Gerald B.

Graphic Designer, Art Director, Illustrator

As a creative person, I've been drawing since I could first hold a crayon. I love creating beautiful and startling images, by hand and on computer. In my work I focus on originating creative concepts and conceptual visuals that communicate in an eye catching way, without even saying a word. I’ve been called different, funny, strange, shocking and NICE! But in fact I’m just unique, like you. I believe honesty saves time and energy, so I usually say what I feel in order to be fully present and authentic. Which is essential for effective creativity and working in a team. Originality stands out so I believe that the best creative communication is different and unique – to stand out from the crowd. I love creating unexpected solutions – especially those that inspire positive change. CAREER IN 30 SECONDS: After obtaining 4-year degree from Pretoria University in 1993, I secured the position of Assistant Art Director at Hunt Lascaris TBWA, Johanneburg in 1993. Then i moved on to become Art Director at Saatchi & Saatchi and Leo Burnett and Designer at Nicework in London for 2 years. After 5 years as Creative Director at Scharrer Advertising in Joburg I started Magnet DNA in 2006. I handle all design and advertising for my own clients and have 2 programmers who assist with web based work. I have also been freelancing at agencies like Draft FCB, MC Saatchi Abel and 99Cents. Accounts I have worked on include BBC London, Prince Charles Cinemas London, 3i Europe, Vodacom, Cell C, VISA, SA Post Office, Old Mutual and The Times. My creative work has won me the following awards: An INMA (International News Media Association) Award in 2011 for a print and outdoor campaign to launch The Times Newspaper in south Africa; Second place in the Grolsch Creative Headspace competition at Design Indaba 2012; Silver Quill ad of the month for a Salvation Army print ad and Western Cape winner in the Omnigraphics Design on the Move competition.