YG15 Showcase: Ricardo Gonzalez

Shining the spotlight on this year's Young Guns winners

Young Guns 15, arguably the most prestigious portfolio-based competition for creatives under 30, is going out with a bang! This year's winners were unveiled last week, and it's safe to say that this is one of the most eclectically talented classes in Young Guns history. 

Next week is the traditional Young Guns ceremony and party, (you've scored your tickets, right?) and nearly all of this year's winners will be travelling from across the globe, across the country, or across the Williamsburg Bridge to attend. Ahead of the festivities, the One Club for Creativity is highlighting many of the winners you'll be able to meet.

RICARDO GONZALEZ
Letterer + Typographer
Based In: Brooklyn, NY
Originally from: Durango, Mexico
itsaliving.nyc

SEE RICARDO'S YG15 PROFILE + WORK

What does winning this award mean to you?

To me, winning Young Guns 15 is a very special award, It’s been on my horizon ever since I moved to New York three years ago. To use 30 as a deadline to get to a certain professional level is a good personal challenge, and to achieve this award is a sign of hard work and consistency.

"To me, winning Young Guns 15 is a very special award... to use 30 as a deadline to get to a certain professional level is a good personal challenge, and to achieve this award is a sign of hard work and consistency."

What sorts of challenges have you encountered to get where you are today?

It’s been quite a journey. When I left my hometown almost ten years ago I just wanted to become a graphic designer and learn a second language. But when I moved out to New York I understood it was possible to do what you love for a living. It hasn’t been easy, but I’ve been very lucky to have the support and inspiration of my family and friends. Without them I wouldn’t be where I am at today.

Since Young Guns 15 allowed you to submit six projects for consideration, some self-curation was required. How did you decide what to enter?

This year I focused on selecting meaningful work, not just for me but work that creates a positive message that has impact in society.

Can you name any past Young Guns winners who you look up to?

The list is very long but top of my head, there’s Stefan Sagmeister (YG1), Alex Trochut (YG6), James Victore (YG1), Juan Carlos Pagan (YG11), Jessica Hische (YG7), Jon Contino (YG9), Rich Tu (YG8), Shane Griffin (YG10) and many, many  more.

Now that you’re a Young Guns winner, what’s next?

Keep on living!

Ricardo and his fellow winners will be honored at the Young Guns 15 Ceremony + Party, taking place on Thursday, November 16 at Highline Stages in Manhattan's Meatpacking District. 

Young Guns 15 is presented in proud partnership with Shutterstock, Levene/Leavitt and MTV.

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