SUN Development

I was very happy to be asked to develop a design scheme for the newly formed Scottish Upcycling Network aka SUN. I was given a blank slate, go and create ! So had to create my own brief.

I started with attempting to delineate what an upcycling network should and shouldn't be. The "shabby chic" associations, DIYness and twee "makeovers" be gone, no hand drawn elements or frouf ! As a network they would have to face these negative preconceptions time and time again. 

Positively, the network has to be about business, remaking, remodelling and creating real change in perceptions. As Ikea publicly declared, (we have hit peak production) we need set these as priorities as the planet's resources are rapidly depleting.

So, bold, positive and bright highlighting reconstruction and remaking ! I love it !

Alive "O"

Alive "O" is a new business, always great to start with a blank canvas ! They produce Kombucha infused with tea, it's a live pro-biotic drink which is said to have health giving properties - although I don't think I'm allowed to say that :) Based in Ireland - hence the name, taken from the Dubliners Song ! They aim to launch their product in local Food & Farmers market to which are enjoying a renaissance at the moment.

The font used is Museo, which was chosen for the distinctive V  - arms open and outstretched to the healing properties of nature. The artwork fizzes and looks refreshing much like the drinks themselves. Looking forward to Alive "O" being widely available soon, it is rather moreish !

Social Screen

Social Screen, educate and mentoring in documentary making for Social change. The creative direction takes it's lead from the Anarchist movement, that of rebellion and tearing down walls. In addition depicting the filmmakers lens as a modern day tool of Social Engagement. The final artwork is vibrant and engaging call to action for people wanting to know more about this subject. Fun too, love the freedom of working with splats !

Loop latest

Loop Recycling

I have been working on and off with Loop for the best part of 15 years. Together we have created everything from websites, van signage, stationery, posters, a photo journal concept, to christmas cards. Loop are great to work with, they "get design"  and understand the important role it plays in communicating their company values.

Evolving Buddhist Design

The Glasgow Buddhist Centre

I first learned to meditate @ the GBC around 20 years ago, it's therefor close to my heart ! We began our redesign around five years ago. Our initial design work was simple, bold and using only two colours. The artwork reflected a need to communicate the centre's urban environment. Images were of actual people who attended the centre and the form the design reflected the Tenement houses the centre. We created a long programme which would stand head and shoulders above all other leaflets in the display, the  cut off corner revealed a dharmachakra rising over the rooftop.

With a new Director and a pilgrimage under their belts, the centre now wanted to develop their existing design. The new artwork now became infused with reference to the "historical Buddha" and his Indian origins. The form of the programme was now a booklet;  full colour; rich imagery and had a bit of a theme. Each programme depicts an animal from the five mandalas. The Elephant represents wisdom, the Lion equanimity/enlightenment, the Horse generosity, the Peacock compassion and the Eagle fearlessness.

I look forward to the next design incarnation !

The Glad Eye from Ruby

Ruby Love Photography

I love the expression "To give someone the Glad Eye" meaning to give someone a loving look. I think this applies very well to Denise,  who set up Ruby Love Photography last year. She seems to apply her loving gaze to everything around her. Yes I've even seen her work her magic on a lamp post - setting sun, lamp post ... you get the idea !?

When we met she was unsure of what she wanted. Through a process of getting to know her unique outlook, and trying out a few mood boards & looks it quickly became clear what the final identity would look like. We took inspiration from tattoo art, a sprinkling of 50's kitsch with a contemporary finish. I love the flexibility of the design, a few colour changes or pairing with different images can create a whole new look.

Visit the Ruby Love Blog [this will open in a new window / tab]