Author: Shala Designs

Painter, photographer, graphic designer and mom (not necessarily in that order), I bring 25 years of experience in graphic design to your freelance projects. Until the sudden passing of my younger brother, Alan, I created paintings and collages in secret, but never had the courage to call myself an ‘artist’. Since then I've played with many medias, including pastels, pen and ink, photography, origami boxes and watercolors.

Marketing & Branding

I ensure consistent brand identity through cohesive marketing materials and website design.

Lied Center Brochure Examples

I was the graphic designer at the Lied Center for more than 10 years. I created visuals for the electronic sign, social media visuals, ads, banners, mailers and brochures. But honestly, the brochures were my favorite because I could get creative and showcase each new season.

Book Design

Book design, from layout to image placement, is very satisfying for me, including the cover of “KU-phoria”.

Digital Layout

Expert digital and print design ensure clear messaging across all platforms, adapting for various formats and media.

KU Hall Center for the Humanites

Before the Hall Center hired an in-house graphic designer, I created newsletters, ads, postcards, and annual reports for them from 2009 to 2014. I’ve also done freelance work for the KU School of Music, Natural History and Biodiversity Center, The Commons, and other clients.

Video Production

Full-cycle video production, including the “Beyond the Stage” documentary series for the Lied Center.

Digital Editing

I created these images using digital layers and filters in Photoshop.

Logo Creation

The best logo design looks very simple, but provides a meaningful, versatile mark to represents your brand identity effectively.

Web Development

I enhance WordPress user experience through intuitive design, personalized visuals, and optimized website structure.

Arlington National Cemetery: Shrine to America’s Heroes

by James Edward Peters Added 25th anniversary edition updates: Arlington National Cemetery is America’s most treasured national burial ground, steeped in history and the site of many of our most solemn national memories. Much has transpired for America in the last several years since the definitive guide, Arlington National Cemetery: Shrine to America’s Heroes was published….

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Watkins & Miller Halls

by Norma Hoagland Elizabeth Miller Watkins was the greatest benefactress of the University of Kansas. Her innovative vision for a women’s scholarship hall was the first of its kind in the nation. Watkins Hall, built in 1926, and its twin Miller Hall, in 1937, are striking examples of architecture influencing behavior. Elizabeth’s letters show how she…

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Embattled Lawrence: Conflict & Community

I designed and laid-out this book while working with Barbara Watkins. It book explores Lawrence’s association with the Kaw River, John Brown, Quantrill’s raid, the University of Kansas, Haskell Institute, Langston Hughes, James Naismith, historic preservation, and Liberty Hall.