Monika Chodkiewicz is truly a global citizen. Hailing from Poland, she brings diverse experience to her new role as a senior art director here at Well Done. We sat down with her to talk about what fuels her passion for finding creative solutions, why she views her European heritage as an asset, and how she’s going to use her talents to elevate Well Done’s design.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
A: In one sentence? I’m a designer who’s passionate about developing ideas that shift perceptions. I enjoy creating story-driven work that cuts through the noise. I guess that’s two sentences.
Here’s the expanded version: I’m a learner. The deeper my understanding of the culture, the richer the experiences I can create for my clients. I love the challenge of helping brands connect to their desired customers on an emotional level.
I’m also a hybrid—a multidisciplinary and behavioral designer taking every opportunity to understand the human mind. I’ve worked across graphic design, brand identity, web design, and UI design, using my education in pedagogy, psychology, socialization, art, and multimedia design to solve human puzzles.
Give an example of a human puzzle and how you solved it.
A: Here’s one: Optimizing SKUs selection quite often enhances sales. Think about choices—the paradox of choice, specifically. We love to have options, but too many choices can paralyze us. A curated product portfolio is less overwhelming. Eliminating underperforming color SKUs from the massive interior paint selection at a paint or hardware store will reduce consumer anxiety and increase sales.
Where did you grow up?
A: I grew up in the second-largest city of historical Lesser Poland—a 700-year-old town where incredible history mixes with beautiful landscapes. My biggest takeaway? Transformation is a constant of life. Looking back, it was pretty cool despite the political scene.
How does your European heritage inform your approach to design or make you a stronger marketer?
A: Perspective and awareness. Coming from a different social and cultural background allows me to offer a different angle. It’s about the approach, and since global is a new normal, holding a worldwide perspective and being aware of local preferences simultaneously ensures smoother crossovers.
What led you to Well Done Marketing?
A: Do you remember Forrest Gump’s famous quote about life being like a box of chocolates and that you never know what you will get? Life throws a lot at each of us every day, and most of the time, we can’t control it. However, we can choose our associates, partners, and friends. Choosing WDM was a conscious decision for me. I’ve always wanted to work alongside a team committed to providing great work for clients who wish to make the world a better place.
How do you view your role as senior art director?
A: In general, an art director, designer, or creative needs to visually represent a concept in a broad spectrum and find the appropriate approach for each client. I’m passionate about bringing different people together to create solid solutions and recognize how and when to use various team members’ talents.
What excites you about working in an agency?
A: Agency or in-house, the team is the key. Working with a group of exciting and talented people who want to change the world one project at a time feels like a fun privilege. Working at Well Done excites me because of the core values and creative potential. I look forward to getting to know everyone and helping our clients make an impact.
What do you do in your free time?
A: I love traveling and spending time with my family and friends. Whenever I have a chance, I stay connected with them. Also, I enjoy being immersed in nature, just watching the trees or waves.
Where’s your favorite place to get lost in nature around Central Indiana?
A: Any recommendations? I moved to Indiana a couple of months ago, and I haven’t had a chance to explore much. Where is your go-to place?
We’re woefully flat in Central Indiana, but we have some great parks. Just south of the agency on Shelby St. is one of the city’s biggest—Garfield Park. It has a great arts center, conservatory, and the past couple of years its amphitheater served as the home base for Indy Jazz Fest.
A: I’m adding this to my list.
What else should we know about you?
A: I’m a product of the post-communist and free-market economy. I moved to the U.S. after grad school and had a chance to live in Utah, Montana, and Illinois. I just moved again. Goodbye, Chicago; hello, Indy.
Welcome! We’re passionate about Indy around here. We’ll be more than happy to help you get settled.
A: Thanks! I’m happy to be here.