Opportunities don’t always come knocking; sometimes you have to kick down the door.
Growing up, my dad was a huge marketing wiz and an art history guru. He definitely influenced me to have a strong work ethic and make opportunities for myself. Combining my love for fine art and marketing, graphic design seemed like the natural progression. Since then, I’ve had amazing tutors at LSAD that have pushed me to constantly challenge myself.
In my third year, I moved to Rome for 6 months as a design intern. My incredible mentor, Paola, gave me opportunities to grow as a designer, but also make mistakes and learn from them. There I learned that the best design isn’t necessarily aesthetically centered — how an audience interacts with your work plays a huge role in the success of a project. Good design is like a good relationship; communication is key, great things take time and you can’t be afraid to punch above your own weight. Right now, I’m getting ready to graduate and looking for a job that will challenge me.
It’s easy to look around a room and have major design envy, but you can’t equate their finished project to your work in progress.
Don’t be afraid to step into the unknown, you can’t achieve anything in the comfort of certainty.
Be a design sponge. Taking pictures of swoon-worthy beer labels in the supermarket is worth looking like a weirdo for.
1 hard drive = 1 life saved.
Get a desk beside a power socket. Your archaic 2014 MacBook will thank you later.
Limerick is really thriving creatively, with LSAD at the heart of it. From tutors, students to buskers on the street, you get a sense that everyone is willing to collaborate, share ideas and push towards a greater goal.
After graduation, my plan is to move to London, Amsterdam, Dublin or anywhere with a thriving creative scene. The dream is to work in an agency that is friendly but really focused and passionate. Right now, I’m looking for opportunities in places that share the same values as me and where I feel I can contribute to the team. I’m a geeky fan of agencies like Here, Together, Mother, The Yard Creative and Ragged Edge to name but a few.
Still learning and improving with like-minded people! It would be amazing to work in branding for small businesses where I feel my work can have a positive impact on people's lives. I'd love to be part of a team that constantly challenges each other to redefine what’s possible. Preferably surrounded by puppies.
Hire me and I’ll help you survive the apocalypse.
Instagram: @clairedillondesign