How did you get into the industry?
After graduating from University in 2015, I faced several challenges in finding employment. Like many of my peers, naively I was under the impression that I would be able to secure a job immediately.
However, I remained persistent as I had a strong passion for design and theory. Eventually, I landed my first job working in-house for a drink wholesaler, which paved the way for bigger and better opportunities.
Where are you based now and who do you work for?
Currently, I am based in Westgate-on-Sea, a small town located near Margate, Kent. I mostly operate as a freelance designer, often collaborating with other design agencies.
If you weren’t in your current industry, what would you be doing?
This is a difficult question to answer, but when I was younger, I always envisioned myself as an artist in some capacity. Drawing was the only talent I had, and I enjoyed it immensely.
Can you explain your creative process? What makes it unique?
I believe that research is the foundation of every creative process. Before starting any project, I research to gain an understanding of the client’s needs and target audience.
Once I have a clear idea, I begin the creative process. I often start with a typographic approach, visualising the brand or aesthetic in my mind and pairing it with a typographic system.
How would you describe your style?
My style has a systematic approach and is heavily influenced by the pioneers of our industry. Icons such as Wim Crouwel, Jurriaan Schrofer, Karl Gerstner, Josef Müller-Brockmann, Massimo Vignelli and so many more have influenced the way I approach design.
Which individuals do you gain inspiration from? Do you have any heroes in the industry?
I’ve already included some of my heroes in the above question, but there are also modern design agencies that inspire me daily. Such examples are Neubau (neubauberlin.com), Kurppa Hosk (kurppahosk.com), SPIN (spin.co.uk), Bakken & Bæck (bakkenbaeck.com) and Accept & Proceed (acceptandproceed.com).
What tips would you give to aspiring creatives looking for work?
Never give up. The first job may not be the one you always dreamed of, but it’s vital to the progression of any designer. Experience comes from getting work, and the more work you do, the better your next job will be.
What tips would you give to other professionals to get more clients?
Networking and social media can be effective ways to find clients. It is important to remember that they are not the only ways.
Confidence in your work and ability is important, but it is also essential to adhere to deadlines and communicating with clarity.
What kind of tools/kit/software could you not do without?
Adobe CC, specifically InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator. With the ever-growing landscape of design, I find myself using tools such as XD and Figma so much more.
What’s your secret to staying inspired and motivated?
Maintaining a passion for all things design. Keeping up with design trends by following designers and agencies on social media, whilst utilising the core design principles laid out by the pioneers of our industry.
What’s the work achievement you’re most proud of?
The work achievement I’m most proud of is the relationship I have built with my peers; I have made friends that I otherwise wouldn’t have if it weren’t for the collaboration and enthusiasm that we all shared together.
Regarding a singular piece of work, I would probably say the identity for Mankind Music. It’s one of those projects that I look back on fondly, whether it’s the logo’s symbol or the typographic system within the branding.
What is the one thing that you would change about the industry?
That’s a difficult question to answer, but I would probably say that there’s often a lack of transparency and honesty within the industry.
Any websites, books or resources you would recommend?
We are fortunate enough to have a wealth of options to keep us inspired. The books by Unit Editions (uniteditions.com) are perfect for those wanting to understand more about design legacy.
Websites such as itsnicethat.com, the-brandidentity.com, visuelle.co.uk, visualjournal.it and searchsystem.co are all great resources to inspire creativity.
