What made you pursue a career in graphic design?
I worked for my dad’s printing company when I was at school learning about the print process also helping out with artwork. In those days, mid 80’s we designed on drawing boards, using Letraset, typesetting, airbrushing and codatrace. Having purchased an Apple Mac in 1986 my passion and understanding in graphic design blossomed and the ability for creativity and visual storytelling became addictive. The ability to communicate ideas, evoke emotions, and solve problems through design is deeply fulfilling. Perhaps it was the appeal of blending art and technology, creating something visually impactful, and helping brands come to life through thoughtful design. Graphic design also offers endless opportunities for personal expression, making it exciting and rewarding to be a part of.
Can you walk me through your design process?
The graphic design process typically follows these key steps:
1. Brief and Research: Understand the client's needs, target audience, and goals. Gather relevant information and inspiration.
2. Concept Development: Brainstorm and sketch initial ideas or concepts, focusing on visual solutions that align with the project goals.
3. Design Creation: Translate chosen concepts into digital designs using design software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, or Photoshop), refining the visual elements.
4. Feedback and Revisions: Present the designs to the client, gather feedback, and make necessary revisions based on their input.
5. Final Delivery: Once approved, finalise the design files and prepare them for print, web, or other media, ensuring all technical requirements are met.
This structured process ensures creativity is balanced with strategy, leading to effective, polished outcomes.
CREATIVE DIRECTOR STEVE SMITH
INTERVIEW WITH
Education background/ training and how did it help you become a successful designer?
I left school at 16 and started from the rock bottom, getting to understand the basics of the print process in the family printing company and design in the art studio. A few years on, I dealt with some major national companies and designed adverts and print for companies such as Jaguar cars, Rackham’s, and many more.
Although I am mostly self-taught, having a solid education and training in graphic design provides the foundation for a successful career in the field. A formal education, such as a degree in graphic design, visual communication, or a related discipline, equips you with essential design principles like typography, colour theory, composition, and layout.
What are the important aspects of branding?
Branding encompasses key elements like a consistent identity, clear purpose, audience understanding, and a unique voice that differentiates you from competitors. Authenticity, consistency, and a strong customer experience across all touchpoints are essential to building trust and lasting connections with your audience.
Your most rewarding project and why?
Over the years (38 years) there have been so many projects, looking back, working with Subaru Cars part of IM Group was a challenging yet rewarding client to have on-board. Creating artwork and print, covering brochures, warranty books, POS, signage, promotional items, and branded clothing. We worked with them for 24 years and we covered just about every marketing and promotional service for them.
What do you think the future of branding is going to be like
The future of branding will emphasize personalisation, authenticity, and values-driven connections, with brands focusing on transparency and social responsibility. As technology advances, immersive experiences like AR and AI-driven personalisation will shape memorable, interactive
How do you handle feedback from a client?
Usually, very well, it’s always good to gain feedback, however, if we have any issues, I always remind the client that they are paying for our experience, it’s our reputation, and creditability that’s important too, ending up with a good design and outcome is very important to us.
Steve Smith: Director at The Studio Group
Located in the heart of the Midlands, the historically established Wolverhampton Grand Theatre is the home to major touring productions including Musicals, Dramas, Operas, Dances and more; With audiences from across the region and beyond coming to visit this charming Theatre for top tier, quality entertainment, this venue is a must-see for anyone and everyone who is interested in the programs and shows provided.
The theatre has a maximum capacity of 1,200 people and is located on Lichfield St, Wolverhampton WV1 1DE. It is a Grade II listed building meaning that the structure of the building is deserving of government protection in order to keep the historical Victorian architecture. However, while the exterior cannot be touched, the interior of the theatre has undergone major renovations, first in 1998 and years later another one in 2014, leading it to what it is known to look like today with its royal red theme with gold accents for the interior.
The dedicated team at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre is committed to providing quality customer service and demonstrates a true passion for the arts, which greatly improves the overall theatre experience. What really sets Wolverhampton Grand Theatre apart is its impeccable attention to detail; Every event is expertly planned and executed. Regardless of the type of event, it is clear that the staff is dedicated to making each one special for anyone in attendance. This commitment to quality elevates the overall theatre experience, making each visit to Wolverhampton Grand Theatre feel special and memorable.
Spread across two levels, Stourbridge Glass Museum invites visitors to embark ona captivating journey through time. Discover the history of glassmaking inStourbridge, beginning with a 2.5D animation that illustrates life within a glasscone, along with the opportunity to sit in a glassmaker’s chair. Explore the toolsutilised by glassmakers and enjoy films that explain the production process. Afterlearning about the local glassmaking tradition, watch acclaimed contemporaryartist Allister Malcolm and his team at work in the live Hot Shop, where theirdemonstrations will captivate and enchant.
On the upper floor, guests will be amazed by an extensive collection from theinternationally significant Stourbridge Glass Collection, showcasing pieces thatare over 400 years old. Additionally, there is a series of digital interactive screensthat allow museumgoers to unleash their creativity by designing their own cameoglass, which they can then email to themselves or a friend.
Stourbridge Glass Museum is primarily operated by volunteers and does notreceive funding from local or national government sources. With operational costsexceeding £1,500 each week, there is a modest entry fee to help maintain thefacilities and update the exhibitions, which feature a diverse and extensivecollection of both historic and contemporary glass displays. Additionally, theyengage in active fundraising efforts to develop, preserve, and highlight thesevaluable treasures.
GHOST STORIES
The Grand Theatre
When Professor Goodman, arch-sceptic out to debunk the paranormal, embarks on an investigation of three apparent hauntings
Date: 01 Jul–05 Jul 2025
More Info: Event starts at: varies Tickets start from £20.00
JONNY COLE: ARMAGUDD’N
Dudley Town Hall
After amassing nearly four million views in just a couple of weeks on social media with his brilliant observations on Black Country life, Jonny Cole is bringing songs and saftness to Dudley in 2025!
Date: 04/07/25
More Info: Event starts at: 7:30pm Tickets price: £18.00
THE CLASSIC BLUES SHOW
Newhampton Arts Centre
Spend an evening in the company of this fine six-piece band to celebrate the British Blues explosion of the 1960s. From BB King to John Mayall, from Muddy Waters to Peter Green:
Date: 09/08/25
More Info: Event starts at: 7.00pm Ticket price: £13
