Aaron Garcia, current BA (Hons) Visual Communication student, chats to us about his playful practice, how his peers help him to create and his enjoyment of having the space to experiment in his practice...
What do you specialise in and what are you working on at the moment?
I would say I specialise in design with a combination of illustration. Anything in the realm of book covers, posters and more recently packaging design, would fall under my practice. I’m currently working on creating a hypothetical make-up brand called ‘frolic’ which includes a lot of fun product photography, packaging design and prop making. I really love creating work with a playful sensibility.
Image: Courtesy of Aaron Garcia
What does a typical day/week as a BA (Hons) Visual Communication student involve?
Lots of visual research but also loads of practical stuff too! It’s hard to plan a week because of how organically new ideas and approaches will come to you. In an ideal world (currently limited because of Covid-19 restrictions) it also involves spending time with course mates in the studio, creating for personal projects and spending time with my pals!
Image: Courtesy of Aaron Garcia
What advice would you give to someone considering studying BA (Hons) Visual Communication at University?
Don’t be precious about what your specialism is! You get shown so many different mediums and techniques when you first start Visual Communication, and you might realise you love something you hadn’t previously considered doing. Before university, I thought my specialism was photography and would have never thought I would end up designing prop cereal boxes for a makeup brand. Also, really embrace the studio culture! Without it, some of my most successful projects would have been completely different!
Image: Courtesy of Aaron Garcia
What was your route to University - what did you study before starting University? Did you always have an interest in BA (Hons) Visual Communication?
Originally, I applied for courses such as Graphic Communication and Graphic Design, but Visual Communication struck a chord with me the most as it allows you to explore a range of different creative approaches – and I was right. I think perusing the D&AD Awards was pivotal in generating my interest in visual communication as I was always so fascinated by the different ways people were able to communicate ideas.
Describe yourself in three words.
Friendly, Extroverted, Loud.
Header Image: Courtesy of Aaron Garcia