There's always been a debate about the distinction between art and design. Where does one end and the other start? Is it simply a matter of the designer being briefed, and producing work for a client, against the artist who is self-creating. But what about patronage of the arts? Artists are often commissioned, wheras I know as a designer, I sometimes produce designs for no particular purpose – simply because I am taken by a certain image or colour or font.
It's a bit of a minefield to categorise. Personally, I see myself as designer/artist. I produce designs, lllustrations, prints, drawings – some of which are to an external brief and some are self-commissioned. I try not to worry too much about the label.
I am currently partaking in a year-long part-time 'Defing Studio Practice' course at the Newlyn School of Art in Cornwall. This has helped me to produce a body of work around a certain theme. Hopefully, with the help of mentoring from practising artists, this will culminate in an exhibition sometime next year.
I have a small art studio in Macclesfield called Twentysevenb, which I share with two other artists and is my space for experimenting with, and discovering, new media in which to express visual ideas.