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An Interview with Ian Pitt Founder and Creative Director of Me,Him&Her Design Studio

Published: January 28, 2025

Can you introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your design studio Me,Him&Her?

My name is Ian. I’m originally from London, but I’ve been living and working in Belfast for the past two and a half years. I’ve been working as a designer for nearly 30 years (time flies!!). I started designing within the retail sector and then co-founded my own studio, Me,Him& Her, in 2007.

As a studio, we’ve always worked across a wide range of media, including digital, print, and physical. We’ve designed identities for retailers, charities, artists, and galleries; signage for restaurants and workspaces; and packaging for artisan delis and craft beer makers.

We’re a small team that loves collaborating with other creatives and specialists to deliver projects with both creative and commercial impact. Our client list is incredibly diverse, ranging from well-established multinational brands to SMEs and startups.

Since moving to Belfast, the studio now has two addresses. While we continue to work for our existing clients in London, we’re also starting to connect with some fantastic new clients here.

 

What inspired you to become a designer and how did you first get started?

I always loved art, but I was never great at it – but from an early age I liked the idea of doing something creative as a career.

When I was about 10, my dad took me to a design studio one weekend. He worked in sales for the computer company ICL and had to proof a new brochure. Back then, they still made the brochures by hand, gluing together pages as paste-ups (I’m so old, I know!). I can still remember the cover – it was black with a painted orange neon electrical pulse running across it. I think that really set me on a path – that was tangible vision of creative role that stuck with me.

I hope they don’t still do this, but at school I remember getting asked a random set of questions which then spat out a job they thought you should do. It was like a weird fortune-telling careers adviser. The ‘crystal ball of employment’ said I should be a car mechanic at the local Ford garage. Luckily for me and car mechanics, a teacher pointed me towards Graphic Design instead.

So, I went to art college for a quick foundation year to make sure the art world wasn’t missing out on anything. Then, I went on to a graphic design degree. I was really lucky to get a job right after graduating, working as a designer for Marks and Spencer. That was a brilliant place to start out.

I was surrounded by a really supportive team of people who gave me plenty of time to learn and grow as a designer. Plus, I had the privilege of working with some incredibly talented creative professionals. The role was in the Store Display studio, where we were responsible for designing all the window promotions and in-store POS. This experience started my passion for designing in spaces and environments, and creating brand experiences in a three-dimensional context.

 

What made you decide to start your own design studio?

I had worked as a designer for two big retail brands (M&S and French Connection) that I absolutely adored, but by 2006, I was itching to explore other sectors. I felt a bit stuck, you know? There are only so many sale campaigns you can come up with. So, I decided to take a leap of faith and try something new.

My initial plan was to go freelance and see where it took me. I’m sure that would have been a total disaster, but luckily, my boss at the time was feeling the same way. We had always worked really well together, and he’s still the most creative person I’ve ever worked with – infuriating at times  – but always brilliant.

In 2007, we decided to start our own agency – Me,Him&Her. The name was something of a response to the Ad agencies we’d dealt with over the years that all sounded like law firms, all name checking the egos of the founding partners.

As the name suggests there was supposed to have been three of us, hence the ‘Her,’ but it didn’t quite work out. We were so in love with the name that we kept going as a slightly misnamed partnership for a while until we were finally joined by a couple of ‘Her(s).’

 

Has your business changed at all since you started back in 2007? Have your priorities changed?

The business has never stopped changing. I would say at the beginning we were very much making it up as we went along. I don’t think we really had a plan beyond enjoying our newfound creative freedom, creating the best work we could, and paying the bills. We had a mantra of ‘Loving your work’ which we had on all our stationery and comms – I still use that to this day – it really matters that I do love all the work we produce – as a priority for me and the business that has remained constant.

We started out focused on the retail sector – that’s what we knew and we had a great portfolio of work within that to attract clients – and we were really successful at it.

A year or so in, I got introduced to a young architecture firm, spacelab_ (now award-winning), and collaborated with them to design some graphic interiors in a workspace for a client of theirs. That opened up a whole new sector for us and created an enduring creative friendship with spacelab_.

