Geometry in Spiritual Art and Design
This is a REPOST of a blog I wrote in 2019 for my Master’s degree in Graphic Design. Because this is an academic article, it’s structured differently to my normal posts and includes formal REFERENCES – please don’t be alarmed! Geometry is not only associated with mathematics, art and nature. One application that I have […]
Artist Spotlight: Isabella Conticello
This is a REPOST of a blog I wrote in 2019 for my Master’s degree in Graphic Design. Because this is an academic article, it’s structured differently to my normal posts and includes formal REFERENCES – please don’t be alarmed! Isabella Conticello is a graphic designer and illustrator whose work I have encountered on Behance. […]
Artist Spotlight: Louise Nevelson
This is a REPOST of a blog I wrote in 2019 for my Master’s degree in Graphic Design. I chose to study geometry in relation to natural and man-made design. Because this is an academic paper, it’s structured differently to my normal posts and includes formal REFERENCES – please don’t be alarmed! “Some of us […]
The Geometry of Textiles
This is a REPOST of a blog I wrote in 2019 for my Master’s degree in Graphic Design. I chose to study geometry in relation to natural and man-made design. Because this is an academic paper, it’s structured differently to my normal posts and includes formal REFERENCES – please don’t be alarmed! In her symposium […]
The Art of Geometry: Where Mathematics and Creativity Collide
Geometry is usually associated with mathematical precision and logical thinking, and it might not immediately come to mind when thinking about art. But the intersection of geometry and art has a rich history that spans centuries and cultures. From ancient architecture to contemporary abstract paintings, geometric principles have influenced and shaped artistic expressions in various […]
The Importance of Blogging for Artists
Many of us can’t comprehend just how powerful a tool we have at our disposal with connectivity and social networking. A lot of creatives are born into the digital world, but for those of us who are a little older (cough), it’s still mind-blowing to see how many tools we have to improve not just […]
Huge Website Revamp
HAPPY NEW YEAR! There have been some big changes here at J. Oliver Designs over the last few weeks. I’ve gone through a full website revamp with a new look for 2022, and a new direction for my business going forward. There are a few things to point out if you’ve visited my site before […]
Prints and Merchandise on Society6
New announcement: you can now find physical products and merchandise on Society6 featuring my designs. I’ve wanted to open a print shop for such a long time, but I could never find the time to set up properly. Well, this weekend I finally set up my store and added a number of designs. Product ranges […]
Paper Crafts and Calligraphy at Home
Paper crafts are a wonderful way to express yourself if you have artist’s block or you’re struggling to be productive. The first few months of 2021 were tough for me and mine and it really screwed with my creativity. My father had a small stroke back in February (he is OK now, thank goodness) and […]
Creative Necessities | What Can’t You Live Without?
Most artists and designers will have creative necessities that they just can’t live without. I’m curious to learn what other people use on a daily—or at least regular—basis; those tools you depend on for your work and don’t think you can do without. They can range from hardware like computers and tablets, and software like […]
Behind the Scenes | My Design Process
Learn about my design process, from initial ideas right through to product launch.
Gaming and Streamer Logo Design
Anyone who knows me outside the design community knows I’m big time into gaming. I’ve been playing on console since I was 10, after my parents got me a Nintendo for Christmas (Mario FTW). These days I play on PS5 and I’m hugely into The Elder Scrolls Online and the Dragon Age games (with a […]
How to Choose Your Social Media Accounts
It's easy to get overwhelmed with so many social media options, especially if you are a new business or creator. This post highlights a few ways to decide which platforms to use.
Why It’s A Little Quiet on J. Oliver Designs
In September 2018 I began an online Master's degree in Graphic Design. It's a part-time degree, so it has been spread out across two years rather than the usual one year.
5 Reasons to Take A Break From Creative Projects
Breaks are important for a number of reasons but we are often conditioned to believe that if we are not working our socks off 24/7 we aren't doing enough.