Aurelie Maron didn’t wait for permission to pursue the work she loved. After losing her client base in 2020, she leaned into her lettering passion, creating and sharing consistently—eventually building not only a following, but a thriving business. Her journey is a masterclass in reinvention, self-trust, and turning creative constraints into clarity.
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?
I started as a graphic designer, thinking it would be a super creative career, but I quickly realised I was spending most of my time following briefs, not making the kind of work I loved. The turning point came in 2020, when I lost most of my client work overnight. That space pushed me to finally focus on lettering, share my personal projects, and experiment online. That’s when things really changed. I stopped waiting for permission and started building the career I actually wanted.
What lessons from your career have most shaped your style and approach?
The biggest lesson? Make the work you love before you get hired for it. I learned that by saying no to the wrong jobs, creating personal work, and posting it consistently, I could attract the right audience and eventually, the right clients and students. Style isn't something you find by thinking; it’s something you discover by doing, especially when you push through a challenge or constraint.
Tell us about the core values or philosophies that guide your creative practice.
I believe in experimentation, consistency, and providing value. Everything I post has a purpose, whether it’s to teach, connect, or explore a new idea. I don’t gatekeep what I learn. Sharing builds community, opens doors, and has been key to turning my passion into a sustainable business.
What needs to change, so emerging and under-represented creative professionals have more opportunity, are seen and heard?
There needs to be more visibility and support for creatives building non-traditional careers. A lot of people feel locked out of the design world because they don’t fit the agency or studio model. Platforms, conferences, and education spaces should highlight more self-taught, diverse, and independent paths.
How important is it that creative professionals find their unique voice?
It’s essential but not something that happens overnight. I always tell my students that you find your voice through repetition and refinement. Lettering challenges were key for me. They forced me to show up every day and gave me the constraints I needed to grow fast. Your voice gets clearer the more you create.
Looking ahead, what do you think are the key factors that will influence change for creative professionals?
Independent creators are building careers on their own terms. So, learning how to monetise your skills through digital products, education, or content creation is huge. The tools are there, but creatives need to understand business, marketing, and how to build an audience. That knowledge is just as valuable as your design skills.
How much does your city influence your work?
Living on the Gold Coast keeps me grounded. It’s relaxed, nature-filled, and not too trend-driven. That’s helped me stay focused on making work I enjoy, not just chasing what’s popular online. It’s the kind of place that gives you permission to go at your own pace.
How much does your culture influence your work?
I’m French and grew up in New Caledonia, where I studied literature and fell in love with philosophy and storytelling. That background still shapes the way I think about art today. I’m drawn to meaning and symbolism, and I think that comes through in my lettering. Even when I’m designing a book cover or planning a lettering piece, it’s never just about aesthetics. It’s about mood, message, and how the words feel.
Tell us some of your favourite, creative professionals and inspiring places in your city!
One of the most inspiring people in my life is my coach, Dominique Falla. She’s played a huge role in pushing me past my own limits and helping me build the confidence to pursue the kind of career I actually wanted, not just the one I thought I should have. Having someone in your corner who challenges you, holds you accountable, and believes in your vision is incredibly powerful.
What should emerging creative professionals keep in mind as they begin their design career?
Don’t wait for the perfect client, job, or moment. Create the kind of work you want to be known for and share it often. Use your day job to fund your side hustle until the timing is right. And remember: confidence comes after action. Start now, refine as you go.
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