Today we’d like to introduce you to Laura Douglas.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Laura. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I’ve always loved the idea of creating– that organic process of turning ideas into form.
After growing up in a creative home where art supplies and the outdoors were primary sources of entertainment, art naturally became a form of personal expression. As my interests evolved throughout college, I was drawn towards design because it blended both my creative passions and career goals.
Design can be systematic, refreshingly participatory and/or simply beautiful– its applications are almost endless. Though design always challenges me both artistically and intellectually, it is for those reasons that I enjoy it so much.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Working in this industry isn’t always easy, but each trial has taught me to be more open, trusting of my talent and joyful in the process. As cheesy as it may be, there’s an important metaphor I’ve learned along the way.
Creativity is like water in a well– I work at the mercy of its source. Sometimes inspiration flows so effortlessly from my mind, and I remember why I love this artsy mess in the first place. At other times, I go searching so deep for original concepts, only to find nada, and it makes me question my professional merit.
But that’s just how it is. That’s the nature of creativity– you have to work within the ebb and flow of ideas. You have to trust your mind and be comfortable with inspiration’s perfect timing.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Dougie Studio – what should we know?
Dougie Studio is a one-woman shop, specializing in illustration, branding and art direction. My projects vary and range from identity design to custom print pieces, and illustrations, to a full-scale system, approaches.
When starting a project with any client, I love to figure out what makes them click– how they think and what they’re looking to accomplish, convey and create. It’s important to understand a client’s overarching goal before beginning any visual exploration. This always gives me good roots to grow from and makes the work process much more efficient and fun.
In a general sense, I am most proud of my work that blends beauty with thoughtful resolution. These are the projects that turn out to be both visually crave-worthy and conceptually clever.
To stand out in today’s creative world, you have to listen to your gut and stick to your style. This is a principle I’ve tried to carry throughout all my work. My style is rooted in focused simplicity, by blending form with emotion and playfulness with purpose.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
In a nutshell, wit, and persistence. Design takes a lot of hard work, time and dedication.
Projects can be intimidating, but I always try to push through any initial insecurities so I can create from a space of clarity, curiosity, and imagination.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.lauracdouglas.com
- Email: laura.douglas4@gmail.com
- Instagram: lauradougie
Image Credit:
Mercedes Bleth
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