Laura Olivia is the founder of her own surface pattern design studio, based in Nottingham since 2010. Laura has worked all over the globe with a number of interior clients, as well as stationery suppliers, fashion houses and cosmetic companies. She has become renowned for using vibrant even tropical colours, a style that has become her trademark. Originally working on her own, she now has her own growing team offering a print library and pattern design service. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Laura Olivia.
Image Credit: 1) Liberty 2) Harlequin 3) Graham And Green 4) Rose And Grey 5) Osborne And Little
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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?
I would say tropical , vivid, painterly and eclectic. I love working with watercolours but often mix other techniques. I particularly love exotic and unusual flowers and plants as well as birds and other fauna.
2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?
I usually research the market first and then have a really good think about what I can use for inspiration that hasn’t been done recently.
3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?
I particularly enjoy working with my licensees, for example ‘Artistic Britain’ who are a wall art company promoting independent designers. They are really lovely people to work with and often sent me great inspiration for new work.
4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?
I find Pinterest works really well for me as I can find beautiful subject matter and organise it using the secret boards feature. I can also collate my own photographs on there and clearly see an overview of my project on a single board.
5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
I have always been very driven and that is what has got me through the tough times. I would say producing good design work is only part of running a design business and would recommend business and marketing training for anyone thinking of working for themselves. Don’t be too hard on yourself and enjoy the crazy journey.
