Check Out Tytiana Steele’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tytiana Steele

Hi Tytiana, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My name is Tytiana “Ty” Steele, and I’m a multi-creative from Detroit, MI. My love of art and design has driven me to continually refine my craft. After receiving my BFA in Graphic Design from Eastern Michigan University in 2018, I entered the corporate world. I started as a Video Production Intern at DPTV, a Graphic Design Intern at Woodward Original, and then I had my “big break” into the film industry as an Art Department Assistant for the feature film Sextuplets with Marlon Wayans, produced by Wayans Alvarez Productions (2018), and the TV series Queen of the South Season 4 on USA Network and Netflix (2019). After returning to Detroit from filming Queen of the South in New Orleans for six months, I continued my film career as a Set Decorator and Production Designer for commercials, feature films, photography, and advertisement promos.

In 2020, I founded Versara Creatives LLC, a Black and Woman-owned creative agency, on February 16. It was built on inspiration—the “what ifs,” breaking traditional design styles, and the question of “What else can be done?” I started this company because I love inspiring brands and supporting clients’ ideas from concept to execution. Most of all, I wanted to increase creative film roles within Detroit for minorities. Over the past five years, Versara Creatives has provided digital, film, and art services to the advertising, marketing, and film industries. I’ve contributed to the creative process as a Brand Designer, Graphic Designer, Set Decorator, Set Dec Buyer, Set Dresser, Set Dec Coordinator, Art Director, Production Designer, Creative Strategist, Marketing Manager, Event Planner, Interior Decorator, Art Department Assistant, and Abstract Painter. I was able to travel across the U.S. doing what I love for film and provide jobs for those who wanted to break into the industry. Building a strong network was essential for my success, and every person I’ve met has become a valuable connection. Reflecting on my journey, I’m now eager to take the next step in my career as a Creative Director. I’m ready to leverage my diverse skillset and contribute to more art, design, and film projects.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but it’s been a fun one! Building a multi-faceted creative career, especially across different states, comes with its share of challenges. Early on, the constant travel was tough. Jumping from state to state meant covering my own housing and transportation, which significantly impacted profitability. The film industry’s inherent instability, with strikes and the uncertainty of landing the next gig, also presented hurdles. Balancing my passion for art and design with film work has been a constant juggling act. And, like many creatives, I’ve faced the challenge of clients not always valuing graphic design services. To address that, I’ve proactively created my own opportunities, organizing art events and exhibitions to showcase my work (Such as 28 – Silent Art Auction, of which we fundraised for a nonprofit called To Girls From Women), collaborate with other women-owned businesses, and connect with potential clients. It’s been a journey of resilience and resourcefulness, but these experiences – both the highs and the lows – have shaped me into the creative professional I am today.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
What sets me apart is my uniquely diverse and hands-on experience across virtually every facet of the art, design, and film production process. My path to becoming a Creative Director wasn’t traditional; I haven’t just managed creatives, I’ve been the graphic designer, the set decorator, the art director, the production designer, the marketing manager, even the art department assistant. This breadth of experience gives me an unparalleled understanding of every stage of a project, from initial concept to final execution. I see projects through a multitude of lenses, anticipating challenges and opportunities that someone with a more specialized background might miss. Because I’ve “been there” in so many roles, I can effectively communicate with and lead teams, fostering collaboration and maximizing creative potential. My experience founding and running Versara Creatives, a Black and Woman-owned creative agency, also demonstrates my entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to increasing representation within the creative industries. This combination of practical skills, diverse perspectives, and business acumen makes me a uniquely qualified and effective creative director.

Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
Art and design are my core passions, and they’ll always be at the heart of my work. Currently, I provide Brand Design, Graphic Design, and Production Design services. Moving into a creative director role is a natural evolution of this passion, allowing me to expand my influence and bring my artistic vision to a wider range of projects. I’m excited to guide and inspire teams, having a greater impact on the final product. This transition coincides with a significant milestone: the 5th anniversary of Versara Creatives! It feels like the perfect time to embark on this next chapter, and I’m thrilled to announce that I will be available to offer Creative Director services starting February 16, 2025.

Pricing:

• Creative Consulting Services $100/hr
• Brand Design Services Starting at $800
• Web Design and Management Services Starting at $1000
• Social Media Management Services Starting at $850
• Art Department & Set Decoration: Please inquire for pricing.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.versaracreatives.com/
• Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/versara.creatives
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tytianasteele/
• Other: https://www.imdb.me/tytianasteele