Laurie Muir
Graphic/Textile Designer, Freelance
Written by Daniel Koppenol on 2008-10-13
What do you see happening in the next five years in the graphic design/textile industry?
In relation to Brisbane and greater Southeast Queensland, we are just beginning to fight for our stance in the industry. There is definitely room and potential for companies to expand, particularly as the Sunshine and Gold Coast merge with Brisbane. This will no doubt create more work and opportunity for not only designers, but for all individuals that work within the creative sector. Internationally, I see new technology emerging, and the advancement of core design software. It’s never ending really, and we as designers have to be aware of how quickly technology evolves and make sure we don’t fall behind.
What are the biggest challenges you and your organisation face as a member of the Brisbane media community?
One of the greatest challenges in Brisbane is the actual geographics and demographics of the city. Although we are growing, the city is still relatively small in comparison to other capitals such as Sydney and Melbourne. Due to this, Brisbane does not have the amount of work or opportunity than other national and international areas. Another issue here is that many key organisations are based south of the border, therefore restricting the potential to grow locally. It’s also difficult working in an industry where basically anyone can design, and design cheaply. You don’t need to have a degree to set yourself up as a designer, however, those who do, must prove the expertise is worth the extra money. Standing out from the crowd and developing an extensive contact list is the key to getting the big projects.
What are the most important/valuable skills that graduates can bring to your industry?
Enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. Graduates have fresh ideas and haven’t yet lost themselves in the lazy ways of a fairly computer based industry. They have up to date software knowledge and are generally fast learners as they have come straight from a learning environment. To be a successful designer you must also be genuinely passionate about the work you produce. I see many people these days designing purely on time and money, this will not see you achieve in the long run. Design is an art, so formulate your own style, and go with it. This industry is also a very subjective and critical one. Graduates should not let this scare them, however, use this criticism to improve their knowledge and skill set.
How would you rate the performance of Brisbane-based media organisations in comparison to other national and international media hubs?
Performance is high, but in comparison to the much larger clients nationally and internationally, it can feel as though we are a bit ‘behind’. I see this changing significantly in the next 5-10 years.
How has new media such as the Internet and mobile communications revolutionised your workplace?
The Internet has its positive and negative influences on the design industry. Obviously, we now have the ability to work with clients inter-state and overseas which instantly boosts clientele for small design studios. In the end, this means more clients and more money. Another positive is the ease in working on collaborative projects. This also gives you the chance to take on much larger projects with others based in various locations. On the negative side, as I mentioned earlier, basically anyone can set up shop, even the clients themselves seem to think they can do the designing themselves. Google a few things here and there, chuck it into Photoshop and there you have it. It’s just like the ‘self-diagnosis’ crisis doctors have been dealing with since the Internet took off. People think they can do it all themselves now that the so-called resources are readily available. Mobile communications along with the Internet allows for almost immediate responses and sign offs. Work is becoming faster, and jobs are taking half the time to complete.
What are the positives and negatives of being a freelance designer oppose to an in-house designer?
On the positive side you can work to your own schedule you basically choose your own hours as long as you get the job done by the cut off. As a freelancer you can also choose (if you’re not desperate for money) the clients and projects that suit you best rather than take up any old job. Freelance design gives you a much more extended artistic license – you can stay close to your personal style whereas an in-house designer works within the company’s framework and set design guidelines. In relation to negatives, the income and demand for work can be highly unstable at times – you generally don’t have long term relationships with clients and you have to fight hard for the jobs. You are competing with other freelance designers who may choose to lower their charges beyond your own limit. In house design is also good in allowing you to move up in the ladder career wise. You work with a team, know the positions available and may choose to push yourself higher in that team as you go along.
Where do you find your inspiration? How has the conception of various software programs and new media technologies aided this process?
My biggest inspiration comes from everyday life. I look to nature often when designing textiles and find myself viewing the world in shapes and colour. The way in which existing items interact with each other and the influence weather and the natural aging process has on surfaces such as rocks and even architecture. Software and new media technologies play a large role in finding inspiration and also keeping fresh ideas. I find I prefer to look at my surroundings first, then I turn to my computer and search for current trends, great colour combination’s, other artists, new approaches to design and the latest techniques.