about
I have been working as a freelance graphic designer since 1989. I specialise in printed publicity for funded arts organisations, but I also do music packaging, identities, web sites, books, journals and programmes. between 2001 and earlier in 2009 Helen Colledge worked with me, and contributed to the designs you see here; I am back working solo as she is concentrating on her painting - see www.fellpainter.co.uk.
Originally, I was based in Manchester; I moved to Sedbergh, in the countryside between the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales, in 2002. Though peaceful, Sedbergh is near to main-line trains and the M6 motorway, so it is easy for me to visit clients.
I am not a fashion victim, but my design is up-to-date. I understand the need to distinguish a design from everyone else's and I am able to do this without resorting to gimmicks. While I am creative enough to tackle the wildest brief, I never let the design obscure your message. I understand the mechanics of print very well; I can advise you on the best formats and production methods. My grasp of grammar, style and spelling, and my proofreading ability, are exceptional for a graphic designer.
I have a thorough approach and deal openly with clients; I believe these two factors explain why I have been able to build long-term relationships with organisations across England including Northern Broadsides Theatre Company (1994-present), Manchester Jazz Festival (1996-present) and Birmingham Jazz (1997-2008).
Most of my work uses vector-based illustration and graphics. I also use photography (my own, but I understand stock photography if there is a need and the budget for it) and text-based designs.
I am a musician, DJ and artist as well as a graphic designer, so I understand the needs of artists and arts organisations very well. I am a passionate explorer and observer of the open country in which I live, and this has had a big influence on my work in the last four or five years.