’ve learned that design is as much about curiosity, empathy, and storytelling as it is about tools or trends. It’s the ability to think visually, make meaning from chaos, and connect with people in subtle, powerful ways.

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.
I’ve been living in the Dallas area for over a year and a half now, and I’ve completely fallen for the city. If my best friend were visiting, I’d make sure they got the full Dallas experience—starting with tacos and frozen margaritas at Las Palmas, obviously. We’d grab coffee at Funny Library (because you can’t beat that vibe), and spend our evenings hanging out at my apartment, snacking and soaking in the incredible Dallas skyline from my view.

We’d definitely spend time outdoors—walking and plane-watching at Bachman Lake is one of my favorite low-key activities, and White Rock Lake is perfect if we’re feeling a little more active. For foodies, there’s no shortage of amazing eats: brunch at Bread Winners, dessert at Emporium Pies, rooftop cocktails at HG Sply Co., and a stroll through the Bishop Arts District for art, music, and people-watching. I’d also make time for local gems like the Dallas Farmers Market and maybe a night out at The Rustic or catching a live show.

Dallas has this cool mix of culture, food, and unexpected charm. Whether you’re into art, nature, coffee, or just good vibes, there’s always something to explore. And honestly, sharing those little everyday spots that make the city feel like home is what makes a visit here special.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
If I had to dedicate my shoutout to anyone, it would be to my alma mater—Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA). MICA played a huge role in shaping who I am today, not just as a designer but as a creative thinker. It taught me to see design as a mindset, encouraged exploration across disciplines, and gave me the confidence to take creative risks.

Thank you, MICA, for the lessons, the late nights, and the space to grow. You’ll always be a big part of my journey.

Website: https://www.rheahinger.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rhea.hinger

Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/rhea-hinger-14145a19a

Image Credits
– Clutch Creative Marketing