Maria del Pilar Toro-Ortiz, IALD, CLD, IES

Formally trained as an architect with over 15 years experience in lighting design I have always had a particular view on life that does not necessarily entail the black outfit, Buckminster Fuller quoting, Corbusian platitudes that occasionally come with the discipline. In a brief career change I took advantage of my diverse background that includes Art, Architecture, Lighting Design, Graphic Design and Retail, combined with years of project management, construction experience and my inherent passion for all things fashion, art and design which served a key role for shaping Retail experiences through Visual Merchandising and Art Direction. My focus now is on one integral Architectural Lighting experience for both interior and exterior environments. My inherent curiosity and my passionate nature help me thrive on intriguing projects that conceptually engages me and challenges me technically. I am constantly searching for unique environments that are committed to excellence, creative expression and challenging design opportunities that enable me to grow professionally and personally. Skills Outspoken and courteous with excellent communication skills; a streamlined problem solver. Willingness to work fueled by a desire for superior knowledge. Works with much initiative to further education and complete the experience as a design professional. Inventive and efficient in the communication of aesthetic ideas through various media; drafting, sketching, hand rendering & virtual-analog model making. Experience with computer-aided design, image digitizing, manipulation of digital collage layouts and full presentations in windows o/s and Mac platforms. Am skilled in the use of Adobe platform, AutoCAD, 3dsMax, AGI.32 and DiaLuz as well as the MS Office platform. I have complete written and oral fluency in English & Spanish, intermediate proficiency in French and beginner in Portuguese. Rapid leaner. Excellent in interpersonal relationships; Hardworking. Dedicated.