INTERVIEW WITH UON GRAPHIC DESIGN STUDENT JOSIE GREIG, "SOCIALLYDESIGNED"
Hi Josie, Tell us a bit about yourself?
Hey! 👋 I'm a 22-year-old student studying a Bachelor of Visual Communication Design, majoring in Graphic Design and Illustration. Growing up I lived in the coastal town of Coffs Harbour, known for its beaches and tourism (you may have heard of the big banana...), but moved to Newcastle in early 2021 to study at UON. In my spare time, I love to attend live music shows, walk along the beach, listen to music, and take photographs on film of people and places that inspire me. I also freelance graphic design!
Tell us about @sociallydesigned- what inspired you to start it? Things you've learned along the way?
Socially designed is what I’m known as, as a freelance graphic designer. It first began in mid-2021 in the form of an Instagram account that I used as a creative outlet during COVID isolation. As a creative person, listening to music was what I turned too to keep inspired whilst stuck at home. When I combined the two together, I found myself designing alternative and concept album art and graphics for bands and artists who I was a fan of at the time.
Over time, I would post my concept art to my Instagram and tag the bands in the art I had made, which in return kick-started some of the connections that ended up giving me my first jobs as a designer. Since then I have worked with bands and venues such as The Terrys and The Newcastle Hotel, and have started to find my feet as a professional designer and make a name for myself.
Along the way, I have learnt that If you are going to start something, make sure you are passionate about it, as there’s a better chance you will succeed. I recommend reaching out to people who inspire you, or who you may want to work with, as often as you can, as you never know what could come of it.
What does a day in your life look like?
A day in my life often starts with responding to emails, and keeping up to date within Australian music and culture. I like to stay on top of my game, and be educated on topics and new releases within the music industry. I then typically attend my university classes, and further complete my assignments (preferably before the due date!). Once all that is done, it’s time to be creative.
Living by the beach really helps with clearing my mind and prevents creative block. I often take a sketch book and/or iPad and just sit by the waves whilst I draw up some ideas for my current clients and personal projects. From here I eventuate and develop my ideas into what my client is looking for.
It is important to take breaks, so in my spare time, I love to hang out with friends, find new places, and watch the sunset.
What do you think makes someone a good designer?
A good designer is one who is passionate and patient. It is important to be unique and to find your own style. There are so many ways to approach an idea, and as long as you find your own way, that is what will make you stand out.
It is also beneficial to be able to problem-solve, and adapt to criticism.
Where do you get design inspiration from?
I was first inspired to design through my love of traditional art - eg pen on paper or physical art. The idea of incorporating analog materials with digital design and experimentation was always something that inspired me to begin with. I’ve always loved to look at what design was like in the past, and am constantly researching logos and graphics from the 70s-90s, which I think has helped me form my own style.
I also draw inspiration from current and existing designers and artists via Instagram, Pinterest, Art exhibitions, and as well as from the world around us including shopfront graphics, and through the colour and movement of nature (eg. the changing colours in a sunset, or the movement of waves).
Being open to trying new things also helps me stay inspired.
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