Discover the interview of Stella Dimitrakopoulou:
How did you become designer?
I believe my journey into becoming a designer was greatly influenced by my upbringing and environment. Growing up, my father, who is an architect, exposed me to the world of design from a very young age. I remember spending countless hours in his studio, watching him sketch out blueprints and bring ideas to life.
From the time I could hold a pencil, I found myself drawn to drawing and creating. Whether it was doodling on scraps of paper or designing imaginary people with my brushes, I was always exploring my creative side.
As I got older, my passion for design only grew stronger. I found myself constantly seeking out opportunities to learn and expand my skills, whether through formal education or self-directed projects. I immersed myself in art classes, studied design principles, and experimented with different mediums and techniques.
Throughout this journey, I’ve come to realize that design is not just a career for me, but a way of life. It’s about problem-solving, creativity, and making a meaningful impact on the world around us. And while my father’s influence undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping my path, my love for design is ultimately a reflection of who I am and what I’m passionate about.
Today, as I pursue opportunities in the field of design, I carry with me the lessons and inspiration I’ve gained from my father and my own experiences. I’m excited to continue growing and evolving as a designer, and to contribute my unique perspective to the world of creativity and innovation
How would you define your vision of design, your style?
My vision of design is deeply rooted in the belief that design has the power to create positive change in the world. I see design not just as a tool for aesthetics, but as a means to address social issues and promote ethical responsibility. My style is heavily influenced by this perspective, focusing on creating designs that serve a greater purpose and contribute to making the world a better place.
Central to my approach is the concept of ethical design for social responsibility. This means that I strive to consider the impact of my designs on society and the environment, ensuring that they align with values of sustainability, inclusivity, and fairness. Whether it’s designing products, graphics, or experiences, I aim to incorporate elements that support these principles and contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future.
One of the hallmarks of my style is infusing everything with a positive vibe. I believe that design has the ability to evoke emotions and inspire action, and I intentionally incorporate elements that convey optimism, joy, and hope in my work. Whether through vibrant colors, playful typography, or uplifting imagery, I aim to create designs that resonate with people on an emotional level and leave a lasting impression.
Additionally, I approach design with an artistic sensibility, embracing creativity and innovation in my process. I believe that great design is not just functional, but also beautiful and expressive. Whether it’s through unique visual compositions, intricate patterns, or bold typography, I strive to bring an artistic flair to my work that engages and captivates audiences.
Overall, my vision of design is rooted in using creativity as a force for good. By combining ethical principles, positivity, and artistic expression, I aim to create designs that not only look good but also contribute to meaningful change in the world.
For the future, what are your professional projects?
“In the future, my professional projects are driven by a multi-faceted approach to design that encompasses a variety of sectors, from socially conscious brands to big trade corporations, and even illustrating children’s books.
While my passion for designing for NGOs and socially aware brands remains strong, I am equally enthusiastic about collaborating with larger corporations to infuse their branding with elements of social responsibility and sustainability. Through these collaborations, I aim to create designs that not only enhance market appeal but also promote awareness and inspire positive action among consumers.
Furthermore, my love for illustrating children’s books is a significant aspect of my professional aspirations. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about using illustration to bring stories to life and captivate young imaginations. I am dedicated to creating illustrations that not only entertain but also convey meaningful messages and inspire curiosity and empathy in young readers.
By integrating my diverse interests and skills in design, I envision projects that not only span various industries but also cater to different audiences. Whether it’s designing for a socially conscious brand, collaborating with a retail giant, or illustrating a children’s book, my overarching goal remains the same: to use design as a powerful tool for positive change and creative expression.
What do you like the most in your job?.
One of the aspects I treasure most about my job is the opportunity to creatively problem-solve and bring ideas to life. Design allows me to exercise my creativity and imagination on a daily basis, whether I’m conceptualizing a new brand identity, crafting engaging visuals, or illustrating a story. This creative freedom is incredibly fulfilling and keeps me energized and inspired.
Moreover, I deeply appreciate the impact that design can have on people’s lives. Whether it’s through a visually striking advertisement that captures attention, a user-friendly website that enhances the online experience, or an emotionally resonant illustration that touches hearts, I love knowing that my work has the power to evoke emotions, spark conversations, and drive positive change.
Additionally, I value the collaborative nature of my job. Working alongside diverse teams and clients allows me to gain new perspectives, learn from others, and broaden my horizons. The synergy that comes from bouncing ideas off one another and collectively striving towards a shared goal is both rewarding and enriching.
Overall, the combination of creativity, impact, and collaboration makes my job incredibly fulfilling and enjoyable. Each day presents new challenges and opportunities for growth, keeping me engaged and excited about the work I do.
