Experimenting with different types of materials, such as wood and metal, is one outlet. Throughout my school and university years I tried out different craft projects and dabbled in building non-traditional graphic design pieces, while still keeping key design practices, such as typography and layout present. Recently I have been developing my skills with a technique called stippling, which is the process of using a pen, pencil or other media to create texture and shading just using dots. I have adapted the technique slightly, by using a wood burning tool and stippling onto wood, creating pieces with a unique look. Working on more intricate craft projects, develops my concentration and attention to detail, as the process of stippling is time consuming but allows me to zone out with some music and escape from everyday work.
Photography is another creativity booster for me. Elliot Erwitt, known for his candid black and white street photography, once said “I always make it a point to carry a camera with me at all times”, this really resonates with me as I see photo opportunities everywhere, and so a camera, whether that be on my phone or an old school 35mm camera, is something I can’t leave the house without. The more experimental side of photography also sparks an interest and keeps me on my toes.
I find going back to basics with old cameras makes you understand the digital process a lot better. With a lot of 35mm SLR film cameras they are completely manual, so you have to understand the settings and when to use them in the right conditions to create a good photo. Experimenting with darkroom techniques also broadens the knowledge and once again takes a now digital process back to a tangible entity.
