Leslie Badani

Creative Director

“Everyone is so talented, friendly and supportive. It feels like I learn something new and useful from my colleagues every day.”

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Work

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When did you start working at Powell Tate?

I started working at Powell Tate in August 2015.

What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve ever gotten?

From a design professor in college: “If you think it looks fine, it’s still too big.”

What’s the coolest (or weirdest) place a project has taken you?

The archives at the National Gallery of Art.

What’s the best thing you’ve seen happen inside Powell Tate office?

The satisfaction and relief after a big team push for a pitch. 

If you weren’t working in this industry, what would you want to do?

Open a design bookstore. I love design, books, and curating, so it’s a no-brainer.

Life

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What’s something surprising people might not know about you?

I designed a few stamps that were issued by the United States Postal Service between 2015 and 2019. At the time, I was lucky enough to be working with one of four USPS art directors responsible for developing stamp concepts. Many don’t know that anyone can submit a stamp proposal to the Citizens’ Stamp Advisory Committee. It could actually be issued one day.

What’s your favorite way to unwind in your free time?

Relaxing at home with my husband, some snacks, and a movie. To quote Peter from Office Space, “I did absolutely nothing and it was everything I thought it could be.”

Where would you love to travel in the world to gain inspiration?

Tokyo for the maximalist in me and Reykjavík for the minimalist.

What’s your favorite thing about your hometown?

The diversity. I grew up in Annandale, VA and there’s never been a shortage of amazing people and food.

Who is someone that inspires you right now?

Women in pop music, specifically Lady Gaga, Beyoncé, and Charli XCX. Pop music is an art form and they nail it every time.

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