James Laslavic
Interaction/UX Designer
Job Seeker
What kind of work are you looking for?
I'm looking for impactful, cutting-edge work with brilliant people who can help me and my career grow. I'm open to design firms and in-house studios based in New York City.
How about freelance work?
Sorry, but I'm no longer accepting freelance gigs. I want the stability of regular, permanent employment.
How soon can you start?
I can start right away because my master's degree is done. I finished all my credits and my thesis was accepted, so I'm only waiting for the graduation ceremony now.
Why is there a gap in your resumé?
I had to overcome a medical situation that required years of tests, treatment, and physical therapy. Thankfully, I'm 100% better – and I've been busy since then! Please take a minute to read my Gap Explanation for more information.
Can you write code?
I can build websites with HTML and CSS, and I can use JavaScript frameworks like jQuery. I've also built a WordPress theme in the past, but only once.
Designer
How did you get into interaction design?
What's your favorite design research method?
Favorite design books?
- Operating Manual for Spaceship Earth by R. Buckminster Fuller
- The Inmates Are Running The Asylum by Alan Cooper
- The Elements of Typographic Style by Robert Bringhurst
- Defuturing by Tony Fry
- Moralizing Technology by Peter-Paul Verbeek
Favorite typeface?
Sina, by Dieter Hofrichter. There are lots of other great typefaces that I love – Urania (what you're reading), Candid, Interphases, Something New, IKANSEEYOUALL, League Spartan, Sentinel, Besley, Bookerly, Input, Drafting… – but none of them take my breath away quite like Sina does. It's just perfect, especially in the light weight.
Person with a Life
Where are you from?
I grew up in San Diego. I've also lived in San Francisco, Pittsburgh, and Chicago before coming to NYC.
What's something you're doing to challenge yourself right now?
I'm teaching myself Japanese on Pimsleur. I'm definitely still a beginner, but I'm surprised and proud of how well it's going so far!
What are some of your hobbies and interests?
I run a Dungeons & Dragons* campaign for my friends, organize “spirited” double-blind taste tests, visit offbeat museums, have opinions about map projections**, and play Smash Ultimate*** with my roommate.
*Pathfinder 1E, but I usually say D&D because people know what that is.
**My favorite is the dymaxion map.
***Terry is my main.
Who makes the best pizza in NYC?
My vote is for Capizzi in Hell's Kitchen. Specifically, their margherita with buffalo mozarella and a few sprinkles of red pepper flakes. It's life-changingly good.
Think I might be a good fit for your team?