Meet Christopher Knowles

Today we’d like to introduce you to Christopher Knowles.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Christopher. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
My story began in my 20’s pursuing a self-taught journey as an artist. Later in my 20’s, I moved to NYC and found a spark in graphic design. From there, I attended school for design, returned to NYC and worked at some reputable studios and companies.

After some time in NYC, I longed to return to Atlanta and be part of the vibrant creative culture here. I decided to open up my own design practice and began pursuing work independently. Over time, I also began working as a design professor and opened a design-focused nonprofit.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
LOTS of sacrifice – relationships, financial security, long work hours and competitive environments. As you grow as a designer, you become accustomed to people rejecting your work or not understanding your ideas. You have to grow strong in the face of rejection. However, the journey, the ups and downs make it all worth it and along with the setbacks, wonderful successes show themselves.

Alright – so let’s talk business. What else should we know about you and your career so far?
My company is called (Bureau) Christopher Knowles. I’m a one man design studio (I had a small staff that I had to let go due to the onset of COVID). I specialize in graphic design and mainly focus on work in the cultural sector, small business, and publishing fields. I am known for a playful, innovative, and conceptually driven form of design and pair with clients who enjoy pushing the envelope. I do not follow trends and I like creating work that makes you really consider the message. I am most proud of being in business for eight years now.

I also recently founded a nonprofit called Practise Makes Practice. We are here to help people realize how design can be a tool for joy in their lives…a form of intentional self-awareness, voice, and empowerment free of commercial interest. We are not even one year old and the pandemic has really thrown a curveball at our launch year. We are taking 2020 to work on foundational components.

What is “success” or “successful” for you?
I define success by how much fun I’m having in my life. Success is following my intuition against all odds and living with integrity. I think this allows for an abundant and exciting life.

Contact Info:

• Address: 328 West College Avenue
  Decatur, GA 30338
• Website: www.christopher-knowles.com
• Phone: 7708510754
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: @christopherknowles
• Other: practise-practice.org

Image Credit:
All work copyright (Bureau) Christopher Knowles

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