BA Undergraduate Graphic Design Student
LOUGHBOROUGH
CARRIEONDESIGNING@OUTLOOK.COM
Hi, I'm Carrie Gill, most call me Caz.
I'm originally from the North East of England, yet currently studying Graphic Design at Loughborough University.
I love combining creativity with strategic thinking to design work that is both visually engaging and purposeful. Whether I'm developing a brand identity, experimenting with typography, or exploring hands-on creative hobbies, I'm always looking for new ways to tell compelling visual stories.
Before my current studies at Loughborough, I studied a Foundation Degree in Art & Design at Durham Sixth Form Centre in addition to Fine Art & Graphic Design at A-Level; they have been the backbone towards my evolution as an artist.
In Fine Art, I delved into various mediums and techniques, from intricate pencil sketches to expressive oil paintings, each project pushing me to refine my technical skills and expand my creative boundaries. In addition, I found this subject to support my critical thinking and has become the foundations of inspiration towards conceptual thinking.
On the other hand, Graphic Design complemented this by introducing me to digital artistry, where I mastered software tools and developed an eye for layout, typography, and visual storytelling.
My additional study in a Foundation Degree has been invaluable, reinforcing the skills and knowledge I gained during my A-levels and enabling me to explore more complex and innovative artistic expressions. Together, these educational experiences have solidified my confidence and competence as a practicing artist which I'm able to translate at University.
I see my future in design as an ongoing process of collaboration, experimentation and independent creative development. I am actively interested in working alongside established designers and other creatives, as I believe collaboration provides valuable opportunities to exchange ideas, gain new perspectives and develop a deeper understanding of the design process.
At the same time, I am keen to establish my own independent practice, using self-initiated projects to explore personal interests, develop my creative identity and take greater ownership of my ideas.
Alongside developing my creative practice, I aim to build a strong understanding of entrepreneurship and the wider business aspects of the creative industry.
In the long run... I will transfer my experience gained through industry collaboration, accompanied by self-works, ultimately using these skills to establish and manage my own design company.
My work explored Stoicism, Nihilism & Existentialism as a technique to communicate my rational muse. Artists such as Salvador Dali, Alexandra Levasseur and psychoanalysis Sigmund Freud, were firm commitments of inspiration, which overshadowed ideas throughout my artwork.
I created typographic brand identity, box art, promotional content, concept art and merchandise for a fictional indie video game which focused issues on biomodification, elitism, advancement of technology and mob mentality. Design briefs using Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator & InDesign gave me interdisciplinary knowledge through composition, colour theory, illustration, photography, photo editing and print knowledge.
If I'm not working on a module, then I'm working out!
I enjoy challenging myself both physically and creatively.
I'm passionate about the gym, particularly bodybuilding, and I love the atmosphere of old-school iron gyms where dedication, discipline, and hard work are at the heart of the culture.
Training has taught me consistency, resilience and the value of gradual progress - qualities that I bring into my design process.
Alternatively, I often escape to the Districts for hiking, where I can disconnect from screens, explore new landscapes, and find inspiration in nature.
Whether I'm pushing for a new personal best or reaching the summit of a hike, I enjoy experiences that encourage growth, perseverance, and a fresh perspective.
Miniature painting and nail art are two of my favourite creative outlets, allowing me to express my creativity through intricate detail and precision. Although they're different mediums, both rely on patience, colour theory, and fine brush control, and I enjoy applying techniques between them.
@carriepaints
CARRIEPAINTS@OUTLOOK.COM
I find it fascinating how the skills used in miniature painting translate so naturally to nail art, from layering highlights to creating depth and texture.
I also share my work on social media, documenting my progress, connecting with other creatives, and inspiring others to explore these hobbies.
Building an online community has allowed me to combine my passion for creating with visual storytelling, while continually developing my artistic skills both on and off the screen.