Rebecca's Design Placement Report

I joined AV Browne in August 2014 and I can honestly say that since then my outlook on design has changed dramatically. Everything from how I sketch to how I communicate my ideas verbally and how to execute ideas in a quick and efficient way has changed. Thinking, talking, sketching, speed and precision are now the corner stones of my process.

On my first day in AV Browne I had no idea what to expect. I was greeted by the friendliest bunch of people I've ever met and instantly felt at home. So far I've worked on eye and mind opening projects and gained a newfound respect for the term 'team-work'. I have found that by being put under pressure and thrown outside of my comfort zone, I have been able to manage time better and gain a lot of confidence. When I first started I couldn't even pick up the phone to ask a question, composing emails was so daunting and it's great to look back and see how far I've come.

I started my placement in one building, and will finish in another, both being very interesting locations and providing that 'alternative vibe' that all design studios I'm sure strive for. I found Bedford Street an overwhelmingly super-cool-too-cool-for-me building when I first arrived for my interview. There was a golf strip through the design floor for heaven's sake. With the red brick exposed walls, hardwood walls, a pink fridge stocked with beer and the general easy going atmosphere provided, I felt I was finally in a working environment that visually satisfied my expectations. Who wants to be an accountant anyway?

The design studio in AV Browne offers a wealth of creative opportunities. I've sculpted tiny models, constructed three metre long sign prototypes, taken photographs, storyboarded, illustrated (very excited about this one), written copy (badly) and made about 15,000 social graphics. All of which I have enjoyed working on. Before all of the madness of the day begins however tea is required and I am so grateful that I get to work a company that allows for everyone to make tea and breakfast in the morning. It's the most important meal of the day after all. The relaxed approach to routine at AV Browne is lovely and suits the nature of what we do.

The first job I was involved in that really made my jaw drop was for MAC International. MAC International was an exhibition being held that brought together designers from all around the world at the MAC Gallery. So I was brought in at the beginning of this project along with a fellow designer and we were left to our own devices to come up with ideas for the look and feel of the event. This to date is probably the most 'brand like' project I've worked on in the studio as it entailed many other aspects besides the print and digital outcome of most projects. Just a few weeks in and there I was, brainstorming with the art directors and sketching weird and wonderful campaign ideas. The MAC soon became one of my favorite clients as they allowed for the most creative intervention.

I have truly loved the time I've spent at AV Browne. The opportunities I've had and the talented people I've met has made this a great experience and I would encourage every student studying Graphic Design and Illustration to take a year out to work in the industry.

Rebecca Blair, AV Browne, 2014/15