15: Empowering Black and Brown Designers Through Community and Support with Dominique Jones

What if the secret to success in book design isn’t just talent, but community, intention, and breaking through industry barriers?

Dominique Jones is a senior designer at Dutton Penguin Random House and president of Blk + Brwn Book Designers. She turned her passion for graphic design into a powerful movement of representation in the publishing industry.

In this episode, Dominique shares her creative journey, showing how she turned a passion into a mission. She takes us behind the scenes of book design, unpacking the challenges of representation, the power of community, and the art of visual storytelling.

From Passion to Purpose

Since Dominique was a child, she had a passion for books and book cover design. But once she was in the industry, she wasn’t satisfied with her own success. She wanted to help other designers of color get into the industry too.

Through Blk + Brwn Book Designers she was able to create a space for designers of color in an industry that’s often closed off to them. She built something bigger than herself and something that’s reshaping the landscape of book design.

Actionable Insight: Your creative passion can be a pathway to meaningful change. Start by looking for opportunities to make space for others in your field.

Bonus: Spend 10 minutes today researching communities that support diverse creative professionals. The right community can change everything.

Building a Creative Community

Dominique didn’t just succeed on her own. She created Blk + Brwn Book Designers, a group that goes far beyond basic networking. It’s about building genuine relationships that open doors for designers who might not have access to traditional resources.

"We all love graphic design and books," she says. This group isn’t just a space for advice. It’s a home for creatives seeking mentorship and support. It’s about connection, not just business.

Actionable Insight: Community is your greatest asset. Look for groups that align with your values and creative goals. Real connections are everything.

Bonus: Reach out to one person in your creative field this week for a meaningful conversation. You never know where a single connection can lead.

The Realities of Creative Careers

Dominique’s journey shows that creative success isn’t just about raw talent. It’s about resilience. Feedback, rest, and continual growth are crucial elements that helped her along the way.

"Taking breaks is important," she shares. "It helps my brain get a rest."

From internships to the professional world, Dominique’s story is a reminder that creative careers are about learning, adapting, and, most importantly, staying energized.

Actionable Insight: Embrace feedback as a tool for growth. Use criticism to fuel improvement, not discourage you.

Bonus: Create a simple system for collecting and processing constructive feedback in your creative work. It can be a game-changer for growth.

Designing with Purpose

Dominique’s design philosophy goes beyond making things “look good.” It’s about understanding the deeper meaning behind every project. Storytelling, representation, and crafting experiences that resonate with people are all important elements of good design.

Her approach shows that great design doesn’t just communicate. It connects. It’s about creating something that leaves a lasting impact.

Actionable Insight: Your creative work is more than just a product. It’s a form of communication. Bring more intention to your next project.

Bonus: Challenge yourself to add a layer of intentionality to your next creative project. How can you make it more meaningful?

Key Takeaways

• Community can transform individual potential.
• Taking breaks = creative renewal.
• Diversity in design matters. Representation is everything.
• Being intentional drives creative success.

Turning Your Creative Vision into Reality

Dominique didn’t wait for permission. She built her path, one design at a time. Her success isn’t about luck. It’s about persistence, community, and staying true to her vision.

If you’ve been feeling stuck or wondering how to make your mark in the creative world, this is your sign to start.

Want help growing your creative career? Let’s talk.

Book a free strategy session at TheStandoutCreatives.com. Spots are limited, so grab yours before they fill up!