Hello MLE,

As you know, I really enjoy going to Central St Martin’s to give the occasional graphic design workshop and when I am there, I cannot help but compare this school to Vancouver’s big art and design school, Emily Carr, where we went. Though so much is the same, so much has also changed since the olden days when we were studying, about a million years ago now.

In particular, there has always been a lot international students, but now they seem to be from a much more broad array of countries, which is amazing. So many students from countries all over the world. Also, there are so many more openly transgender students, which is also amazing. Queer and trans terminology is always changing, which shows how much things are progressing. 

I know that I am comparing London today with Vancouver in the past, but I do think that the times they are a changin, and it’s so great to see when it is for the best.

Suzan

Hi MLE,

So exciting to get this in the post: a gift of original drawings from our friend and client, Brigitte. They are of costume designs from the musical Oklahoma. So gorgeous.

mothandrust.co.uk/brigittereiffenstuel

Suzan

Hello MLE,

I know that you are nosy like I am and love a snoop into someone's house or studio. I just read an article about famous artists studios you can visit. So, noted. I've only been to Barbara Hepworth's studio in St Ives (image above). It has been left painstakingly exactly as she had left it the day she died - including the date on the wall calendar. 

What I find interesting is that artists tend to have their studios a part of their homes, and tend to live there for many many years. Designers, on the other hand, tend to have their studios away from their homes, and tend to be much more transient. 

For me, where I work is really important. I am fortunate to have my own studio at the top floor of my house, where I love to work, as I can really concentrate. It is so quiet, peaceful and comfortable. However, sometimes it can be too much so! Therefore, I also have a shared desk space, for the community aspect. Finally, I find I am also really productive working in hotel bars or restaurants. I am quite familiar with the hotels of London, though I've never actually stayed in any of them!

9 Famous Artists' Studios You Can Visit

Studio Culture

Suzan xx

Hello MLE,

Was cleaning out my computer and found a link to this classic blog post. It is over two years old now, but still good! 

20 Things You Should Never Say to a Graphic Designer – But Probably Do.

I have heard every one of them from clients many times, as I am sure most designers have. It doesn't bother me too much however, because I am also guilty of saying many of these things to my poor designers! It is okay. No one is perfect. Not everyone is born as an experienced design producer, and even if you were, the design process cannot be controlled all the time. Many of these common asks are possible - granted the time and budget is available, but often this is not necessary. Creative workarounds and problem solving are usually best.

Suzan