I think when we started out I was really naive about what having your own business was going to be like. We grew pretty quickly. Our first studio was a pop-up we designed. A brilliant photographer and friend Martin Wonnacott was generous enough to let us build it within his photographic studio. Our address was the ‘The Set in the Corner’ and that’s exactly what it was – a bonkers timber-framed office, built like an exhibition stand looking like something you see on a film set. It had space for 3 of us to work and a storage area at the back. Brilliant.

A couple of years in, we realised we needed more space and staff. We rented another studio above the unit of a print supplier we worked with. That was a big change – as soon as we had more people, I felt overwhelmed. We weren’t designers anymore; we were directors. I was designing less and less, spending more time in client meetings, trying to find new work to keep our new team busy and managing people.

I think we got caught up in the idea of what a design studio should be, not what we wanted it to be. We continued to be successful, but I wanted to enjoy it entirely.

We ended up splitting the original business – then I realised the original ‘non-plan’ was actually pretty good.

“Enjoy the creative freedom, create the best work you can, and pay the bills”. 

I would say for the last 10 years I have now developed the right-sized studio. Me,Him&Her works with an amazing team of designers, collaborates with other creatives, specifically in the art sector, and continues to deliver projects I love.

 

What do you enjoy most about working for yourself?

Running your own business is an incredible feeling – you know that it’s ultimately up to you to make it a success or a failure. There’s definitely pressure that comes with that – not least the need to make money – but after almost 18 years of running my own business, I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Freedom is a big thing – a lot of my friends still think I’m ‘living the dream’, doing whatever I want whenever I want. That’s definitely not true. I do have a bit more flexibility with my time than most people with ‘real jobs’ do. At the end of the day, deadlines have to be met and work has to be done, so it’s just about time management.

The biggest freedom I’ve gained as I’ve gotten older is that I can now say no to some projects. You start to get a feel for what kind of work you like and how it might turn out. And you start to care more about how a relationship with a client will develop. That matters more and more to me – I want to do work that I’m really passionate about and with people I like. It can’t always be the case, but 85% of my time is spent doing just that.

 

Knowing what you know now, is there anything you would have done differently when you were first starting out? Do you have any advice for creatives starting out now?

No. I work doing the job I wanted to do since the age of 10. How cool is that? I have worked with some inspirational people, for some amazing clients, and delivered work I’m really proud of – doing something I absolutely love. Being a creative is a vocation. That old maxim, unusually for what I like to call ‘tea towel’ philosophy; ‘Find a job you love and you’ll never work a day in your life’ is actually true for me.

There are days you want to bang your head against the wall – days you think you’ll never have another idea in your life – days you’ll think you’ll never get another client – endless days you feel sick with worry and stress as you think about delivering the next piece of work – and days and days while you wait to get paid. But despite all that, having the opportunity to create something daily I think is genuinely such a privilege.

I don’t really like giving advice; what the hell do I know?

But… to be successful as a designer relies on so much more than just your visual talent. Learning about client relations. Learning out how best for you to present your work. Playing nicely with others. Taking on feedback and learning how to not throw your creative toys out of the pram if it’s bad. This is all best done with a supportive team around you to hold your hand through the multitude of mistakes you are undoubtedly going to make.

I’m going to also recommend a book: Do/Fly (Find your way, Make a living. Be your best self.) written by Gavin Strange – it’s from the stable of the Do Lectures (set up by the incredible David Hieatt, if you don’t know him or them go and find out about both) – it is for me a really inspirational read and a book I turn back to all the time when I need a creative pep talk. My favourite piece of advice (now it seems I’m on a roll of giving it!) though is the beautifully printed words of Anthony Burrill which hang in the studio.

“Work hard and be nice to people”

It might just be that simple. Sermon over.

 

You recently moved to Belfast from London, what inspired the move and how have you found it so far?

So, the most memorable thing that happened during my time at Marks and Spencer was that I met my wife there! She was working at M&S during her placement year from her marketing degree at the University of Ulster. After finishing her degree, she moved back and we settled down in London. After 30 years living there, we just wanted a change. We’d spoken about moving over the year prior to Covid, and actually put the offer in on the house we now live in two weeks prior to the first lockdown !! A pandemic and a full house renovation later and we were finally able to make the move in April 2022.

