Why FdA Graphic & Spatial Communication?

I always thought I wanted to study graphic design, and it's my background - I studied graphic design in Brazil for a year. The course was the equivalent of a UK foundation degree and covered many fields of design, from fashion to products. Since then I always had an open mind and discovered the FdA Graphic and Spatial Communication and saw it as a great opportunity because it's a new course that is focused on what the market is expecting of designers today - the ability to work across boundaries in both 2D and 3D.

What have been the highlights in your short career so far?

Well, first of all, to be doing the course I'm doing in such a recognized institution and in a city like London is a big achievement for me. I also completed an Intermediate graphic design course at Central St Martins. And back in Brazil I won a couple of competitions, one for designing a brochure, and another for a logo design. Also, I had the opportunity to work for a personalized mat company, designing layouts for reusing material off-cuts.

What first inspired your passion for graphic & spatial design?

I think it came from the idea of working across boundaries, being still able to work with branding and identity, and the possibility that my work could take over a whole space as well as in print form was really what made me fell for it.

But perhaps the starting point was back in Brazil during some drawing lessons, where we had to draw several 3D objects/spaces using the side and top views as reference. I was fascinated by how 2D shapes come to life and how what seemed to be complicated became easy. Also I'm very hands on, and like to experiment and make models.

What are you currently working on?

I'm doing a work placement at Softroom Architects. I'm mainly working on their graphics, such as brochure, presentation boards and brand identity, but I'm also helping them with some 3D visualization for a hotel interior. It's a great experience to be working with architects and interior designers and being able to sneak in and see how they work.

What are your plans for the future?

I hope to find a job in the design field very soon, get good experience, and grow and learn more and more. One day maybe become an art director, or have my own practice, or go back to Brazil. But that's far away; who knows what will happen in meantime. So watch out for my name!

Is there anything else we should know about Ricardo Feijo?

I'm a keen observer, and have many other design interests, such as photography, product design and architecture. I like travelling and learning different cultures.