Carefully Crafted Communication

I think of design as a craft, and graphic design, as carefully crafted communication.  My job is to communicate your message effectively through a visual lens, combining text and image. 

Collaboration

One on one collaboration with clients is my No.1 priority. I work alongside you to arrive at an end product you are proud of and can own as yours.  With experience both in London and Auckland within agencies and architectural practices, I have had exposure to a wide range of projects and people, from working with large corporates, to SMEs and sole traders across differing business sectors.

My work spans a variety of aesthetics. If there is any permeance of 'style', it is a consistent finesse and attention to detail. Experienced designers are known for obsessing over detail, and I'm no exception. It's the little stuff that makes all the difference. 

Fine Arts Background

My Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Auckland focused on printmaking and sculpture and continues to influence my approach to design. Printmaking involves many techniques including the mixing of printers CMYK ink, which has 'etched' in me an understanding and love of colour relationships. Studying sculpture developed spatial and material awareness, working with wood and more recently No.8 wire. These disciplines contribute to the critical thinking and broad range I bring to finding good design solutions.

Mentoring

I currently enjoy mentoring young design students through the ArtsLab programme at the Depot Art Space, helping develop their portfolios. I have previously taught part-time at AUT with students in their last year of study, mentoring them through their final self-directed projects.

Testimonial - Erwin Van Asbeck

Depot ArtSpace runs a mentoring programme for creatives and Jill is one of our key mentors. We are extremely grateful for her invaluable insights and professional feedback for the emerging creatives on our ArtsLab programme. We want to acknowledge her wonderful ongoing contribution, giving back and supporting the creative sector in Aotearoa to thrive.

Erwin van Asbeck, Creative Engagement and Development, ArtsLab.

Outdoor Pursuits

I have a love of sailing that goes back to childhood, and had the experience not so long ago of being able to skull the family yacht the ‘Odtaa’ through becalmed waters to slide quietly into an anchorage late at night, after a brisk afternoon sail.

I have consistently been a commuter cyclist, but more recently I’ve discovered how liberating it is to travel long distances by bike. I have now ridden the length of New Zealand, following the Tour Aotearoa route from Cape Reinga to Bluff, and I’m looking forward to discovering more of New Zealand under pedal power.  

These two pursuits go together – bringing the satisfaction of arriving at a destination under your own steam, working with and embracing the elements.

Dinghies - by Julian Godwin

The concept of the flarebow dinghy was developed during the 1960's by my late father Julian. They are for the connoisseur who delights in a shapely and useful plywood dinghy. Dinghies range in size from 1.82 to 3.65m and are tried and proven in all kinds of sea conditions over fifty years. Designed primarily for easy rowing – especially when heavily laden – the dinghies can also be used with outboard motors, and some have centreboards and mast steps set up for sailing.  Plans are available for several models, please click the 'Go to dinghy page' for more information.