Dutch graphic design graduate student Patrick Rijks got in touch with Blank for an interview about the creative practice and the design scene in Portugal. He asked pertinent questions and the Blank answers follow:
Can you give us a small introduction of yourself?
I’m a designer and art director at Blank, working for private clients and collaborating with design studios. Blank independent design consultancy focuses on making tailored projects, approaching each one individually, with a concept oriented, analytical thinking mind. By filling the blanks with fresh, provocative ideas, Blank intends to bring content into the table and create messages that will resonate.
In general, there are too many designers and agencies. What makes your studio successful and what has been the biggest challenge?
The main challenge when you start out has to do with creating a good client portfolio. In the beginning, self-initiated projects can build up a bridge to create a solid client base. Creating work that answers the client’s needs and is also relevant in the wider design context can make you an asset and a reliable reference. Drive, good work ethics and maintaining sustainable relationships with clients and collaborators are imperative in a practice that is directed to the people.
Who are your typical clients?
I’ve been working in a variety of projects for a variety of clients, from smaller to bigger structures. That’s what keeps it interesting for me, as every project is a new challenge.
Which client or project has been the most successful or enjoyable?
Behind every project there’s a story. Whenever I look into a project, I always remember the creative process, the project development, its little idiosyncrasies, the collaboration with client/partners, the circumstances that unfold during the course of the project and the solutions you find along the way to try to make it work. I enjoy all stages of the creative process when developing a project and never only see the outcome result. Recently, the Blank projects for which I’ve developed a custom typeface have been very well received and a pleasure to create.
Continue reading →
