The art of design and writing: My journal of discovery and education

Why?

Starting this journal is something I’ve thought about for a while. As a graphic designer who’s spent years crafting visual identities, shaping brands, and diving deep into everything from digital design to packaging and advertising, I’ve realised there’s a lot I want to share. But it’s not just about sharing what I know, this journal is also about pushing myself to grow, particularly in areas where I feel less confident. Writing has always been one of those areas. It’s something I’ve struggled with, and I know the only way to improve is to practice. So, this journal will serve as both a creative outlet and a personal challenge to develop my voice beyond the visual world.

Passion

One of the main reasons for starting this journal is my passion for graphic design and my desire to bring others into that world. I want to take a deep dive into what makes design not only functional but also impactful. Whether it’s the subtle art of typography, the psychology behind color choices, or the strategic thinking that goes into a successful brand identity, there’s so much to explore. Graphic design is often seen as just making things look pretty, but it’s so much more than that, it’s about storytelling, problem-solving, and creating experiences that connect with people. Through this journal, I hope to open up discussions on the nuances of design and share insights that will resonate with fellow designers and anyone interested in the craft.

Education

Another key aspect of this journal is education. I want to help others see the bigger picture when it comes to design, how it impacts everything from the brands we interact with daily to the advertising campaigns that shape our choices. I’ll be covering topics that not only focus on the technical side of things but also on how design influences culture and business. Whether you’re a designer looking to refine your skills, a business owner curious about branding, or someone who’s just interested in how design shapes the world, I hope this space will offer something for everyone. I aim to bring something new to the table fairly regularly, fresh insights, tips, or even breakdowns of design trends.

Motivation

Motivation is another big reason behind this journal. As much as I love design, it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day projects and lose sight of the bigger picture. By committing to writing regularly, I’m holding myself accountable to keep learning, stay curious, and engage with the wider design community. It’s about stepping back from client work and thinking critically about what I’m creating and why. It’s a space where I can reflect on what excites me about design, what challenges I’m facing, and what I want to explore next. And hopefully, in doing so, I’ll inspire others to do the same.

Experimentation

I’m also hoping this journal will give me a chance to experiment with different ideas. In design, we often work within constraints, client briefs, brand guidelines, tight deadlines. While those constraints can fuel creativity, they can also limit exploration. This space is going to be more open, where I can freely explore the intersections of design with other interests, like technology, culture, and even personal development. I want to push the boundaries of what I think I know and, in the process, bring new perspectives to the forefront. Whether it’s analysing the latest packaging designs, reflecting on how digital design is evolving, or discussing the power of publication design in the digital age, this journal will allow me to explore areas that fascinate me and share those insights with you.

Growth

Ultimately, this journal is about growth, both in terms of design knowledge and personal development. I know writing is a skill I need to work on, and while I’m much more comfortable behind a design program than a keyboard, I believe this process will make me a better designer. Writing forces me to slow down, to think critically about the choices I make in my work, and to articulate ideas that are often instinctive. By translating those instincts into words, I hope to sharpen my understanding of design and become more intentional in my creative process. And if along the way, I can offer some value to others, whether through design tips, industry insights, or just shared experiences, that’s a win in my book.

Commitment

So, here’s to starting something new, to stepping outside my comfort zone, and to sharing the journey with you. Every week, I’ll be bringing fresh content, something worth diving into for anyone passionate about design or simply curious to learn more. This is as much about personal development as it is about contributing to the design community. I’m excited to see where this journal takes me, and I hope you’ll join me on the ride.