Daniel Silva

Ever since my Father placed a pencil on my hands when I was 4, it has seem that I have never been able to put it down. Creativity runs in the veins, it's part of my D.N.A., it defines who I am. Both my Dad and Uncle are nationally recognized artists in Brazil. My Father, Celio Silva, has been an illustrator specialized in cartooning and animation in the city of Governador Valadares for at least 20 years. His brother, Rogerio Cordeiro is a award wining painter. Honored by the city of Governador Valadares for his Byzantine style mural inside the wall and ceiling of city's oldest Catholic Church, among many others achievements throughout his 40+ years career. My Mother Thereza Ribeiro, has always been painting and doing various forms of arts and crafts her entire life.

Moving to the United States when I was 13 was a tough transition. But I've always managed to make friends in school just by drawing cool pictures of comic book super heroes. My peers always liked to see me drawing, the teachers weren't big fans, since it took most of my attention away from them. In 2002 I finished High School but never managed to make it to my graduation ceremony, because I was shipped of to Boot Camp the day before graduation. Making me the first person in the class of 2002 to receive
his diploma.

I joined the ARMY after September 11th, 2001 when I was 17 years old. The attack on the country that adopted me and my family, and has given us the opportunity for us to achieve the American Dream was a big contributor to that decision. Over time it proved to be a invaluable experience that has shaped the person I am today. The lessons I've leaned in the military, both personal and professional, would prove it's importance again and again. Towards the end of my 3 year contract, after serving on the Demilitarized Zone in South Korea, and in the American / Mexican Border in Ft. Bliss, I realized that I was an artist at heart, it was time to face my destiny.

I made good use of the G. I. Bill and was in school a month after I was done with my military contract. I didn't know what graphic design was, I just knew it had something to do with drawing, and that's all I cared about. After two quarters in school I finally realized what graphic design is, and fell in love immediately. I have been interested in it ever since, and use every opportunity I can to learn as much about design and advertisement as possible. Also to apply things I've learned from many other sources into my work. I'm constantly trying to challenge myself so that I can become a better professional. I hold myself to the highest standards and hope to one day reach a recognizable level amongst people in this industry....