Berlin-based designer Anna Clark blends curiosity, craft, and care into every project she touches. With roots in graphic design and experience across animation, illustration, sustainable design and now UX/UI, her path has been one of constant evolution. But through it all, her values remain steady: create with purpose, balance complexity, and make a positive impact.
Can you tell us a little about your first few steps in your career. Was there a moment or experience when you realised this was what you'd do as a career?
What lessons from your career have most shaped your style and approach?
Tell us about the core values or philosophies that guide your creative practice.
Holistic Approach: balancing user needs, project goals, and context of design.
Positive Impact: utilizing design for innovation and beneficial change.
What needs to change, so emerging and under-represented creative professionals have more opportunity, are seen and heard?
How important is it that creative professionals find their unique voice?
After losing my job I almost gave up on my personal style and considered making my portfolio more generic, just to feel more hireable. I stayed true to my design persona though, and eventually found a job that genuinely aligned with my values.
I think it’s important to stay authentic to your own voice. You don’t need to force uniqueness, being true to yourself naturally makes you stand out. (And keep exploring if you are still discovering who you are!)
Looking ahead, what do you think are the key factors that will influence change for creative professionals?
How much does your city influence your work?
Berlin has an abundance of creative groups and community initiatives, it feels like there’s something happening for every niche interest. I’ve joined ceramic meetups, makerspace events, a riso-print workshop, life drawing sessions, craft nights, and a cooking collective focused on sustainable food systems.
There’s a large and varied design community with regular talks and workshops across disciplines. I love hearing about what others are working on, and topics I want to learn more about!
Tell us some of your favourite, creative professionals and inspiring places in your city!
I’m lucky to work with very talented creatives at Jut-So. They’re knowledgeable about accessibility and create visually delightful brands and interfaces. I’m also a fan of Ellery Studio for their focus on social impact and sustainable practices.
Some of my favourite places in Berlin:
- Gropius Bau is my favorite museum for exhibitions.
- Viktoriapark and Tiergarten are my favorite spots to sit with a sketchbook and enjoy the greenery.
- The library at Hallesches Tor has a piano room you can reserve, and a space with record players and headphones for listening sessions.