I’m loving living here. It wasn’t a total shock – I’d been coming back and forth for years, but now having the time to really explore Belfast and the whole of Ireland has been great. There’s a really good creative energy about the city. People think London is unfriendly – it’s not, but the warmth and generosity from everyone I’ve met here has been really lovely – thanks to everyone who has taken the time to have a pint(s) and a chat with me.

 

Are there any differences you have noticed between working as a designer in both cities?

Scale, I suppose. I still spend a lot of time working for clients in London, which is awesome, but I’d love to grow my work here more. 95% of my work has always come through a network of clients, colleagues, and friends I’ve known over the years in London. It’s always going to be tough building that from scratch here, but we’re making progress. This is a smaller pond to fish in, and there are already a lot of very talented studios doing great work here already.

 

Finally have you any exciting plans or ambitions for the future?

As anyone who has had the misfortune to listen to me banging on about this for the last two years, I would love for Me,Him&Her to open a print gallery here.

We have worked with some amazing artists and galleries in London, putting on shows and promoting work. I love wandering round Late Night Art once a month here and I’ve found some great galleries, but I miss the opening nights at somewhere like Jealous or the sort of shows we’d put on at the depot_. Nudge, by Patrick Colhoun and Hallerclarke at Riddell’s Warehouse last year was hands down the best put-together show I’ve been to in Belfast.

I’d love to have a commercial space selling accessible and affordable art. Celebrating the art of the printed, painted, and sprayed by some of the hottest UK and Irish artists, whilst also providing a space for the new and emerging. Anyone else wants to get involved, let me know. 2025 is the year I’m going to stop banging on about it and make it happen !!

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Another chance to read our interview with BBC Radio Producer Owen McFadden ahead of his Creative Audio Workshop in our Hill St studios tomorrow morning

You can still grab a ticket to his workshop via the link below or in our profile

https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

Oct 24

Open post by blickstudios with ID 18045125684436426
Another chance to read our interview with BBC Radio Producer Owen McFadden ahead of his Creative Audio Workshop in our Hill St studios tomorrow morning

You can still grab a ticket to his workshop via the link below or in our profile

https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

Our latest roundup of local and international funding, support & opportunities for NI creatives

01. Individual Artists Digital Evolution Awards

Programme Objectives
Upskilling NI artists in the use of new, emerging and immersive technology
Creation of excellent Digital Art

Programme Priorities
Creation of digital arts
Creating opportunities for audiences to experience digital and immersive arts
Encouraging cross-sectoral collaboration

Closing date: Thursday 27th November, 12:00PM

02. Digital Arts Studios Home Residency

The DAS Home Residency provides four months for you to develop a project of your choice, expanding your skills and practice.

Open to artists across Ireland and the UK, we welcome proposals from artists whose work employs digital technologies to challenge artistic boundaries and reimagine the cultural landscape.

Closing date: Sunday 16th November, Midnight

03. Imagine! Festival of Ideas and Politics – Call for Events

The Imagine! Belfast Festival returns during 23–29 March 2026 and they are once again inviting you to send them ideas for an event as part of the festival.

Closing date: Friday 7th November

04. Vault Christmas Market Call For Stallholders

This year’s Christmas Market is taking place on the first weekend of December (Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th) in Carlisle Memorial Church.

Closing date: Monday 27th of October

05. Belfast City Council Social Economy Incentive Fund

Apply now if you have a new or early stage social economy or co-operative business and want support to grow your venture further. The
fund can provide between £1,000 and £10,000 to help with things like equipment, skills development, set-up costs and specialist support.

Closing date: Tuesday 11th November 2025, 4pm

06. Craft NI Call For Facilitators

Craft NI is seeking expressions of interest from practitioners or facilitators who can deliver professional development sessions for craft
makers across Northern Ireland.

Closing date: Sunday 2nd November

Full listings including links on our blog (link below and in profile)

https://blickstudios.org/blog/13044/

Oct 24

Open post by blickstudios with ID 18207364534312742
Our latest roundup of local and international funding, support & opportunities for NI creatives

01. Individual Artists Digital Evolution Awards

Programme Objectives
Upskilling NI artists in the use of new, emerging and immersive technology
Creation of excellent Digital Art

Programme Priorities
Creation of digital arts
Creating opportunities for audiences to experience digital and immersive arts
Encouraging cross-sectoral collaboration

Closing date: Thursday 27th November, 12:00PM

02. Digital Arts Studios Home Residency

The DAS Home Residency provides four months for you to develop a project of your choice, expanding your skills and practice.

