Ewa Pol - (self portrait)

Chances are you've seen artist Ewa Pol's work on various local billboards and storefronts. Her submission was the winner of the annual SUMMERFAIR poster contest, thus serving as the promotional image for this year's festival. Her strong line work and rich colors deliver an enthusiastic level of energy to her work. Check out five things that drive Ewa Pol.

Freelancing. It's exciting to work for yourself. I have been freelancing for 15 years with a variety of businesses, though my true love has always been designing books jackets.

Creating as both a designer and a fine artist. As a graphic designer and artist, I've worked on everything from business cards to illustrations. It's exciting to create an ad and realize that you have also created a stunning piece of art.

Loyality to yourself. I think it's always challenging to remain truly loyal to your convictions when doing commercial work. In commercial art, I know I cannot satisfy everyone's taste, and I would not want to. I always make sure that what I do is done well and is truly genuine.

Having a challenge. I enjoy working as a graphic designer/illustrator, because for me it's always been a challenge. As a designer/illustrator, you try to help your clients visualize and develop key ideas and concepts that reflect their needs.

Uniqueness. I believe that uniqueness is one of the most important things on both a professional and personal level. I strive to create unique, memorable and highly creative designs that reflect the individual needs of my clients.

ARTICULATIONS offers five things important to one of Cincinnati's visual artists. To be considered, contact Jacquelyn Vaugh, jvaughn@citybeat.com