I didn’t start out in design. Initially, I was enrolled in an Information Systems program at university, but after a year, I found myself uninspired and restless. While observing a few friends from the design program, I had a simple yet pivotal realisation—I couldn’t picture myself wearing a tie to work every day. As trivial as it seemed at the time, that moment sparked a shift in my path. I decided to enrol in a Design course with Photography and Advertising, and I’ve never looked back since.
Design quickly became more than just a career choice; it became an extension of how I see and interact with the world. Over time, I developed a more creative and playful approach, constantly experimenting and pushing boundaries in my personal projects. While my professional work is grounded in strategy and purpose, I always find ways to infuse that same spirit of exploration into client projects.
For me, design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about storytelling, problem-solving, and finding new ways to communicate ideas. I can’t imagine doing anything else.
For me, the most exciting part of the creative process isn’t the final outcome—it’s the research and experimentation that lead up to it. I love diving deep into different creative fields, exploring films, music, literature, and other art forms, searching for unexpected connections. Inspiration rarely comes from just one place; it’s about combining seemingly unrelated ideas to form a cohesive narrative.
There’s a thrill in uncovering patterns between concepts that, at first glance, don’t belong together. Whether it’s linking a cinematic visual style to a textile pattern or drawing parallels between music composition and design structure, this phase of discovery fuels my creativity. Once I find that core thread, I get to translate it visually—turning abstract ideas into something tangible.
This approach keeps my work dynamic and ever-evolving. It allows me to create designs that aren’t just visually striking but also carry deeper meaning, shaped by the diverse influences that inform them.
One common misconception about graphic design is that design research is just about looking for images on Pinterest. While Pinterest can be helpful for gathering visual inspiration, research in design goes much deeper. Effective research involves studying the subject, analysing how design elements impact communication, and gathering insights through case studies, user behaviour, and even reading up on relevant topics. Images may inspire, but it’s just a small part of a broader, more thoughtful research process that drives meaningful design decisions.
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is balancing creative freedom with client expectations. As a designer, I love pushing boundaries and exploring experimental ideas, but clients often have specific visions or brand guidelines they want to stick to. To overcome this, I’ve learned the importance of clear communication from the start—discussing their goals, constraints, and allowing room for creativity within those boundaries.
Setting boundaries actually frees up creativity by providing a clear framework to work within.
One of the works I’m most proud of is a series of illustrations and event promotions I created for Kafe Kiltir Moris, an event focused on promoting local musical talent. This project was really special because it allowed me to merge two of my passions—design and music. It was an opportunity to push my creative boundaries, experimenting with colour, form, and composition to convey both the dynamism of the music and the spirit of the event. Being part of this project not only challenged me but also reinforced how deeply design can connect with music and culture, and it was amazing to see the visuals resonate with the audience and event-goers.
I read a lot (mostly on random topics) and enjoy discovering new music, especially experimental genres. Music is a big part of my creative process, as it helps me create stories and shape the mood of my work. I also make time for physical activities, which are essential for clearing my mind, especially when I feel stuck. Whether it's a walk, a run, or something more intense, it helps reset my thoughts and brings fresh perspectives to my work. It’s all about finding balance and letting my mind recharge in different ways.
It’s hard to choose just one place I would like to visit! Africa is so diverse and rich in culture, history, and landscapes. Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes are a dream destination, especially the Maasai Mara. Morocco is another place I would love to visit some day. The vibrant colours, intricate architecture, and rich cultural heritage would be incredibly inspiring for both my design work and personal interests. It’s tough to narrow it down!
Embrace the mess.
To me, it means that creativity isn’t always neat and structured—it’s about diving into the chaos of ideas, experimentation, and exploration. The messy part is the process of discovery, where things might not make sense at first, but it’s through that journey that you uncover something meaningful. It’s about letting go of perfection and allowing space for mistakes and unexpected outcomes. In the end, those moments of "mess" often lead to the most exciting, innovative ideas and designs.
Recommendation: James Victore.
His unapologetic approach to design and creativity really embodies the idea of embracing imperfection and the messy process. He challenges the notion of following rules and encourages designers to express their authentic selves. His work and philosophy have been a huge inspiration to me as well, especially in terms of staying true to your vision and not being afraid to take risks. His attitude reminds me that creativity isn’t about making things perfect—it’s about making things real and full of meaning.
Right now, I’m focused on expanding my textile collections and discovering new processes, while continuing to experiment with my work. I enjoy finding ways to merge my personal creative exploration with professional projects. I also take on client work that allows me to align both experimentation and professional outcomes, so I’m constantly growing in both areas. It’s a process of finding balance—letting my personal work feed into my client work and vice versa.