Carolyn Gavin is the principal designer for Ecojot, where she produces paper products from her Victorian house based in Toronto. Carolyn grew up in South Africa, an experience that exposed her to exotic colour, rich imagery and a dynamic culture. These early experiences shape her work even today, finding their way into her paper designs. She is also passionate about the environment and takes pride in the fact that her products are 100% post-consumer recycled. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Carolyn Gavin. She can also be found on Instagram.
Photo credit: Virginia Macdonald
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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?
I love nature, animals, travel and colour. I think my style of Illustration reflects all of these things in a fun and lighthearted way. I think my happy and joyful disposition come through in my work.
2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?
It depends on each project but I usually do a lot of research and then a lot of sketching. Sometimes I’ll use my sketches for final work or I’ll bring my ideas into Illustrator and redraw digitally.
3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?
I really respect and admire the art director who can clearly communicate their vision to you, and at the same time, give you creative freedom to explore that vision with an open mind. After all, they come to you for your style and for your ideas to grow from theirs. I’m lucky enough to have worked with some really great art directors like how I describe, and the experience and outcome was truly magical!
4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?
Its tough sometimes but often it will be a build up of sketching ideas on paper, painting a bit, then going for a walk, contemplation and then maybe back to it. It’s a personal journey that is constantly swaying with the wind.
5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
Hard work, soul searching and trying to stand apart from so much stuff out there. My advice is to find your own unique voice and work as hard as you possibly can to develop that style. Try to be as original as possible.