Meet Kyla Seguiban: Glitching Reality and Redefining Design
Meet third-year student, Kyla Seguiban (IDEA BDes Grad 2026)! Her first-year self-portrait for IDES 133 - Visual Studio taught by Jay Bassan is shown above.
Kyla's artistic journey is a captivating dance between reality and imagination, beautifully embodied in her striking self-portrait "Glitching Reality." Inspired by her lucid dreams and fueled by a passion for branding, she's transforming from illustrator to design strategist at IDEA School of Design. Through packaging that tells stories and designs that forge emotional connections, Kyla blends technical skill with visionary thinking—all while drawing inspiration from photography, cooking, and life's unexpected beauty.
“My transition from illustration to branding stemmed from my passion for packaging and memorable brand experiences. This wasn’t just a career shift—it was a revelation.”
Read Kyla’s story and check out some of her other work for a glimpse into student life at IDEA School of Design at Capilano University.
Introduction
“Glitching Reality” Black and White Self-Portrait
My process for creating this portrait is fairly straightforward, yet it incorporates an artistic twist for a unique touch. I began by using Photoshop to achieve the desired glitchy, grainy effect, giving the portrait a distinctive texture and visual interest. Once satisfied with the result, I exported the final image and imported it into Procreate. There, I added unusual characters, further enhancing the portrait’s quirky and creative vibe. By combining these tools and techniques, I blended digital manipulation with hand-drawn elements, resulting in a piece that is both visually striking and deeply personal.
Self-portrait moodboard
About the course
IDES 133 Visual Studio provides an introduction to line, form, and light through an exploration of drawing and photography. Students develop skills in the use of drawing tools and a digital SLR (single lens reflex) camera. Principles of perception, observation, proportion, and perspective are covered through drawing and photography of man-made and natural objects, including the human figure.
The Meaning Behind “Glitching Reality”
“Glitching Reality” is deeply tied to my frequent lucid dreams, which occur almost weekly. These experiences inspired me to create a self-portrait with a glitch-like aesthetic—symbolizing the duality between dream and reality. The fragmented colours represent the division of my soul, while the distortion reflects my "weirdness" as an imaginative person confined by reality’s structures.
Lucid dreaming has profoundly shaped my art, blurring the lines between consciousness and the subconscious. The glitch effect acts as a visual metaphor for dreams’ fluidity and unpredictability, contrasting sharply with reality’s rigidity. The colour fragmentation not only mirrors my soul’s multifaceted nature but also underscores the complexity of my inner world. Ultimately, this piece embodies my creative identity: a constant negotiation between imagination and the tangible world.
“The glitch effect acts as a visual metaphor for dreams’ fluidity and unpredictability, contrasting sharply with reality’s rigidity.”
Featured Work
Apple Annual Report
This project involves designing a community case report with data or an annual report for a company. As students, we get to choose which company we want to design an annual or quarterly report for.
Course: IDES 243 Design Studio I
Instructor: Vida Jurcic
About the course
IDES 243 Design Studio I introduces students to the fields of communication design, information design, and advertising, and to the role of design in business and marketing. Students understand the design process by analyzing design problems, working through creative briefs, creating appropriate design solutions, and developing rationales. Instruction in design-related software supports the course.
Emotional Portrait Set
This project focuses on creating a portrait of a chosen person using specific lighting and expressive features. It can be done either digitally or through tactile methods.
Course: IDES 235 Illustration Studio I
Instructor: Shayne Letaine
About the course
IDES 235 Illustration Studio I introduces students to illustration as visual communication. Students learn the process of completing an illustration project through concept, sketches, client approval, and finished work, and begin to develop style and voice. Skills are developed using various mediums and techniques including contemporary painting and life drawing.
Tipsy Granny Apple Cider Beverage Packaging
This project entails designing beverage packaging for a student-selected company, allowing for full creative freedom in the packaging design.
