We caught up with Outfit Product Designer, Jahl Herapath and chat about how automation is changing the role of the designer, and how learning to code is a step in the right direction to staying relevant; finding an interest in something other than design, and gaining experience and experiences by working overseas.
What are some of your earliest creative memories and what lead you into design?
When I was younger I entered an art competition for NAIDOC week. I made some last minute changes to the thing I was working on and went on to win a prize. I think I was always into design there was just never a support network that pushed me in the right direction. The schooling system definitely needs more support for the creative industry, something there is not right.
Where did you study and what were some of your first jobs?
Honestly I jumped around quite a bit trying to find what I liked. I studied Graphic Design at TAFE, Marketing and Advertising at Uni then transferred to Web Development before finishing. In the end I think I came out with a more diverse skillset that I can apply to any situation. My first few jobs were at some smaller studios. It was a great experience learning time management and how to deal with clients in person.
What advice would you give students starting out?
Get an interest in something other than design. I think the more you can separate work from pleasure the better your ideas will become. Also stop worrying about your work being perfect, if it were that easy there would be nothing to look forward to. There are soo many resources on the internet that all you really need to do is put your mind to it and get started.
Who are your top five design crushes right now?
Metalab- metalab.co
Gretel - gretelny.com
Superimpose - superimpose.global
Random - random.studio
DIA - dia.tv
I think the more you can separate work from pleasure the better your ideas will become.
Where do you think design is heading in the next five years and how will you adapt?
With all the improvements in technology and automation I think the role of a designer is definitely going to change. Designers should be thinking about simplifying their process, solving problems before innovation. I think in any profession you have to stay relevant so the more you can learn the better. Understanding or learning code is a step in the right direction.
What's on the cards professionally and personally in the next 12 months?
I have a few side projects in the works and am currently going traveling overseas for a few months. Should be a nice break, eventually, I want to work overseas. I think there are some amazing people out there and it would be a great learning experience working alongside some bigger teams.
