Hugo Bravo, Illustration ’92, is a sci-fi and fantasy illustrator and graphic designer based in New York City. He created and self-published the 2016 book Vision Illustrated, a look into the creative process of top illustrators.
FIT Newsroom: What led you to FIT?
Hugo Bravo: After high school, I was in the Marine Corps for four years, and at the end of my contract, I knew for sure that I didn’t want to renew. I felt the artist in me wanting to grow and explore, so I decided to listen to that voice. My brother recommended FIT. As soon as I got out of the service, I went straight to college. I wanted to be in an academic environment that would help me refine my talent and give me direction. FIT ended up being the perfect fit.
What do you do for work?
I’m an artist and painter. My true identity, my passion, is my art. My “9-to-5” is different. I work as a graphic designer at Dreamwave Apparel LLC, in Manhattan. We make licensed and private label swimwear and outerwear for boys, girls, men, and women. In the art department, I focus on designing for boys and men’s swimwear and outerwear—things like puffer jackets, hoodies, and more. I’m the one who puts characters like Mickey Mouse or Superman on boys’ swim shorts and makes sure everything is set up correctly for the factory, from printing to sizing and all the little details.
You and your two brothers were known as the “Notorious Bravo Brothers” by the EOP counselors?
I’d say artistic talent runs in the family. My mom was a patternmaker, and both of my brothers also attended FIT and were at the EOP at the same time as I was. It’s very rare that three siblings would be studying the same subject at the same school at the same time. We all had our own artistic voice.
How did the EOP help you as an older student?
Coming out of the Marine Corps, transitioning into college life was a huge culture shock. That’s where EOP really stepped in for me, not just financially, but in helping me adjust. It felt good to have someone to talk to about anything, whether it was issues with a teacher, another student, or personal struggles. It was like having a guidance counselor, but even more involved.
EOP isn’t just for, say, low-income kids from the Bronx. It felt like one big, universal family, and that’s what makes the program so special. It’s an organization that truly looks out for everyone. FIT and EOP nurtured my passion and love for art, so when it came time to graduate and find work in the field, I wasn’t afraid.
Is there anything that you would like to share with students who are considering the EOP?
The wisdom of an old man would be like, “Hey, don’t carry all the weight yourself. There’s always someone there who can listen to you, lend a helping hand.” The EOP can help open paths for you. So, you know, give them a call.
—Dana Flores, Advertising and Marketing Communications ’22