Course: IDES 243 Design Studio I
Instructor: Vida Jurcic
About the course
IDES 243 Design Studio I introduces students to the fields of communication design, information design, and advertising, and to the role of design in business and marketing. Students understand the design process by analyzing design problems, working through creative briefs, creating appropriate design solutions, and developing rationales. Instruction in design-related software supports the course.
Experience so far at IDEA School of Design
My time at Capilano University’s IDEA School of Design, where I’m pursuing a four-year Bachelor of Design in Visual Communication, has been incredibly rewarding. The program has provided me with valuable insights into the business side of art—teaching me how to effectively market and sell my work, as well as how to brand myself as an artist.
Beyond the commercial aspects, IDEA has expanded my technical skills, introducing me to new techniques and encouraging innovative, outside-the-box thinking in design. The supportive environment and the instructors’ wealth of knowledge have been instrumental in my growth, pushing me to explore new creative avenues and refine my artistic vision.
Overall, IDEA has not only sharpened my artistic abilities but also equipped me with the tools to thrive in the competitive world of art and design.
How have your personal experiences shaped your approach to design and branding? Could you share any specific moments at IDEA School of Design that made you rethink your artistic vision?
Before joining the IDEA School of Design, I had spent my life working as an illustrator. My perspective began to shift when I took the Design Thinking course with Carol Aitken, an incredible instructor who expanded my understanding of design. Through creating logos and participating in morning discussions about what it means to be a design student, she opened my eyes to new possibilities.
Another pivotal moment came with my design courses under Vida Jurcic. Her inspiring teaching style encouraged me to approach branding and design with greater intentionality and creativity. Vida’s mentorship challenged me to refine my work and consider the deeper impact of my designs.
These experiences have been transformative, sparking a passion for design that extends far beyond illustration. They’ve taught me to see design as a powerful tool for communication and expression, fundamentally shaping both my creative process and my identity as a designer.
What are the most valuable lessons you’ve learned so far about the business side of art and design? How do you see these lessons shaping your career trajectory?
The business side of art and design has taught me invaluable lessons that continue to shape my career. Most importantly, I've learned the critical role of understanding both market trends and audience needs. This knowledge enables me to create work that resonates deeply and delivers genuine value.
A second fundamental lesson has been the transformative power of branding and storytelling. Developing a strong visual identity paired with compelling narratives helps work stand out in competitive markets. It's not just about aesthetic appeal - it's about forging emotional connections that endure.
Equally vital has been mastering the art of professional relationships. Through networking, mentorship, and collaboration, I've discovered how community engagement creates opportunities and accelerates growth. These connections have become invaluable assets in my creative practice.
On the practical side, I've developed essential skills in financial literacy and project management. From budgeting to pricing strategies and time management, these competencies ensure my projects remain both creatively fulfilling and commercially viable.
Together, these lessons have brought clarity and intention to my career path. They've helped me balance creative vision with strategic thinking, allowing me to approach each project with purpose. As I evolve as a designer, I'm committed to producing work that satisfies artistic ambitions while serving market needs and enriching our creative ecosystem.
Ultimately, these experiences have reaffirmed that great design transcends aesthetics. It's about crafting meaningful experiences, solving real problems, and making measurable impacts. This comprehensive understanding of design's business dimension continues to inspire my pursuit of excellence in every undertaking.
“I’ve learned that great design transcends aesthetics—it’s about crafting meaningful experiences, solving real problems, and making measurable impacts.”
Highlights from 1st year at IDEA School of Design
Beginning university at 24 marked a profound personal milestone—one filled with equal parts excitement and nervous anticipation. What I discovered was an unexpectedly rewarding journey of connection and belonging. Meeting passionate peers who shared my creative interests provided both comfort and inspiration. These relationships transformed my experience from mere academic pursuit to one of deep personal growth and meaningful camaraderie.
What was the most challenging or rewarding aspect of your first year at university? How did your perspective on education and growth evolve during that time?
My first year presented unique challenges as an older student among recent high school graduates. While I occasionally felt isolated, I remained grateful for my classmates' warmth and inclusivity. The greatest reward came simply from returning to education after a four-year break—a courageous decision to pursue my true passion.
