Meet the Designers: Elissa
We’ve already introduced you to some of the people behind the music, but what about the people who give that music its visual identity?
From the artwork you see on streaming platforms to the visuals that help shape an artist’s identity, graphic design plays a huge role in how music is presented, discovered and remembered. In a crowded industry, thoughtful artwork can be just as important in catching a listener’s attention as the music itself.
So, this week, we’re switching things up and turning the spotlight onto our graphic design team.
In this edition of Meet the Team, we’re getting to know Elissa, one of our in-house graphic designers, and taking a closer look at her role at Ameritz, the creative process behind her work, what inspires her and, of course, which project has been her favourite so far.
Elissa’s work with Ameritz has spanned countless genres, artists and projects, playing a key role in some of the label’s most exciting releases. Her work also featured on our first step back into physical media, with the release of London-based jazz pianist Greg Foat’s vinyl EP Spider Plant Blues, followed by his albums The Rituals of Infinity and 6 Days in Leysin, all featuring artwork created by Elissa.
From designing release artwork to developing visuals that bring an artist’s music and identity to life, both digitally and physically, Elissa gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the creative side of Ameritz and the people helping to shape how our releases are seen.
1. What's your name, role at Ameritz and how long have you been with us?
I'm Elissa and I've been a graphic designer at Ameritz for over 6 years.
2. What inspired you to get into graphic design, and what is the best part of your role at Ameritz?
I have always known I wanted to work in the design industry. I love the creative freedom the role provides and being able to take an idea and turn it into something visual.
3. What does a typical day look like for you as a graphic designer at Ameritz?
Day-to-day I create artwork and promotional material for our in-house producers, and occasionally I will work on creating physical vinyl covers for the range of brilliant artists who are signed with us. My latest piece was for jazz-pianist Greg Foat, alongside designing his artwork for his two previous albums with us, 6 Days in Leysin and The Rituals of Infinity. Greg is always a pleasure to design for!
4. What has been your favourite piece of artwork or project to produce at Ameritz, and what made it your favourite?
I can’t pick a single favourite piece because every time I am working on a digital or vinyl cover it feels like my favourite. I really enjoy listening to a musician’s work, finding out how they see it in visual way and then helping to bring that to life. Plus seeing something I have been working on digitally, in physical form too, is really rewarding!
5. Is there a type of design technique or skill you'd like to become better at, or are currently working towards?
I am always working to familiarise myself with the latest softwares and updates to make sure I’m making the most of my tools. In the future I’d love to brush up further on motion graphics to bring some of my static designs to life.
6. What kind of project briefs do you find the most exciting to work on?
I enjoy briefs that give me enough direction to understand the overall vision, but still leave room for creative freedom. I particularly like being asked to use interesting or unusal sources of inspiration and figuring out how to interpret it in my own way.
7. Where do you get your creative inspiration from when you're starting on a new project?
I start by getting familiar with the musician’s brand, then look beyond design to photography, music, fashion and everyday life for inspiration. I also like experimenting with new techniques and styles. Sometimes the best ideas come from playing around and seeing what works.
8. What do you think is one of the biggest challenges you've faced as a designer?
I think one of the biggest challenges is learning to step away and not overthink it. Because a lot of my work is subjective, sometimes self-doubt can creep in but learning to trust the process and knowing when a piece is finished is something I've got much better at.
9. Are there any design trends, styles or techniques that you're particularly enjoying working with at the moment?
I'm really enjoying experimenting with interesting textures and unexpected compositions. I think combining digital elements with more traditional or imperfect-looking textures can give the artwork a more unique feel.
10. If you could go back and give yourself one piece of advice when you were starting out in graphic design, what would it be?
Don't be afraid to experiment or start over!
Thanks to Elissa for answering our questions!
Would you like to own one of her designs on vinyl, alongside some equally stunning music? Check out our vinyl releases below and add them to your collection today!
Greg Foat
6 Days in Leysin - Buy Here
The Rituals of Infinity - Buy Here
The Lower Angel Band
All in - Buy Here
Jackson Mathod
Studio Natives Vol.1 - Buy Here
