Dave Sedgwick, 999 Design

Dave Sedgwick came in to Stockport College to give us a lecture on how he got into design. Dave currently works at 999 Design. I have looked at their work on a number of occasions, and I have been wondering if I should try and arrange a portfolio viewing with them. Which I will be sending an email shortly to try and organize one. Dave first started out studying Graphic Design at Manchester Metropolitan University on a D&AD course. Dave had two placements before he left university, one at Flux magazine and one at Splinter. After setting up his final show at university, he got approached by the design agency Dinosaur. After Dinosaur Dave got a job at TWC, but got made redundant at 2003. Dave freelanced for a whilst then in 2006 got a job at 999 Design.

Dave made one point clear, be serious about design. He asked the question what would you spend your last five pound one, Creative Review or a pint at your local. I know which mine would be. Grafik. Dave mentioned emailing design agencies now, before you leave university. Get your foot in the door know. Ask questions, ask about placements.

Dave talked about how everyday life to life was run inside 999 Design. Dave covered talking to clients, chasing up bills, talking to printers. Which was a valued input as not a lot of designers talk about the running of the company. Dave touched upon the idea of having a strong portfolio. Making it liquid for different design agencies, meaning you could take work out and add work in for different agencies. Making it stronger for each agencies.

www.designbydave.co.uk