10.2022 | By Kevin Barter
This week we find out a bit more about Mollie, who joined us recently us as a Midweight Designer all the way from Australia!
Tell us a bit about yourself
I’ve recently moved over to the UK from the Sunshine Coast, Australia – I'm lucky enough to have dual citizenship so have always loved the idea of living over here. As much as I love Noosa, I felt very ready to leave my comfort zone especially after these last few years and am really looking forward to a change of pace, new ways of living and meeting new people! When I’m not at work I love being outdoors, trying new restaurants & bars, heading to festivals & gigs, traveling, hiking and am super excited to get to know Brighton & London.
How did you get here?
After my gap year I originally started studying film production, however after doing 2 design electives I quickly changed courses! I then moved to the city and completed my Bachelor of Design at the Queensland College of Art at Griffith University. During my final year of study I completed various internships and placements in marketing agencies and smaller studios, as well as working part-time for the university as a graphic designer, which then became full-time upon graduation. Unfortunately Covid ended this role sooner than hoped and my plans to move to the UK were also on hold. I then moved back home to the Sunshine Coast (Queensland) for 2 years where I worked in 2 small studios on a range of graphic & web design projects. As soon as the world reopened, I headed over to Europe to travel for the summer – which brings me to where I am now, living in Brighton & working in London, finally!
Where do you seek creative inspiration?
I get most of my inspiration from the real world I would say, I love print design and finding creative ideas through posters, book layouts and other designers of course. I loved walking around the streets of Portugal & France over the summer, there were so many interesting signs and buildings combining different colours and type that I’d never seen before. I also have a loooong list of studios, type foundries and design blogs that I admire and often check in to see their recent projects.
What excites you the most about working in the creative industry?
I think the creative industries are incredibly powerful and have a really strong community feel. I love the freedom and independence it allows, and that you’re only as good as you practice – there’s always something new to explore or learn about. Everything is moving so quickly now, at times it can be overwhelming and daunting, but mostly it’s exciting & inspiring.
What do you think is the definition of great design?
I love Dieter Rams approach to design – less, but better. I think you should always aim to create something that is timeless and respect the core principles of design – a grid, good type setting and colour pairings go a long way.
If you could go back in time what advice would you give yourself?
Ask more questions! You can learn so much from your tutors, peers and other designers around you.