My life partner (also in IDEA School of Design) became my rock during this transition. His constant encouragement and belief in my abilities gave me strength to persist through the program's demands. His support proved invaluable in maintaining my confidence and commitment.
This journey has reshaped my understanding of education and growth. I've learned that age and background matter far less than determination and having the right support system. My experience stands as proof that with resilience and encouragement, it's never too late to chase your dreams and find where you belong.
Highlights from Second Year at IDEA School of Design
My journey at IDEA School of Design has been profoundly transformative, particularly in branding and design. The depth of learning has opened my eyes to the intricate nuances of creating compelling brand identities and innovative designs. Each lesson has served as a stepping stone, pushing me to think more creatively and strategically. Beyond academics, meeting wonderful industry professionals has been an emotional highlight. Their wisdom, encouragement, and real-world insights have not only inspired me but also instilled confidence and excitement about my future. These connections have enriched my education, blending academic growth with invaluable professional mentorship.
In what ways have the industry professionals you’ve met impacted your artistic practice or career goals? Can you share any advice or insights they've given you that stood out?
The instructors themselves—all remarkable industry professionals—have significantly impacted my journey. One piece of advice that particularly resonated was: "Never let your doubts get to you, and always ask for help when needed." This has become my guiding light, helping me trust my artistic abilities more deeply.
Their wisdom and support proved invaluable as I navigated the program's complexities and grew as a designer. Their dedication to craft and generous knowledge-sharing inspired me to push boundaries and pursue excellence. Most importantly, they gave me the confidence to embrace my creativity while recognizing when to seek guidance.
This transformative journey has taught me about resilience and community. My instructors' mentorship enhanced both my skills and perspective, showing how growth comes from overcoming doubts and leaning on support. Their impact demonstrates the profound value of encouragement in artistic and personal development.
What are you looking forward to in 3rd and 4th year?
I'm excited to dive into new courses that will expand my skills and offer fresh industry perspectives. The chance to work with mentors who can elevate my learning to new heights particularly thrills me. Their expertise will prove invaluable as I tackle more complex design challenges.
I'm especially determined to secure an industry internship that will provide hands-on experience and deeper insight into real-world applications. This powerful combination of advanced coursework and practical experience will shape my professional journey and prepare me for future success.
Looking ahead, what specific goals do you have for the next year at IDEA, both in terms of skills and personal growth? How do you plan to apply what you've learned to real-world projects?
Looking ahead to my next year at IDEA School of Design, I have set ambitious yet inspiring goals for both skill development and personal growth. I aim to refine my technical abilities to achieve greater proficiency while pushing my creative boundaries through innovative design approaches. Beyond mastering tools and techniques, I want to expand my artistic perspective across different mediums and styles to become a more versatile designer.
On a personal level, I plan to actively seek guidance from instructors and mentors whose transformative insights have already shaped my journey. Building stronger relationships with peers through collaborative projects remains a priority, as does developing resilience when facing creative challenges. These connections will be crucial as I navigate more complex design problems and push myself beyond my comfort zone.
I'm particularly excited to apply these growing competencies to real-world projects, whether in branding, packaging, or digital design. My approach will focus on creating work that not only meets client needs but also forms meaningful connections with audiences. Each project will be an opportunity to implement classroom learning while developing my professional judgment and problem-solving skills.
Ultimately, I want my designs to make a measurable impact—helping brands succeed while enriching people's experiences. This coming year, I'm committed to continuous learning, fearless experimentation, and pursuing excellence in every project. Through this process, I know I'll grow both as a designer and as an individual, building the foundation for a fulfilling creative career.
What is your concentration for third year and why did you pick this concentration?
I've chosen the multidisciplinary concentration for my third year because I crave boundless creative exploration. I want to immerse myself in every facet of art and design, weaving together diverse perspectives to fundamentally transform how I think and create.
This path allows me to challenge conventions by discovering unexpected connections between disciplines. I believe true innovation lives where curiosity meets mastery—where graphic design converses with illustration, branding intersects with photography, and theory informs practice.
