Freelance designer / Graphic Designer at VROBI Sports
kirstiniverson.myportfolio.com
How would you describe your work?
My work is about taking a critical view of social, criminal, and natural concepts and bringing them to light through imagery. Often referencing true crime, my work explores the varying relationships between intricacy and darkness. Having subjects as diverse as social media, otherworldly life forms, and DNA, my work reproduces familiar visuals arranging them into new conceptually layered installations. Although there may not always be material similarities between the different projects, they are linked by recurring formal concerns. Each project often consists of a range of different media, grouped around specific themes that I deeply connect with. During research and production, new areas of interest arise and lead to the next body of work.
How do you measure the success of your creative work?
I measure my success through my personal satisfaction and the satisfaction of my clients. Above all, I value the knowledge that I gain through researching for my projects. Each learning experience helps me reshape and perfect my strategy. This continual learning doesn’t just come from what I’ve read or observed; it’s also about practical experience that I’ve gained by putting my strategy to work and witnessing the result.That means that even failure is necessary in order to achieve a certain level of learning and knowledge. Learning from my failures has actually become part of the necessary process for achieving real success. I know where to avoid the detours and speed bumps because I’ve experienced them before. As the old saying goes, “You can’t get a job without experience, but you can’t get experience without a job.” On the contrary, I believe in creating my own experiences because there’s nothing to gain if you’re stuck in neutral.
What has been your biggest career challenge to date?
Working at Michaels. Don’t ask.
How do you deal with creative burnout?
I’m a firm believer in setting a daily schedule. I tell myself that I’m not going to work past a certain point and allow myself days off to recharge. Within these parameters, I’m able to set realistic goals that are attainable and keep me motivated to see each project through.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to other creatives?
Even if you’re stuck on something you’re in the middle of, don’t abandon it all together. Take the necessary breather you need and come back refreshed. If you still don’t see anything taking shape, keep working with it. Remind yourself why you took this on, and slay!
What is an “absolute must” that gets you through the day?
My daily schedule: Chores. Self care. Create. Repeat.
What is one book you highly recommend every creative read?
NOS4A2 by Joe Hill, which is about an extreme creative. Fitting.
