Cipe Pineles was a trailblazer in graphic design, known for her playful, layered style in magazines like Seventeen and Charm. She was one of the first women to make a mark in the industry, and her work feels like a mix of a scrapbook and a visual diary. I connect with her use of collage because it’s all about mixing and matching different pieces to tell a story. Which Ive applied to doing in my own art.

In the piece I shared, you can see how I use the same collage approach. The mosaic portrait in the center is a mix of tiny pieces that come together to form a face, much like how Pineles combined illustrations and photos to create a narrative. Around the portrait, I added elements like sunflowers (inspired by Van Gogh) and pop culture references like a Game Boy, reflecting parts of my personality and influences.

I’m drawn to her way of blending different eras and styles, just like I did by mixing classical art references with modern icons. It’s a way of connecting the past and present, making something that feels personal and unique. For me, this kind of collage work is about embracing the chaos and imperfections, just as life itself.

Cipe Pineles was a pioneering art director and designer who left a significant mark on editorial design during the mid-20th century which inspired many to one day do the same.

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