MANDALA MAGAZINE

Introduction

The Mandala Magazine is a bi-annual publication produced by the University of Minnesota's Bakken Center for Spirituality and Healing. Over six issues, I've refined an efficient, repeatable design system that feels fresh each time. Each issue takes one to two months to complete, balancing layout design, photo sourcing, stakeholder feedback, and last-minute content additions while maintaining a cohesive visual identity that evolves seasonally. My role involves not just designing spreads myself, but mentoring student designers by assigning them specific articles, reviewing their work, and training them in the established design system.

Introduction

Challenges

Challenges

The saddle-stitch binding method required precise pagination planning, meaning every issue had to be a multiple of four pages. This often meant recalculating layouts when content ran long, short last-minute additions were added.

I standardized elements like a 2-3 column grid cap, consistent typography to establish hierarchy, and formatted pull quotes that create visual rhythm throughout the publication. These decisions ensure a professional, cohesive reading experience while giving me structure to work quickly.

Final thoughts

Final thoughts

Working within the same framework repeatedly has pushed me to discover new typographic/ layout capabilities in Indesign, and ways to make academic content visually compelling. Working with the student designers has also strengthened my mentorship and communication skills.

Stakeholder feedback has been consistently positive, and while I don't have donation metrics, the magazine continues to serve as a central fundraising tool for the Center.

Next projects.

All projects

(2016-25©)

WELCH'S

2024

WELCH'S

2024

TRANSCEND

2024

TRANSCEND

2024

2026© SHMU Studio

Let’s talk.

Let's talk about your brand,
whether you need a full visual identity, social content strategy, or a system that scales.

Collaborative Process

I work closely with you to understand your vision, values, and goals, ensuring the design direction aligns with what matters most to your brand.

Clear Communication

After our conversation, you'll get a detailed project plan with timelines, milestones, and check-in points so we're always on the same page.

Let’s talk.

Let's talk about your brand, whether you need a full visual identity, social content strategy, or a system that scales.

Co-Creation

I work closely with you to understand your vision, values, and goals, ensuring the design direction aligns with what matters most to your brand.

Clarity

After our conversation, you'll get a detailed project plan with timelines, milestones, and check-in points so we're always on the same page.

Let’s talk.

Let's talk about your brand, whether you need a full visual identity, social content strategy, or a system that scales.

Co-Creation

I work closely with you to understand your vision, values, and goals, ensuring the design direction aligns with what matters most to your brand.

Clarity

After our conversation, you'll get a detailed project plan with timelines, milestones, and check-in points so we're always on the same page.