Open to artists across Ireland and the UK, we welcome proposals from artists whose work employs digital technologies to challenge artistic boundaries and reimagine the cultural landscape.

Closing date: Sunday 16th November, Midnight

03. Imagine! Festival of Ideas and Politics – Call for Events

The Imagine! Belfast Festival returns during 23–29 March 2026 and they are once again inviting you to send them ideas for an event as part of the festival.

Closing date: Friday 7th November

04. Vault Christmas Market Call For Stallholders

This year’s Christmas Market is taking place on the first weekend of December (Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th) in Carlisle Memorial Church.

Closing date: Monday 27th of October

05. Belfast City Council Social Economy Incentive Fund

Apply now if you have a new or early stage social economy or co-operative business and want support to grow your venture further. The
fund can provide between £1,000 and £10,000 to help with things like equipment, skills development, set-up costs and specialist support.

Closing date: Tuesday 11th November 2025, 4pm

06. Craft NI Call For Facilitators

Craft NI is seeking expressions of interest from practitioners or facilitators who can deliver professional development sessions for craft
makers across Northern Ireland.

Closing date: Sunday 2nd November

Full listings including links on our blog (link below and in profile)

https://blickstudios.org/blog/13044/

Some pics from a fab workshop hosted by @homewerk.project for us earlier this year on Adventures in ChatGPT.

This Saturday morning they are back with us hosting a ‘Creative Audio Workshop’ with radio and audio producer Owen McFadden from WhyFi Productions, who’ll draw on his experience of creating award-winning audio for BBC Radio Ulster, Radio 4 and more, to give insights into the basics of recording, editing, and shaping audio into compelling listening.

Whether you’re curious about podcasting, oral history, or creative soundscapes, this session will give you time and inspiration to think about the potential and power of audio.

WORKSHOP DETAILS

Event Date(s): Saturday 25th October

Event Time: 10.00 am - 12.15pm

Location: Blick Shared Studios, 46 Hill Street, Belfast, BT1 2LB

Cost: £15.00

More info & booking: https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

Oct 23

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Some pics from a fab workshop hosted by @homewerk.project for us earlier this year on Adventures in ChatGPT.

This Saturday morning they are back with us hosting a ‘Creative Audio Workshop’ with radio and audio producer Owen McFadden from WhyFi Productions, who’ll draw on his experience of creating award-winning audio for BBC Radio Ulster, Radio 4 and more, to give insights into the basics of recording, editing, and shaping audio into compelling listening.

Whether you’re curious about podcasting, oral history, or creative soundscapes, this session will give you time and inspiration to think about the potential and power of audio.

WORKSHOP DETAILS

Event Date(s): Saturday 25th October

Event Time: 10.00 am - 12.15pm

Location: Blick Shared Studios, 46 Hill Street, Belfast, BT1 2LB

Cost: £15.00

More info & booking: https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

A workshop I definitely want to sit in on! Audio content is such a powerful way to tell stories. Hoping to find new ways we can bring it into our projects at Blick. We’ve already seen the impact through past projects Small Town Big Dreams and Our Time is Now (https://blickstudios.org/our-time-is-now/

** DIGITAL BRUNCH WORKSHOP: CREATIVE AUDIO FOR BEGINNERS **

This Saturday morning in our Hill St studios as part of @homewerk.project, talented BBC radio producer Owen McFadden of @whyfiproductions will be sharing some of his secrets for audio creativity in this creative audio for beginners workshop.

Fresh from winning gold at the 2025 British Podcast Awards for a history podcast documentary on the Brighton Bomb, Owen is also the producer of The Ticket, BBC Radio Ulster`s most essential arts show.

Whether you’re curious about podcasting, oral history, or creative soundscapes, this session will give you time and inspiration to think about the potential and power of audio.

