The ins and outs of orion’s newest graphic designer
Angie is Orion Creative’s newest digital designer with almost a decade of experience in graphic design spanning across a wide range of industries. For some, graphic design is simply about making things look good. For Angie, it’s about producing creative that makes people’s lives better and designing beautiful content that is more human, interesting, welcoming and empathetic.
But as you’ll discover, there’s a whole lot more to Angie than just her creative prowess and sharp eye for detail. When she’s not whipping up designs to wow our clients, Angie has a second full-time job of looking after her two young children while trying to squeeze in the occasional bushwalk and night alone in front of the TV. Let’s get to know her a bit better.
How did you end up being a graphic designer? What’s been your journey so far?
It’s been fairly straightforward, actually! From childhood, I’ve always been drawn to arts, crafts and writing. Design appealed to me the most because it married functionality and purpose with beauty and emotional punch. I since studied Visual Communications in university and started working as a graphic designer.
Did you always want to become one? What other careers have you contemplated?
Yes, I’ve always wanted to be a designer ? However, much earlier on I did consider being an artist or a writer.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Remember to step back and appreciate the bigger picture. It’s helpful to remember there’s a bigger world out there. Firstly, nail the direction or the big things you’re trying to achieve, then let the smaller things fall into place.
Do you have a motto in life or a favourite saying?
One step at a time – it’s a great way to appreciate the beautiful everyday moments and help you get through tougher times.
What’s it like working for an agency compared to your previous jobs?
I’ve been at small companies previously. I itched for more variety and other designers/complementary disciplines to collaborate with – all of which I’ve found here at Orion!
Agency life is fantastic for learning from other designers and getting stuck into a variety of projects. Bonus points for a stellar team too!
What’s been your favourite project that you’ve worked on over your career so far?
I redesigned a registration and payment gateway from something that was unclear, difficult to read on mobile and just clunky in general. Understandably, many users did not read the terms and conditions properly or complete it. I took great pleasure in restructuring and presenting the information in a way that was clear, concise and accommodating. There’s something so satisfying about making something better and more human!
What do you like doing in your spare time? And what does your perfect weekend look like?
Since having kids, I’ve discovered I really relish sleep and peace! ? Once I’m well rested and have time to spare, I enjoy seeing friends, discovering new outdoor spaces or new hobbies. I took up sewing as a hobby in lockdown – I found it satisfying to learn a new skill with something tangible and understand how something 2D could fit onto a moving three-dimensional body.
A perfect weekend would be spent with my husband and two girls making good memories – a yummy café breakfast, perhaps a beach outing, a (short) bushwalk or a day at the zoo. Now that it’s autumn, I’m looking forward to going away and doing some mushroom picking!
What’s something that you often crave – maybe too much?
As someone surrounded by extroverts; time by myself! I’d love a day to sleep in, and just indulge in being able to do whatever, whenever I want. I’d probably catch up on some crafting, leave a mess, go bushwalking by myself and maybe stay up late watching a new show.
What are you watching/listening to these days? Your favourite movies/TV shows/bands?
I’ve been enjoying a podcast called Hidden Brain – about unconscious human behaviours. Fascinating stuff. I’m currently watching MasterChef and Scrubs. I love comedies, musicals and thrillers when I’m in the right mood. It’s a mix!
What are the top 5 things that would make your stranded-on-a-desert-island list – that you just couldn’t live without?
1. Husband – he’s the one who’ll do the cooking!
2. My girls – I can’t just leave them behind, can I?
3. Sewing machine and fabric, since I’ll have a lot of time for hobbies
4. A good hammock (ideally single, for a good rest!)
5. Mozzie repellent, so I won’t be eaten alive!
If you could be any animal in the world, which one would it be and why?
I’d love to be a dolphin! They get to play, cruise the waves and live in pods with their friends. What a life.
What’s your secret skill? Can you share a fun fact or two about you that no-one would think is true?
I spent a year in a city known for the running of the bulls (and very responsibly didn’t run with the bulls). I speak three languages.
