What is your role at Designlogic?

I am an Art Director at Designlogic, where I lead a team of designers and video editors. I work closely with my creative director and copywriters to deliver successful campaigns across a variety of platforms and channels. My role is varied and challenging, which I enjoy.

What were your first creative experiences? How did you become interested in design?

I have always had a natural inclination for creativity and problem-solving. One of my earliest creative experiences was playing with our old Polaroid camera. I would take photos of anything and everything, and I still enjoy doing that today. I also loved to draw, which naturally led me to be interested in design at school and college.

What do you love about design?

I am passionate about the creative process. I love the idea that we can take a problem and a blank canvas and go anywhere we want. I am always excited and a little bit terrified at the beginning of each project, because I don't know where it will lead. But I also love the buzz, the challenges, and the thrill of designing and crafting something new.

What is your process for coming up with new ideas?

Once I have read the brief and understood the problem, I’ll do some research—both written and visual. A thesaurus is often a good place to start. I look for words and patterns that can help define a story, tagline or approach. This is what I call the “gathering phase” which is a super important part of my process. If I can, I will then take a break from the project and give my thoughts time to mingle. Often, when I come back to it, ideas will start to form and that’s when I begin the idea generation phase.

Who/what do you admire right now?

I admire the work of Jessica Walsh and her agency &Walsh. I love the attitude and vibrancy of their work. It's got a certain substance I like.

What are your favourite types of projects to work on?

I love working on big, complex branding and campaign projects. I enjoy the challenge of simplifying complex ideas into something that is both visually appealing and effective. I also enjoy the process of creating a mark, visual language, or campaign that is cohesive and tells a story.

What hobbies or interests do you have outside of work?

I love spinning tunes on my decks, capturing moments with my camera, and supporting my beloved West Ham.

Tell us about a recent book, podcast, TV series or movie that you recommend.

I recently read Branding: In Five and a Half Steps by Michael Johnson and I really enjoyed it. Johnson does a great job of breaking down the subject matter into easy-to-understand components.

I also recently started watching the TV show The Resort. White Lotus meets The Goonies. I'm really enjoying it so far and highly recommend it.

What in your life gives you the most energy?

Numerous things. Creativity feeds my desire to want to try new thing. My kids give me the energy to better myself. And lastly, Redbull. If I am feeling flat, that is where I am at!

Five minutes with… Andy