23 questions!

Grant is a new addition to the Artisan team and we're thrilled to have him on board. From a man who found early inspiration from album covers in the music industry, and took a keen interest in all things branding - to a man of the world, we're very pleased to introduce you to our latest A-Lister

What sparked your passion for design?
I’ve always been inspired by great album covers and would spend hours in record stores just looking at all the amazing artwork. I think that’s why I still buy CD’s instead of downloading off the net.

How creative were you as a youngster?
Growing up I found drawing to be my most creative outlet. I would create characters without using any reference.

Do you come from a creative family?
Dad is in the printing industry and had is own company for many years printing T-shirts, Jeans and labels. He would also do the artwork by hand. No computers in those days.

Were they supportive of your desire to be a designer?
They were very supportive and had always told me that as long as I could find something I enjoyed that I could make a career out of anything.

What sort of education and training have you had?
I left year 12 and did a fine arts course for 2 years at Box Hill TAFE trying my hand at painting, sculpture, line drawing and art history. There was a Graphic Design elective for a semester, which helped me make the decision to do another 2 years completing an Advanced Certificate in Art and Design at Casey College.

Who did you want to work for when you first entered the industry?
I was very interested in branding at the time and thought it would be great to work for Ken Cato.

Tell us about your first project and what do you feel about it now?
My first project was a brochure and poster design for the Department of Education. It was my first week working and I felt I had learnt more in that week doing that project than the past 2 years at design school. It’s a great reminder that you never stop learning or being inspired.

What is your preferred software to work with and what has been the greatest advancement in technology over the past 5 years?
InDesign has had the greatest advancement over the past 5 years. Adobe have done a fantastic job making it a seamless integration with Illustrator and Photoshop. InDesign would have to be one of the most essential programs for any designer.

Is digital technology going to eliminate the need for print?
Print will be with us for a long time I’d suspect. There have been many advancements over the last 20 years with embellishments and special paper stocks. If you can create a beautifully printed product with that wow factor it will beat digital every time.

Whose work do you really admire and why?
Si Scott. His freehand typographical work in black ink is amazing. www.siscottstudio.com

Who has been the greatest person that you’ve ever had the pleasure of working with and what have they taught you?
There isn’t one single person. Every Designer I have worked with has taught me something.

How would you describe your work?
Constantly evolving. I absorb all inspiration that surrounds me. My style is not conducive to just one style.

What are your plans for the future?
I’d like to work with some of Australia’s leading brands and feel my best work is just ahead of me.

What sort of company would you like to work with next?
It would be fantastic to work with some of the up and coming, cutting edge design studios. I’d like to get involved in their design process and see how they solve complex design briefs.

What is your opinion of Australian design?
Australian design has always been at an extremely high standard. Especially in wonderfully eclectic Melbourne! You don’t have to look oversees to be inspired.

What is the best/worst thing about being a designer in Australia?
The best thing about being a Designer in Australia is how competitive we are as a nation. It ensures we push the boundaries of design. The worst thing is not having enough exposure to the rest of the world due to our geographic location.

In your opinion, what is the greatest challenge the Australian design industry has to face in the near future?
Our greatest challenge as designers in Australia is sustainability and how we remain competitive without neglecting our impact on the environment.

What is your creative outlet outside of design?
Photography and sport.

What is the best designed bar in Melbourne?
Baroq House – 9 – 13 Drewery Lane, CBD.

What are your top 5 websites at the moment?
www.landor.com
www.houseind.com
www.inspiredm.com
www.thinkdesignblog.com
www.pslover.com

What CD are you currently listening to and is it any good?
Angus & Julia Stone - Down The Way. Great album, but a little melancholy.

If I was a font, I’d be...?
Avant Garde.

For more information regarding Grant's availability, call us here at Artisan on 9514 1000, or email Vicki-Anne today!