My name is Colin Slack, and I'm a freelance graphic designer from Northern Ireland. I've been freelancing since 2007.
Experience
In 1996 I graduated with a GNVQ in Art and Design, an HND in Design Communications in 1999, I spent a year at college in America learning about American business in Tennessee in 1997-1998 and then studied for a BA (Hons) Degree in Graphic Design in Lancashire 1999-2001.
After graduating with my degree, I held positions within a number of companies. I was a designer within an advertising agency, a prepress operator within two printing companies, and had a placement within a local branding consultancy, and prior to that while still at university I had industrial placements in Nashville Tennessee and London England with two busy public relations and advertising agencies.
Aim
My aim has always been to provide clients with a creative, fair and effective design service, and my main body of work comes from working with schools, churches, youth groups, charities, historical groups and individuals.
I am approachable, patient, welcoming and calm, creating an environment from where I can demonstrate kindness, empathy, and goodwill to build great working relationships with my clients. I know it sounds a bit corny, but believe me, it matters.
I stay creative by asking, "what if we try this, what if we do that". There is inspiration everywhere, and I like each project to be fun and enjoyable for my clients, that's where things get creative when you're open to new design concepts and approaches. It brings a sense of excitement and anticipation into what's produced and created, gives the work that 'ah ha' element.
Freelance
In 2007 having worked for six years within other design and print companies I identified a need for a new creative challenge in my life, to go freelance!
I had learnt a lot from the companies I'd worked with but always felt confined by the time constraints and budgets that were established to increase profits and turnover, with the quality of creative artwork in some cases being allowed to suffer.
As a creative individual I knew I could do better by working directly with clients to build lasting relationships where I could become immersed in projects, and guide clients unhindered towards clear and creative solutions.
Since 2007 I have been designing and organising the printing of small and large format print items for my clients, including books, magazines, newsletters, leaflets, flyers and posters, logos, stationery and banners as well as many other design and print items.
Every project is different and unique, and I approach each with care and attention, and provide a quote at the start before work commences, normally with a flat rate to avoid nasty surprises when it’s time to invoice.
I work with a network of top class printers who share my passion for quality, and I can always find the best print solution, turn around time and price for my clients.
