Telling Stories Through Design: The Vision Behind Studio Down South, an Award-Winning Design Company

Founded by art director and designer Mark Beltran in 2023, Studio Down South soon became an award-winning design studio with a portfolio that speaks for itself: thoughtful, story-driven work that is deceptively simple yet powerfully engaging. Virtual in location but ingrained in the childhood topography of the Imperial Valley where Beltran grew up, the studio is based upon a principle that every brand has a story to tell — and that design can be more than lovely; it can voice purpose and authenticity.

Beltran, working out of the studio by himself, has a deep reservoir to draw from. His roster of clients is a who's who of major clients — Disney, Fox Entertainment, Rivian, Lyft, Luke Combs, and others. The majority of them, he said, were due to referrals and word-of-mouth — a vote of confidence in the strength of his relationships and the trust he's built up over the years.

One of the most important achievements was made when the COVID-19 pandemic saw the State of California commission Beltran to design a poster for its artist series campaign. His work struck a chord so deeply that it was the center of the state's public relations effort.

"Something that was a one-man shop started is something that I'm really proud of," Miguel Beltran said. "In 2024, we won four national awards against large agencies — proof of heart and hustle."

Award-Winning Design: Studio Down South's Ascending Success

Since its founding in 2023, Studio Down South has quickly emerged as a brand to be held accountable for within the design industry, racking up considerable recognition for its intentional and zealous approach to branding. In 2024, the studio received four national awards, competing against some of the country's top design companies. Awards such as one gold, one silver, and two bronze awards all in the name of Studio Down South's prowess in brand identity and creative direction.

The timeline of the awards is a testament to the studio's swift rise to prominence: in less than a year of business, Studio Down South not only acquired a healthy portfolio but was also awarded national recognition—demonstrating that clear, meaningful design and work ethic can create significant change. The awards are a testament to the studio's devotion to producing designs that tell honest truths and resonate with clients and their constituencies on a fundamental level.

Studio Down South provides professional services in brand identity creation for both large and small businesses across the Imperial Valley, San Diego, and the world. The studio's mission is in its simplicity, honesty, and timelessness — avoiding what's current for the moment in favor of designs that capture the true essence of a brand.

Raised in El Centro, Beltran credits much of his artistic foundations to his adolescence — everything from skateboarding and punk shows to designing logos and flyers for emerging bands. His career began with album covers for hip-hop acts like Action Bronson and DJ Premier and has expanded to national brand campaigns.

Now based in San Diego, Beltran also leads creative direction of customer relationship marketing at Tubi previously he worked as the senior brand designer at Rivian. Despite having worked with high-end companies, he remains close to his roots and local customers, mentioning ongoing work with brands within the Imperial Valley as a very rewarding part of his business.

"Good design is about problem-solving and empathy," Beltran said. "It's about listening, knowing the client's needs, and finding a way to tell their story in a way that resonates with them."

Beltran works at Studio Down South on his own right now but eventually wants to have more employees. He's open to working together and welcomes anyone who wants to work together to reach out via Instagram (@astudiodownsouth) or email (hi@studiodownsouth.com).

For more information about the studio's services or to contact, go to www.studiodownsouth.com.