An insatiable curiosity
Of all the creative services I offer my clients, ‘art direction’ is perhaps the hardest to capture in words. It is more than just a job title and it certainly isn’t taught at design school. There is no secret formula for what makes a great art director.
I have heard the role within a design agency described as a ringleader in a circus, a chef creating Michelin starred dishes, or even a pit crew chief ensuring slick tyre changes on race day. However you describe the role, it’s much more than a creative challenge. You need to be a leader, a mentor and allow the creative process to flourish by giving people time and space to develop. Push beyond your comfort zone and don’t be afraid to fail. Everyone fails.
To nurture the acorn of an idea from germination through to mature oak, you need both commitment and patience. A careful balance between your client’s dream and the reality of the timeframe and resources.
authentic and compelling stories
Whatever your graphic design needs I am here to help. Whether you need a new logo lovingly crafted, an infographic perfected, website banner whipping up, a last minute newspaper advert turning around, a presentation made presentable, or even a huge billboard poster – I guarantee to surpass your expectations. Meaningful stories brought to life by a skilled narrator.
The role of the art director is not restricted to just the visual imagery. Employing the power of words is equally important. Guiding the audience through the story, from the first word of the prologue to the final page. Like any classic piece of literature, the core story must be crafted and structured using layout and typography skills. Sometimes the words come first, other times the sourced images inspire the words. Neither can be rushed if they are to resonate with the reader. If the design feels personal, it will have the potential to build empathy and reach them on an emotional level.
inspirational places
It is important to find inspiration wherever you can. Relocating my studio to Turkey has certainly been a creative catalyst. Sampling a new culture – exploring neighbourhoods, staying curious, continually learning, and of course sampling the edible delights here in Turkey, all help energise my design work.
Whether I’m working in my Bodrum studio or back in the UK – I offer local, national and international clients a full spectrum of graphic design services and support. My role as an Art Director can mean dipping my toes into a branding pool, or into a deeper campaign lake, or making a splash with a print or website project. It’s a refreshingly fluid role in which I explore, influence and inspire.
I work alongside both start-up businesses and established companies to advertise, brand and promote their unique products and services to their customers. I relish a creative challenge, and through the design process I produce something real, something tangible, and something that inspires both clients and customers alike.
Garlic has grown its client list with vigour since launching in 2007 – my graphic design services are used by clients spanning a wide range of sectors including: arts & culture, climate action, education & science, Human Rights, and Mental Health. I am passionate about my design work for these frequently intertwined sectors. According to my clients, I’m easy to work with and so responsive that I’m regarded as a valued team-member rather than an external supplier.
Your search for an experienced art director could well be over!
One Minute Briefs Community
Occasionally in my ‘spare’ time I like to tackle a @OneMinuteBriefs design challenge. Briefed on X/Twitter every day at 10am GMT to create rapid pitches and creative for causes, products and issues. The competition can best be described as ‘fierce but friendly’ with over 400 inspiring entries on most days. To date I have submitted six entries and been a shortlisted finalist twice.
