A junior designer who joined the Crush team as a fresh Illustration post-grad, and who’s managed to stick around ever since her 2023 ‘6 week’ summer internship, we’d like to introduce you to Naomi.
From student illustrator to designer-in-training
Graduating from Sheffield Hallam University in 2022 with an undergraduate degree in Illustration, with her university modules centred around the climate crisis, Naomi applies her skill set in editorial illustration, character design and animation to creating powerful designs, for meaningful causes.
Having taken a year out of university mid-way thanks to the Covid-19 pandemic, Naomi was keen to get into work after achieving her degree. However, it soon became obvious that many illustration jobs were freelance, whilst Naomi wanted to work in an agency setting – which was hard to break into without prior work experience.
After a period of struggle, Naomi found Crush. This venture into the world of design has seen her thrive within our team, working on branding projects, website developments, print design and social media graphics. Whilst learning much of her role in-house and on-the-job, Naomi’s illustrative skills have also proved to be a huge asset for Crush as an agency.
With the ability to create bespoke, characterful illustrations, she’s been able to take the lead on several projects where her illustrations have worked hand-in-hand with animation and graphic design.
Now, over to Naomi herself.
Q: What led you to work in design?
A: Ever since school I’ve been drawn to creative practices like textiles design, photography and fine art, but it wasn’t until I went to complete my Art Foundation course that I learnt what graphic design was.
While at university, I specialised in Illustration, which suited me because I’ve always leant towards drawing by hand.
Since working at Crush, I’ve been able to learn how to integrate these illustrative skills with our brand development projects. This has enabled me to create bespoke artwork, unique and true to each individual client’s brand.
Q: What’s your favourite part about your role at Crush?
A: I really like the variety of clients we work with. Whether it’s a global corporation, a local business or a small charity, I have the opportunity to learn to design for individual needs within various sectors.
Q: What’s your go-to playlist to play in the studio?
A: ‘Tesco Bangers’ is always a go-to, especially on a Friday.
Q: Is there something, a project or aspect of design, that you feel particularly proud of at work?
A: I contributed to the rebrand of Pooches Promise, which is a dog rehoming charity based in Romania.
Using my illustration skills, I designed a character called ‘Pooch’, which has now become the mascot for the brand. Pooch was also included in the charity’s 2024 calendar, which showcased his antics through the seasons. Honestly, I think I could draw that character in my sleep now!
Q: Having been with Crush just over a year now, what would you say your ambitions are as a designer?
A: With the help of the experienced designers at Crush, I have developed my skills in brand development, logo design and type-setting. I’d like to develop my skills in website design, too, as I’ve found it fascinating to learn.
Q: Last thing you read / listened to?
A: Butter by Asako Yuzuki & I’m listening to A LOT of Jamie XX at the moment
Q: If you could only ever eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
A: Lasagne, no doubt.
