Cat Fanale

Minimalist designer, artisan of objects, seeker of joy in domestic spaces

About

I have always been a tinkerer and a creative. As a child I had many (uncommon) hobbies I obsessed over, including but not limited to loom-beading, fly-tying, crochet, nail art, musical instruments, mural-painting and hydroponic gardening.I continued my exploration of the arts at Walnut Hill School for the Arts, a boarding high school, where I took nearly every class in the art department. After exploring painting, printmaking, bookbinding, ceramics, and more, I moved on to the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, where I was awarded a presidential merit scholarship. I focused on product design, architecture, and ceramics.Now, I am working on a variety of different independent projects, the main one being my design business, Dacha Co, which focuses on giving joy to people's everyday routines in order to live brighter days.I think the one aspect that brings together all my interests is that I love to make things with my hands. I am motivated by that moment where the thing you've worked so hard on is right in front of you, in the flesh.

Experience

Work

Ceramics Studio Tech - Art Institute of Chicago
-managed materials and tools, performed kiln maintenance, and maintained a safe environmentPhotographer/Data Collector - Westrock Appraisal
-Took photos and collected data, contacted building managers as needed, organized materials for streamlined delivery to appraiserFurniture Sales Associate - CB2
-learned about designers, collections, and products to provide personalized service based on clients' budget, needs, and styleFreelance
-i've worked on projects for individuals and businesses including but not limited to:
-graphic design             -product design
-architectural design      -interior design
-photography               -design consulting

Education

Walnut Hill School for the Arts - Diploma with Honors
-founder and head of ceramics club
-visiting families campus tour guide
-multiple public art muralsSchool of the Art Institute of Chicago - BFA with Honors
-early college program
-“limelight” mural: 1-100 block w couch pl, chicago
-presidential scholarshipOxbow School of Art
-glassblowing for tableware

Contact