Rafael is a Design graduate student from Brazil. He works as a graphic designer for SAMC, creating visual communication, logos and digital and printed media. As a multidisciplinary designer and photographer, Rafael achieved significant success working with big brands such as Heinz, Monster and Budweiser, as well as with various celebrities in Brazil. His Bachelor’s degree is in Industrial and Graphic Design, and he has a Master of Arts degree in Material Culture and Textile Studies from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He received a Provost’s First-Year Fellowship in the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences to pursue his second Master’s degree, this time at UC Davis. You can find more of his work by visiting: https://brtcn.co.

In his free time, Rafael loves spending time with his family, dog and friends. He also enjoys working on handcrafts, furniture refinishing and studying astrology (he is a Capricorn, by the way).

Describe your musical taste.

It is more diverse and random than a playlist made by a cat walking on a keyboard. It swings from Brazilian funk to pop hits, then drifts into indie and folk. For example, I love listening to Miley Cyrus, Vance Joy and Anitta with the same intensity.

Do you have a favorite quote?

One of my favorite quotes, from Michel Foucault, was also part of my M.A. exhibition: “If you knew when you began a book what you would say at the end, do you think that you would have the courage to write it?”