23 questions!

Embracing a very hands on approach, this creative dabbles in a combination Industrial and digital design, finding inspiration in more traditional graphic arts. Read on to see where web design fits into the scheme of things

What sparked your passion for design?
I've drawn ever since I was a kid, worked on cars (modifying and rebuilding) but it was a fateful change in careers that channelled my creativity towards web design.

How creative were you as a youngster?
I was always drawing something...mainly cars.

Do you come from a creative family?
Yes, both mum and dad are very creative. My Mum is a dressmaker and Dad a metal fabricator specialised in designing and creating unique handcrafted items. I learnt the trade before discovering web design. Although I've recently been getting back into my metal fabrication: www.urbanwelder.blogspot.com

Were they supportive of your desire to be a designer?
My parents and family have always been very supportive.

What sort of education and training have you had?
After deciding to put down the trade tools I went to uni and studied Computer Based Art and Design. I've been hooked ever since.

Who did you want to work for when you first entered the industry?
For creative people who appreciate good design.

Tell us about your first project and what do you feel about it now?
It was a garage door website and although I was thrilled to get the job, I look back and realise how much I didn't know and what I've learnt since then.

What is your preferred software to work with and what has been the greatest advancement in technology over the past 5 years?
I love Dreamweaver, Photoshop and Illustrator. Greatest advancements: The ever increasing tools for design and development: jquery, mooTools, we don't need to worry about web safe fonts!!!! YAY!! Google, CSS3 .... the list goes on.. Oh and my new Mac.

Is digital technology going to eliminate the need for print?
I don't think so, I think there's a market for everything and who doesn't love collecting books!

Whose work do you really admire and why?
Herge the creator of Tin Tin. He's obsession for accuracy was unbelievable. He would travel the world making sure his sketches depicted real life scenes for a single sequence in his comic.

Who has been the greatest person that you’ve ever had the pleasure of working with and what have they taught you?
My father, he taught me to work hard and be professional. Also the guys I work with on a daily basis, they teach me those little tips and tricks that you wouldn't ever know how to search for on Google.

How would you describe your work?
Authentic, informative, fresh, exciting, well-aimed.

What are your plans for the future?
To stay healthy, love life, expand my design and development skills. Establish a relationship with like minded people.

What sort of company would you like to work with next?
One with passion for all things design! A company that pushes the boundaries, is professional, honest, ethical and recognises quality.

What is your opinion of Australian design?
I think there's some great designers out there. I really like this guys work: www.jayhollywood.com.au

What is the best/worst thing about being a designer in Australia?
No bad, with the internet and Melbourne being a great hub for design and creativity, it's all good.

In your opinion, what is the greatest challenge the Australian design industry has to face in the near future?
Low cost outsourcing “cowboys”, hopefully this trend doesn't last. I think Australia has a unique sense of design that will only develop further.

What is your creative outlet outside of design?
Friends and family. Mountain biking, down hilling especially.

What is the best designed bar in Melbourne?
I prefer coffee and highly rate City Tiler in Port Melbourne.

What are your top 5 websites at the moment?
WOW! There's so much COOL stuff out there at the moment!
www.herohousing.org
www.louiscarre.fr
www.participatorypolitics.org
www.kennymeyers.com
www.hd-live.co.uk

What CD are you currently listening to and is it any good?
Low Rider. They're brilliant – Adelaide group.

If I was a font, I’d be...?
I'd be meta bold-roman. It has euro heritage, is modern and functional.

For more information regarding Ross's availability, call us here at Artisan on 9514 1000, or email Ian today!