WELCOME TO MY PORTFOLIO!


HOME
ABOUT
CONTACT


Projects: ❶ Juke Box ❷ Paloma ❸ Gothiks, Rounded Out ❹ Casa Estrella ❺ FFTA ❻ Pipe Dream ❼ Mapped Out ❽ Indigo Horizons











@alexavaladez

❽ Indigo Horizons


Dates: December 2024
Role: Editorial Design, Layout Design, Typography, Art Direction
Tools: Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop


Overview

Indigo Horizons is a book project that explores the rich history, cultural significance, and global impact of indigo dye. Created for my ARTS 468 course, the book investigates how this seemingly simple pigment holds complex historical ties—from ancient trade routes to modern textile practices.

This project challenged me to translate research-heavy content into a visually engaging experience. My focus was on balancing simplicity with playfulness—experimenting with grid systems, typography, and image placement to keep the content approachable while honoring the subject’s depth.


Design Approach

  • Developed a clean, structured layout system with intentional use of negative space and flexible grids
  • Used color grading and thoughtful image placement to reflect the beauty and variation of indigo dye throughout history
  • Balanced text and visuals to create rhythm and flow, allowing historical information to feel digestible and visually engaging
  • Focused on typography and composition to guide the reader’s experience while highlighting key moments of storytelling
  • Approached the design as both educational and expressive, using modern layouts to support traditional subject matter



    • Outcome

    This project pushed me to think critically about how design choices—spacing, hierarchy, color, and pacing—shape the way information is received. Indigo Horizons became not only a study of indigo dye but also an exploration of how thoughtful editorial design can enhance storytelling and invite curiosity.