29 September 2022

How did you find the jump between being a student versus industry work?
It wasn’t an easy one and I miss studying so much. Despite being as prepared as I was, I don’t think anyone can truly be prepared for that jump.

Who inspires you in your practice?
Wim Legrand is my ultimate art crush.

A favourite Open Window memory?
I have too many favourite memories to choose just one…. but probably running orientation for the first year when I was in my third year. It was a really fun time!

Do you have any advice for an up-and-coming creative?
Take chances. Try new things, especially mediums. Keep on creating always.

What is your favourite spot to work in besides your desk at work?
I have a chair in my room right next to my massive fish tank and I like to sit there with my feet up, watching the fishies.

Favourite coffee brand/supplier?
Ricoffy haha.

What is one thing about studying that you miss the most?
I miss how much freedom we got with the briefs we were given. The briefs were very structured but still gave you room to play and explore unlike a lot of client briefs that come into an agency when you are at a junior level. Also the social life. It’s so hard to make plans with friends as an adult.

What is a work mantra of yours?
I wish I had one but I don’t…

How do you keep yourself motivated to stay creative?
I don’t think it’s anything special that I do to keep myself motivated, it’s more just the driving passion within me to create.

What is an unpopular opinion you have?
Despite having bananas show up in my work quite often. I hate them.

What is a dream you are still working toward?
Having my artwork shown in more exhibitions.

What was your major, and are you still working in that field?
In my third year, I double majored in Communication Design and Illustration. I went on to do my honours in Illustration. Currently, I am working at an agency doing very little illustration, a lot of design work and a fair amount of animation.

Where do you currently work?
Promise Group in Bryanston, Johannesburg.

Do you prefer online or in-person work?
In-person, I love talking to people to help get the creative juices following.

Your go-to creative snack?
Pretzels, dipped in condensed milk, dipped in 100s & 1000s sprinkles.

How do you get past a creative block?
You just have to push through it and find a new way to get inspired.

Follow Jade Rawson
@boringjade