Graphic Design Teacher
New York

Justin Carey

Justin Carey is a designer and art director based in New York City. Justin founded Want Studio, an independent design house, in 2022. They have worked intimately and collaboratively with small and large brands across studio, in-house, agency, and contract projects. Additionally, Justin works as a producer of Atlas Publications, a new publication highlighting underserved voices.

What do you love about design?

Design shifts narratives, challenges future and existing conditions, and it’s the basis of our collective experience. Practicing design activates creativity and opportunity, which brings me so much joy. From solving important problems to making information and experiences beautiful and functional, I get a chance to share that joy with others.

Why do you teach?

I believe teaching is mutually beneficial. By leading a conversation in design, communal growth builds and this shared experience makes impactful and creative work, inspiring me to help inspire others.

Tell us about your design career outside of Shillington.

Before exploring design as a career I spent my time painting and drawing—constantly. I attended Maine College of Art in 2012. Their rigorous program required students to explore all facets of art over the first two years. I chose to major in Graphic Design the following two years because it provided a chance to funnel these developed skills into one field of work. During this time I interned for an art gallery and ad agency. Post graduation I juggled odd jobs while working part time at a design studio in Portland making logos and marketing materials. I had a rare opportunity to live in Wrocław, Poland where I attended design lectures, explored and freelanced. After that, I moved to NYC where I hustled full-time at design agencies while balancing contract work. Most of my work has been rooted in brand and visual identity design, and art direction. During COVID, I worked with a tele-health startup aiming to combat the increase in alcohol use disorders emerging during our collective global crises. This work consisted of brand evolution and product concepting. I’ve since gone independent and work from a shared studio in Brooklyn, building my own design studio and fostering new relationships with clients specifically in the LGBTQ+ community. Portfolio: Want Studio LinkedIn: justintylercarey

What or who are you loving right now?

Greta Thunberg, ‘Caps Lock’ by Ruben Pater, making fonts.

If you were a typeface, what would you be?

A variable typeface. I like lots of options and the ability to shape-shift.

What’s your favourite blog?

This is Paper.