Hot New Things — Demi Garland, Wintec

Our 2017 Hot New Things series continues today – it’s an opportunity to profile a selection of some of the top design grads coming out of our tertiary institutions. Our final recent design graduate for this year is Demi Garland from Hamilton’s Wintec.

Demi Garland
Bachelor of Media Arts (Graphic Design)
Wintec

Hi Demi, you completed your full time studies at the end of 2016. Can you tell us what your final year’s project was about and what you focussed on?
Hi! 2016 was full of a range of projects; one in particular that stood out the most for me was my lingerie packaging “on.off.” on.off lingerie was conceptually built around the idea: “made to be taken off” influenced by the thought process that lingerie is just as good, if not better, off. The minimalist identity of the product resulted in a tasteful and chic design. This was further enhanced by the use of colour, typography and intertwined die cuts.
How has what you’ve recently been working on influenced your design process, and what momentum does it bring to your practice?
One of the main things that became clear to me while I was working on this project is the importance of a solid concept. I developed a better understanding of the need to refer back to the concept constantly through each step of the design process. I loved seeing the project come together after working through each separate challenge. It’s given me the confidence that I can take on projects in the future from concept to final outcome.

What were some of your most exciting discoveries?
Finding alternate ways to engage the target audience through interactive dimensional design. This included the use of text placement, intertwined die cuts, and subtle use of colour, culminating in a piece which the viewer could interact with. The satisfaction I felt from this result inspires me to want to produce an interactive element in future projects.
And also some of the challenges along the way?
An initial challenge was coming up with a strong concept that also fit the brief within an appropriate timeframe. This caused a ripple effect and, when I arrived at the refinement stage, I had to prioritise what fine-tuning to proceed with in the limited time remaining. While I was very pleased with the result, it did teach me that I needed to be more efficient in my decision-making.
What did you love doing most?
I loved being able to work with technology I had not previously used such as the laser cutter (and in another project the vinyl cutter). The resulting die cut effect had an aesthetically pleasing impact and was also highly interactive when pulling the boxes apart to “undress” the lingerie inside.
Where do you go to find inspiration (websites, resources, designers, etc)?
I aim to keep an open mind with my research as it really depends on what the project is. My go-to’s for inspiration are Designspiration and Behance, but I use the internet, books, magazines, the environment and my peers on a regular basis to further inspire me.

Why did you choose to study at Wintec, and what do you feel you can take away now that you’ve completed your course?
I chose to study at Wintec because the smaller, close-knit community appealed to me, and I had been informed that tutors were readily available to help with student’s success. I also wanted to learn in a hands-on environment where I could start to learn practical skills immediately. Wintec was cost effective as I was living in the Hamilton region.
I gained a lot throughout the three years at Wintec. I really developed my creative side, which I didn’t realise I had, and have seen myself continue to grow in this area. I have also developed software skills, persistence and the importance of time management.
Where to next for you? What does 2017 hold?
I am currently living in Tauranga, working at an awesome design store, Paper Plane. I intend to start developing my own brand and look into freelancing opportunities. Alternatively, I could see myself in a small design studio surrounded by a great creative team where the possibilities for further growth were endless!
To see more from Demi visit: https://www.behance.net/demi_garland
Or you can contact her via: hello.demigarland@gmail.com