_Angela T.Ballinger – Public Portrait – @anotions

annotions portrait

Website: anotions.com
Twitter: @anotions

I had the notion in the mid-90s to teach myself the ways of the web, including HTML and bits of graphic design.  The WWW was so mysterious, and only a handful of my peers even had a computer in their homes.  I figured it would be worthwhile to learn a little bit about what the Internet was made of.

So, my curiosity led to the creation of my very own website filled with jokes and stupid stuff I found on the web.  All were written in basic HTML through Notepad, and graphics were courtesy of my pro Paintbrush skills.  Later, I discovered Paint Shop (a generic of PhotoShop) and became more interested in graphic design and layout techniques.  Then, I began creating websites for others, from a businessman friend of my dad’s to my boyfriend’s band.  I discovered that I had a knack for creating something that people needed.  I was hooked.

So that’s brought us into 2009, where I’m leisurely building my own business.  I’m currently focusing on brushing up on my skills and learning the many new technologies that have popped up in the last few years.  I have some ongoing clients, but am trying not to take on any new big jobs.  I do have a full time job, so any extra time is spent learning, social networking (love-love the Twitter design community), and exploring the web for inspiration.  I absolutely love design of all sorts, but that’s also my downfall.. “jack of all trades, master of none”.. but I can still try, right?

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Posted by ImJustCreative

5 Responses to “Angela T.Ballinger – Public Portrait – @anotions”

  1. Chris Hebert, on January 12, 09 Said:

    Angie,

    I can relate with your “About” information. I have always been ahead of my time as well (in the computer field). I won’t date myself, but let’s just say I was into computers long before they became a household item and long before anyone thought of having a laptop (let alone more than 1 in a family).

    I have dabbled in many career choices along the way, but all were 110% computer related.

    Sometimes when an individual has a gift, they find out in life that “certain things” come easily, and they become board with that gift. It isn’t until they realize how special their gift is, that they usually embrace it and move forward helping others by using it. Hence, I am a “Jack of All Trades” also.

    Great looking site!

    Chris
    http://www.webdazzling.com

  2. Emil Wisch, on January 12, 09 Said:

    “Jack of all trades, master of none”, has become my motto. But I’m more of a mini-Jack. I think learning a little about a lot makes for conversations with a lot more potential. It’s easier to relate and empathize with so many more people.

    I’ve become, what I like to call, a design groupie. I’ve been a telemarketer, shipping dock supervisor, car salesman, loan processor, cable guy and a business banker. I’ve gone to 3 different colleges, yet no bachelor’s degree.

    I began soaking myself in different media and looking for inspiration in design when I started a very small local biz directory with my developer pal. I found the pretty things were those that really got my heart pumping.

    With that, after 29 years, I believe I’ve found my passion. It wasn’t easy. I had always tried to be something I was not.

    So thank you Ms. Ballinger and all the other designers out there who contribute so much and get me all hot and bothered ;)

  3. Angela, on January 12, 09 Said:

    Thanks Graham for the inclusion in this very classy greyscale photo collection of designers! I’m honored to be a part of this awesome community. However, shouldn’t your very own image and bio be first? :)

    @Chris, thanks for your kind words and inspiration. I’ve finally realized that, even though design comes easily to me and I “see” things with ease, not everyone has that skill and people are willing to pay for that expertise (just like any other trade). But I feel bad charging, because I enjoy it so much! :) But I’d might as well make a living (or work my way toward it) doing what I love, right? :) Thanks!

  4. Angela, on January 12, 09 Said:

    @emil – I’ve been around the gamut with occupations as well, haha.. retail, airport security, banking, and office work.. not too shabby for my less than 10 year work history. I always knew I wanted to do design of some form or fashion, I just didn’t think I could cut it w/o a degree (I was in college w/ a full ride plus some, but withdrew due to family issues).

    But thanks for sharing your background and encouragement! I agree with being a mini-Jack.. I might just borrow that ;)

  5. Emil Wisch, on January 14, 09 Said:

    I don’t own those words. Go forth and do with mini-Jack as you wish :D

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