Hi i'm Heather, I first started studying Visual Communication in 2018 at North East Scotland College, where I completed my HND. Currently I am working on getting my degree at UHI. I am focusing on building on my knowledge and skills in graphic design. I enjoy learning new techniques and methods to develop my designs and to create work that makes me happy. I am a design thinker and a very visual person who tries to find inspiration in everything. Solving problems using design is something that I love to do.
My main interests are graphic design, typography and illustration. The areas I love to work in are branding, packaging and advertising. Typically I work digitally but I love to incorporate hand drawn illustration when I can to keep some traditional feel in my designs and to create an interesting contrast. Typography is something I am really interested in and I like using typefaces that are different and have a psychedelic feel to them. 60s and 70s design are some of my main influences, Wes Wilson was one of the first designers that inspired me.
I used this as inspiration for my graded unit for my HND. The goal for this project was to create a brand identity for a craft beer company based in Aberdeenshire that I named Gypsy Juice. I went for a fortune teller theme that will be noticed on a shelf. The varieties of beer are named after different tarot cards to keep the theme continuous. I went for a psychedelic style with the typography and pattern that emphasises the magical feel of the company. I incorporated illustration into the design for a more personal feel and to add interest.
Another packaging project that I really enjoyed was creating a skincare and cosmetics brand that would appeal to 15-30 year olds who wanted products that were fun but also gentle and effective. I named the brand Velvet to represent the soft and gentle products that will result in a smooth complexion. I went for a more minimal approach with touches of a subtle pattern that would be fitting for each product. This gives an idea of what it is at a glance whilst maintaining a softer look. As well as creating packaging for the brand I also mocked up a website and mailer boxes that fit the visual branding and are more appealing and exciting for customers to receive.
My aim at the minute is to focus on finishing my degree and gaining design experience. In the future my goal is to work at a design studio with clients and projects that interest me and excite me. I would also love to work as a freelancer. I’m excited to work with people and help them shape their brand identity to represent them and their mission visually. I want to help people’s businesses stand out from the crowd and showcase their individuality by creating a brand that is bold and unique.
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