WORKSHOP DETAILS

Date: Saturday 25th October
Time: 10.00am – 12.15pm
Location: Blick Studios, Hill Street, Belfast
Cost: £15.00

(price includes light refreshments)

Booking link below and in profile

https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

Oct 22

Open post by blickstudios with ID 18057058154633388
A workshop I definitely want to sit in on! Audio content is such a powerful way to tell stories. Hoping to find new ways we can bring it into our projects at Blick. We’ve already seen the impact through past projects Small Town Big Dreams and Our Time is Now (https://blickstudios.org/our-time-is-now/

** DIGITAL BRUNCH WORKSHOP: CREATIVE AUDIO FOR BEGINNERS **

This Saturday morning in our Hill St studios as part of @homewerk.project, talented BBC radio producer Owen McFadden of @whyfiproductions will be sharing some of his secrets for audio creativity in this creative audio for beginners workshop.

Fresh from winning gold at the 2025 British Podcast Awards for a history podcast documentary on the Brighton Bomb, Owen is also the producer of The Ticket, BBC Radio Ulster's most essential arts show.

Whether you’re curious about podcasting, oral history, or creative soundscapes, this session will give you time and inspiration to think about the potential and power of audio.

WORKSHOP DETAILS

Date: Saturday 25th October
Time: 10.00am – 12.15pm
Location: Blick Studios, Hill Street, Belfast
Cost: £15.00

(price includes light refreshments)

Booking link below and in profile

https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

Some pics from our last creative talk with Ciaran Crudden founder of @lastbrand.studio sharing his creative story!

Oct 22

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Some pics from our last creative talk with Ciaran Crudden founder of @lastbrand.studio sharing his creative story!

Some photos from our Retail Ready Fieldtrip for Ulster University Enterprise Placement Year students that we led on Friday 10th October. Starting in our Hill Street studios before visiting @wearebornandbred_ @hunterpaperco and @storyboxni

With the students all learning about how to get their creative products ready for retail with Linzi Rooney founder of Born and Bred, Emma Johnston founder of Hunter Paper Co and Rachel McIlgorm founder of Story Box NI all sharing their stories, thoughts and experiences.

Such a great day with loads of brilliant insights and tips that we will share in a blog in coming weeks!

Thanks to Linzi Rooney, Emma Johnston and Rachel McIlgorm for very kindly giving up their time to meet with the students and share their experiences and thanks to Jackie Smyth from Ulster University for inviting us to be part of their programme we loved it!

Oct 21

Open post by blickstudios with ID 18103411600715298
Some photos from our Retail Ready Fieldtrip for Ulster University Enterprise Placement Year students that we led on Friday 10th October. Starting in our Hill Street studios before visiting @wearebornandbred_  @hunterpaperco and @storyboxni

With the students all learning about how to get their creative products ready for retail with Linzi Rooney founder of Born and Bred, Emma Johnston founder of Hunter Paper Co and Rachel McIlgorm founder of Story Box NI all sharing their stories, thoughts and experiences.

Such a great day with loads of brilliant insights and tips that we will share in a blog in coming weeks!

Thanks to Linzi Rooney, Emma Johnston and Rachel McIlgorm for very kindly giving up their time to meet with the students and share their experiences and thanks to Jackie Smyth  from Ulster University for inviting us to be part of their programme we loved it!

Some pics from our `Creative Brunch With Innovate UK Business Growth` earlier this month, event writeup and resources coming soon!

Oct 20

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Some pics from our 'Creative Brunch With Innovate UK Business Growth' earlier this month, event writeup and resources coming soon!

* * Next Weekend - Digital Brunch: Creative Audio for Beginners * *

Are you curious about how to bring stories to life through sound? In this session we’ll be joined by radio and audio producer Owen McFadden from WhyFi Productions, who’ll draw on his experience of creating award-winning audio for BBC Radio Ulster, Radio 4 and more, to give insights into the basics of recording, editing, and shaping audio into compelling listening. Whether you’re curious about podcasting, oral history, or creative soundscapes, this session will give you time and inspiration to think about the potential and power of audio.

