“I wish I could paint.”

— SHAY AZZARI

Shay Azzari is a graphic designer, specialising in Collage, from Perth, Western Australia.

My design education provided me with the technical know how to make the things that I want to make. For as long as I can remember, I've wanted to produce art and graphics. The design course gave me skills in essential programs and experience in print - key components to make most things.

Shortly after graduating, an agency saw my portfolio and invited me for an interview. The position was in a very small team working under a senior designer. Initially I was pretty excited, a job in design - success. After a month or so, it became apparent that it wasn't a good fit and was pretty stressful. I was very much a junior designer and the role really was for a mid. I made the decision to leave and jumped into the abyss. Turns out getting a job in the industry wasn't super easy.

I picked up a few small freelance jobs and then eventually got a spot at a studio via a former classmate. This job was much better - I joined a team with three designers. For me, it felt much better in the early stages of my career to be around others and to grow on the job. I think initially it's easy to get disheartened (as with many job paths) but a big part of it is working out what works for you.

What do you think are the most important qualities in a graphic designer?

Great design is confident (without arrogance) and pushes forward with some awareness. I think a good designer generally gets joy from the visual. Really good designers can lead and bring a client with them.

Shay was awarded AGDA WA Student of the Year 2010 on graduation "Best in show".

To see more of Shay’s work visit his instagram

And his website