Art isn't just technical skill to me—it's a visual language, a philosophy, and a way of seeing the world. Through this multidisciplinary journey, I'll develop a deeper understanding of how ideas merge and how creative elements interact dynamically.
This concentration represents my commitment to growing as a complete creative—a designer who can think like an artist, an artist who understands strategy, and a perpetual learner who thrives at the intersection of disciplines. I want my education to have no artificial boundaries, only endless possibilities for evolution.
Choosing IDEA & Advice for Applicants
Why did you choose IDEA School of Design over other schools?
I chose IDEA School of Design because it offers unparalleled opportunities tailored for artists like myself. Beyond teaching how to create beautiful images or aesthetic layouts, IDEA provides a comprehensive education that expands your understanding of art and design's role in the world. The program fosters critical and creative thinking, constantly pushing the boundaries of skills and imagination. The instructors are exceptionally supportive and inspiring, always encouraging me to step outside my comfort zone. Their guidance has been invaluable for my growth as both an artist and professional, making IDEA a truly transformative experience.
About IDEA School of Design at Capilano University
IDEA School of Design offers two career-oriented programs for the next generation of creative professionals.
The Bachelor Of Design In Visual Communication is a four-year undergraduate degree with a variety of career outcomes in the creative field. Students can specialize in branding, Illustration or interactive design in upper years.
The Interaction Design Diploma is a two-year program with career outcomes in the field of digital product design and user experience. The focus is on creativity, design thinking, and problem-solving.
“The purpose of your portfolio is to demonstrate your creative potential. We assess portfolios on drawing skill, design and creativity.”
Advice for those considering applying to IDEA School of Design
I wholeheartedly recommend the program! The community is wonderfully welcoming and supportive—perfect for creative growth. The instructors are not just knowledgeable but genuinely caring, always available with guidance. Their dedication makes the experience both enriching and enjoyable.
Creative Growth & Personal Inspirations
“Breakthrough Moments” at IDEA School of Design
I initially envisioned myself solely as an illustrator, immersed in visual storytelling. Surprisingly, I've discovered my passion lies in branding. This shift has opened exciting new possibilities, allowing me to combine artistic skills with strategic thinking to craft compelling brand identities. I'm thrilled to explore branding's dynamic world, where I can shape and communicate brands' unique stories.
My transition from illustration to branding stemmed from my passion for packaging and memorable brand experiences. This wasn't just a career shift—it was a revelation about branding's power to create emotional connections.
Packaging particularly fascinates me. A well-designed package can evoke emotions, tell stories, and enhance products magically. This fascination led me to explore how every branding element—from logos to customer service—shapes a brand's identity. Exceptional brand experiences showed me how thoughtful branding builds trust and loyalty, proving it's about more than aesthetics—it's about creating meaningful connections.
This shift has been incredibly rewarding, merging my artistic skills with strategic thinking. It's opened new creative avenues where I can help brands resonate with consumers. My journey illustrates the transformative power of following passion and embracing new challenges.
Creative Life outside of IDEA School of Design
I passionately explore the world through photography, capturing everyday beauty. Doodling serves as my visual journal, letting thoughts flow freely. As a gastronomic enthusiast, I adore cooking—experimenting with flavors and techniques to understand different cultures. Each dish connects me to global culinary traditions, making cooking a delicious journey of discovery.
How do your personal passions influence your artistic process?
Cooking profoundly influences my creative process—both involve transforming ordinary elements into something extraordinary. The parallels are striking: selecting ingredients (design elements), experimenting with flavours (exploring concepts), and refining until achieving perfection (the final design).
Photography shapes my artistic vision by training me to observe differently, appreciate details, and tell visual stories—skills that directly translate to branding and design. These passions constantly refresh my perspective, reminding me that all creative work—whether cooking, photography, or design—aims to create resonant experiences that evoke emotion and leave lasting impressions.
What's your favourite music video?
Justice - Neverender (Starring Tame Impala)
For more on Kyla
Instagram: @kylaslucidworld
Linkedin: Kyla Seguiban