Workshop details
Date: Saturday 25th October
Time: 10.00am – 12.15pm
Location: Blick Studios, Hill Street, Belfast
Cost: £15.00

For more information or to book your place visit the events page of our website (link below and in profile)

https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

Oct 19

Open post by blickstudios with ID 17924148549151062
* * Next Weekend - Digital Brunch: Creative Audio for Beginners * * 

Are you curious about how to bring stories to life through sound? In this session we’ll be joined by radio and audio producer Owen McFadden from WhyFi Productions, who’ll draw on his experience of creating award-winning audio for BBC Radio Ulster, Radio 4 and more, to give insights into the basics of recording, editing, and shaping audio into compelling listening. Whether you’re curious about podcasting, oral history, or creative soundscapes, this session will give you time and inspiration to think about the potential and power of audio.

Workshop details
Date: Saturday 25th October
Time: 10.00am – 12.15pm
Location: Blick Studios, Hill Street, Belfast
Cost: £15.00

For more information or to book your place visit the events page of our website (link below and in profile)

https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

Some more weekend reading. This time an interview with radio and audio producer Owen McFadden from WhyFi Productions (Radio 2, Radio 4, Radio Ulster and more) who is facilitating our `Digital Brunch Creative Audio for Beginners Workshop` next Saturday morning

https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

Oct 18

Open post by blickstudios with ID 17921185557168894
Some more weekend reading. This time an interview with radio and audio producer Owen McFadden from WhyFi Productions (Radio 2, Radio 4, Radio Ulster and more) who is facilitating our 'Digital Brunch Creative Audio for Beginners Workshop' next Saturday morning

https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

Hard to believe it has been a year since our trip to Hong Kong to create the Design Your Life interactive design installation with Belfast Design Week as part of the British Council Hong Kong Spark Festival. Sadly no international travel this year, but lots of great projects coming up including more @belfastdesignwk projects as part of @irish_designweek in November. We will be sharing more details on these over the next few weeks!

Oct 17

Open post by blickstudios with ID 17930908593103592
Hard to believe it has been a year since our trip to Hong Kong to create the Design Your Life interactive design installation with Belfast Design Week as part of the British Council Hong Kong Spark Festival. Sadly no international travel this year, but lots of great projects coming up including more @belfastdesignwk projects as part of @irish_designweek in November. We will be sharing more details on these over the next few weeks!

Some weekend reading! An interview we did with our friends Graeme and Katya founders of @homewerk.project back in the spring who are now working with us on a new series of Saturday morning workshops for creatives!

The next workshop is on creating Audio Content which is next Saturday 25th October at 10am with radio and audio producer Owen McFadden from WhyFi Productions, who’ll draw on his experience of creating award-winning audio for BBC Radio Ulster, Radio 4 and more, to give insights into the basics of recording, editing, and shaping audio into compelling listening.

https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

Oct 17

Open post by blickstudios with ID 18045559697401294
Some weekend reading! An interview we did with our friends Graeme and Katya founders of @homewerk.project back in the spring who are now working with us on a new series of Saturday morning workshops for creatives!

The next workshop is on creating Audio Content which is next Saturday 25th October at 10am with radio and audio producer Owen McFadden from WhyFi Productions, who’ll draw on his experience of creating award-winning audio for BBC Radio Ulster, Radio 4 and more, to give insights into the basics of recording, editing, and shaping audio into compelling listening.

https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

Last chance to book for tonight`s creative talk by Ciaran Crudden founder and creative director of The Last Brand creative agency

CREATIVE TALK DETAILS
Date: Wed 15th October
Time: 7pm - 8pm
Venue: Blick Hill St
Cost: Free

More info & booking (link below and in profile)

https://blickstudios.org/events/blick-creative-talk-ciaran-crudden-creative-director-of-the-last-brand/

Oct 15

Open post by blickstudios with ID 18075341174160752
Last chance to book for tonight's creative talk by Ciaran Crudden founder and creative director of The Last Brand creative agency

CREATIVE TALK DETAILS
Date: Wed 15th October
Time: 7pm - 8pm
Venue: Blick Hill St
Cost: Free

More info & booking (link below and in profile)

https://blickstudios.org/events/blick-creative-talk-ciaran-crudden-creative-director-of-the-last-brand/

Tonight Ciaran Crudden founder and creative director of The Last Brand is sharing his creative story with us at our creative talk. 

Ahead of his talk we have done a short interview with Ciaran which we have been sharing in bits over the last week or so. