Meet second-year student, Liza Borissova (IDEA Grad 2025)! Her self-portrait for IDES 133 - Visual Studio taught by Jay Bassan is shown above.

Read Liza’s story and check out some of her other work for a glimpse into student life at IDEA School of Design at Capilano University.

Self-portrait

The self-portrait is like a place where you try to show what is hidden inside with visual elements and emotions. With the use of various colours and shades in this photo, I wanted to show versatility and movement, but at the same time leave the emphasis on the eyes.

The creation process was enjoyable! I ended up completely covered in glitter, glue, hairspray, and water. For lighting, I used glasses filled with water and various lighting sources, from a flashlight on my phone to a coloured stone taped to my iPad. This assignment returned my interest in photography while helping me better understand myself by answering identity questions related to my move from Kazakhstan to Canada in the first semester.

“The Assignment” by Jay Bassan, Instructor

Create a mood board visualizing your Passion, Super Power, Values, Purpose and differentiation (students can use any medium for this).

“The Goal” by Jay Bassan, Instructor

To have students think clearly about how to imagine themselves as a brand and use their final self-portrait as an expression of that. This becomes one of the more interesting projects since it happens near the end of class and students are now comfortable enough with the camera.

I remind students that similar to sketching, where you decide where to put the pencil, pen, or mouse to compose your drawing, where do you put the camera to capture a moment or tell a story?

I get some interesting work.

Experience so far at IDEA School of Design

The first year was a discovery for me. I never would have thought that I could be so passionate and excited about classes and assignments. I have often caught myself thinking that I am insanely happy and grateful to be here. I wish everyone to feel the acceptance and support from professors and classmates that I experience every day. 

Also, I consider myself a pretty shy and introverted person, so I was worried about what it would be like to study in a different language. Small classes of 23 people in a studio space helped me to learn how to organically build professional relationships with classmates and instructors. I learned how to give constructive feedback and not be afraid to ask questions. Everyone is very understanding and supportive, so it wasn’t that hard. It is also enjoyable to grow and learn from the skills and past experiences of other talented people in the cohort.

Featured Work

Unknown guy from Lonsdale

We were assigned to show different types of compositions in photography class. Walking around Lonsdale, I took a lot of photos and was about to go home, but suddenly I noticed something: I saw a guy I didn't know enjoying the view of Vancouver during sunset, and the moon was right above him. It only took a second, but I immediately realized that I needed to capture it. This photo is still one of my favourites because of its backstory and atmosphere.

Sirotkin / Сироткин Swissted Poster

This Swissted poster was the first assignment for IDES 142 Survey & Principles of Design II. For me, this project became the starting point for exploring apps like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Before entering the university, I used only traditional mediums, so it was new for me. I made a Swissted poster for my favourite Russian band “Sirotkin” (Сироткин). I wanted to convey calmness and melancholy using lilac shades, rounded geometric shapes, and red accents to help express strong emotions.

This is one of my most favourite songs. The artist “Sirotkin” (Сироткин) said that this song is for turning points in life when there is nothing to rely on.

Interior Perspective Drawing

Creating Interior Perspective Drawing was a task for Survey & Principles of Illustration. This project required a lot of patience and perseverance, as it was necessary to copy the room's interior using coal accurately. I spent many days completing this drawing, but I was happy with the result.

Why did you choose IDEA School of Design over other schools?

After graduating from high school in Astana in 2020, I applied to the University of Alberta and SFU for computer science. But unfortunately, it was not my decision. And a week before the beginning of my studies, I decided to leave the computer science program and choose the path on my own — the path that will be true only to me. It was as if I suddenly woke up. So I discovered the world of creative programs.

As a result, I got into four universities. The question of choosing a university did not stand for a long time. Again, trusting my feelings and intuition, I chose the IDEA School of Design’s Bachelor of Design program. I also put the most effort into entering this university, which includes preparing a portfolio, an interview, and an entrance exam. And I have never regretted this choice! The program feels like a cozy creative house whose members will always support and guide you on the right path.

Advice for those considering applying to IDEA School of Design

I think it is essential to show your strengths, a variety of skills, and, first of all, how you think and what kind of person you are. Be confident not only in your work but also in yourself.

"Breakthrough Moments" at IDEA School of Design

After completing several projects in the first semester, I realized “I am a perfectionist with impostor syndrome.” And this, no matter how obvious it is, hinders life and development. I could make a lot of progress after creating ten versions of the same project, but I have absolutely no power to do the following tasks. And this realization has led to the gradual formation of a healthy attitude to my work, where I am aware of my strengths and allow my projects to be less than ideal.

What's your favourite music video?

I honestly thought for a long time about which music video to choose since I have a considerable number of favourite songs and music videos. But eventually, I decided to stop at a song that I associate with my move from Kazakhstan to Canada.

Noize MC, Therr Maitz 一 Вояджер-1 (LAB с Антоном Беляевым)