Hello!
My name is Marhin Chismar. I have a deep passion for art, design, and writing. I love Jesus and my family more than anything.
​
"Marhin" is Gaelic for "of the sea", and my name has always had a large influence on who I am. Just like the ocean is constantly inspiring waves of transformation, who I am is driven by the desire to create something as beautiful, as calming, and as powerful as the sea.
​
The desire for perfection and need for good craftsmanship inspire my every action, especially my work.
Creative Statement
Design is a form of art. Good design is concise, engaging, and artistic; it inspires deeper thinking and genuine connection.
​
I find inspiration in the work of Alphonse Mucha and Theophile-Alexandre Steinlen for their delicately intense linework and uniquely crafted letterforms. I admire Alexey Brodovitch’s editorial designs, specifically how he activates negative space and exhibits intense contrast. These designers create work that is elegant, well-crafted, and unapologetically bold. My own work is informed by extreme contrast and intentionally activated negative space, along with photographic imagery, refined typography, and elegant elements of line.
​
Typography is a foundational aspect of my design process; the minute detail of a
typeface impacts the entire design. Photos bring an emotional depth to designs
that graphics cannot; even if I do not include photos in my designs, I use them as
sources of inspiration. Most of the photos that I use have an artistic quality and many incorporate a piece of traditional art into my work. I use photographs to unite my love of fine art with my love of digital design, and I collect and craft many images to illustrate a story. Ultimately, no matter what I design, the finished product must have a harmonious composition of impeccable quality. My work exhibits a high standard and good craftsmanship, which forms the framework of the final results.
​
My goal is to create for an audience that appreciates the place of art and expression in design, and I intend to create designs that inspire deeper thinking and evoke meaningful connection. I intend for communities to be impacted by my designs in a long-lasting, timeless way.