Women in Design with​​ Maria Botelho: Blending Art, Digital, and Empathy

Despite women making up nearly half of the design industry, few hold leadership positions and many still need help to be equally compensated and recognized for their work. Design is one of the few industries that offers multiple paths for entry, from earning a standard degree to being self-taught. The Women in Design series aims to highlight the unique stories and lessons of women in the design industry, across different experiences and expertise, at every stage and niche.

From her beginnings as a painter specializing in ceramics to establishing her own design studio, Maria Botello has cultivated a career that blends artistic expression with modern design techniques. In this interview, she shares her experiences transitioning from traditional art forms to digital design and how she keeps her creativity alive every day.

“The most rewarding part of being a woman in design is using empathy and intuition to craft meaningful designs. It's a superpower that connects me deeply with clients and brings their visions to life.” — Maria Botelho

Can you share a bit about your journey into the design field?

My journey into design is an adventure! I started as a painter, specialising in ceramics, and later formalised my skills with a design course from the Lisbon School of Design (LSD). But let’s be real—design evolves so fast that I’ve had to keep learning on my own too. This mix of structured learning and self-discovery has given me a broad toolkit to tackle all sorts of creative projects. And my love for painting and ceramics? They keep me grounded and bring a unique perspective to my design work. Plus, they’re my go-to for unwinding after a busy day.

What inspired you to pursue a career in design?

I've been hooked on art since I was a tiny tot, with paint brushes and crayons being my best friends. As I grew older, I became obsessed with mastering the art of dimension and grid perfection with colours. This newfound skill sparked a curiosity to explore various materials and mediums, ultimately leading me to dive headfirst into the digital world. And that's when the magic happened - I discovered that I could harness my creativity with practicality, combining my artistic flair with technical. I'm very excited to be part of this world where art, design and tech converge.

What does a typical day look like for you in your current designer role?

A typical day for me is a mix of creativity and systematization. I work in my own studio, which means I have a wide range of clients and projects to take care of. My day starts  with organizing my tasks and deliveries for the day, making sure I have enough time for each project and that I'm meeting all my deadlines.Once I have my tasks sorted, I spend time developing new concepts and making research. I love this part of the day, as it's where I get to be creative and come up with innovative solutions for my clients. I usually have a side cup of coffee and some loud classic music playing in the background to keep me energized and focused, sometimes a Brazilian samba to sing out loud. I love the variety that comes with working in my own studio.

Can you describe one of your favorite projects that you've worked on? What made it memorable?

Building my own studio has become the special project. As a one-woman studio,I take pride in being able to deliver amazing work. I am responsible for all aspects of the work, from design to execution, ensuring that every project is tailored to the client's needs and preferences. This direct communication and collaboration with my clients allows me to understand their goals and deliver results that meet their expectations. I love that I can work closely with each client to bring their vision to life.

How do you cultivate creativity in your work? Are there any particular sources of inspiration you turn to regularly?

I cultivate creativity by being a design detective, always on the lookout for inspiration everywhere. From the moment I step outside to the moment I open my laptop, I'm on the hunt for design gems. I find inspiration in architecture, street art, the way people dress, and even the typography on a coffee shop sign. It's like my brain is a design sponge, soaking up all the creative goodness it can find. And when I need a boost, I head to websites like Awwwards, where I can get lost in a sea of innovative designs and fresh ideas. So, if you ever need me, just know I'm out there, scouring the world for the next big design inspiration.

What is a current design trend that you're most excited about?

I love Bold Minimalism, a trend that brings together clean simplicity and bold elements with abstract Gradients, bringing some serious depth and energy.Blur trend is like the icing on the cake - it creates a sense of movement. This trend is all about giving you a unique and dynamic visual experience totally on-trend.And let's not forget about Swiss Style which is all about simplicity, cleanliness, and objectivity. It's a major influence on modern graphic design and is forever timeless.

Looking back, what is one thing you wish you had known when you started your career in design?

Looking back, one thing I wish I had known when I started my career in design is to be patient, trust the process, and don't listen to the imposter voice. It's easy to get caught up in self-doubt and compare yourself to others, but it's crucial to focus on your own growth and progress. With time and persistence, you'll find your unique voice and style, and your designs will flourish.

What are the most rewarding and most challenging parts of being a woman in design?

The most rewarding thing about being a woman in design is to use my empathy and intuition to understand clients and create memorable designs. I believe that through being present and connecting with our environment and the ones around you, we can achieve great relevant design. This aspect I know I have developed through connecting with my own femininity. The most challenging thing is having no doubts about my vision. As a woman, we know we need to fight impostor syndrome and keep in check our conscientious nature to be able to go out there, showcasing your talent and presenting your designs with pride and no hesitation. I do surround myself with strong women and we make sure we are aware of this and can simply overcome it by mirroring each other and cheerleading our way through. I am grateful for all the women in tech and in other industries who have supported me in this.

What's your (recent) favorite design tool?

Figma

Stay in Touch with Maria!

Follow Maria on LinkedIn and visit her portfolio.

Discover more in Women in Design, our interview series where talented designers share their creative journeys and personal thoughts.