Local artist profile: Courtney Koop

This week we chat with local graphic designer Courtney Koop, who credits the community at the Emporium Creative Hub in Mitchell Street for being “amazing supporters” of her, particularly since starting her own business.

What motivated you to become a graphic designer?

I’ve always been creative and loved making things. As a kid, I was constantly creating, but the moment I realised I could turn it into a career was in high school.

A graphic designer visited our visual communications class, and when she spoke about her day and showed us her designs, I was inspired.

I remember thinking, “Wow, I could actually do this as my job?”

How would you describe your style?

As a brand designer, I try not to have one set style.

I really believe good design comes from the purpose behind it and what it needs to say for the business. That being said, people do often tell me my work has a clean, modern feel.

Which other designers inspire you?

Kel Lauren is a graphic designer in America, and she’s always inspired me with the way she looks at design and approaches her work.

Her exploration of different mediums is a good reminder for me to think outside the box and not get too bogged down in the computer.

I also really admire the work of DixonBaxi.

They’re a big agency in the UK, but their disruptive approach to design and the way they run their studio is something I try to bring into my own work.

Have you had any mentors over your career so far?

I’ve had many mentors.

The community at the Emporium Creative Hub have been amazing supporters of me, particularly since starting my own business.

If I’ve ever felt lost there’s always been someone in the Hub that could guide me through it or point me in the right direction.

What are some highlights or fond memories you have from your time as a designer so far?

For me, the real highlight is seeing that light switch on in someone’s eyes when we discover something about their business they’d never thought of before, or when they take the brand I’ve created and suddenly feel that confidence and excitement to put themselves out there.

Especially, when before, they’d outgrown their brand, felt embarrassed by it or were just scared to take the leap and back themselves.

How can people check out your work online?

On my website www.northboundstudio.com or on my instagram @northboundstudio_

What are you working on right now? Do you have a few projects/jobs on the go?

My biggest creative project is definitely my own business.

I’ve put a lot into building it up and shaping it into something I can be proud of.

I’ve also got a couple of brand projects coming up, including one that’s all about celebrating the regions.

As someone from a small country town, that’s something I’m really passionate about and I’m looking forward to diving into it.

What would you say to young regional aspiring designers who are thinking of making a go of the creative life?

Honestly, just go for it.

It might not be the easiest or most straightforward path, but it’s so worth it, and you’ll meet some amazing people along the way.

And, don’t be afraid to reach out to people in creative careers – I was when I was younger, but everyone I’ve spoken to has been really helpful and encouraging, and it’s made a huge difference for me.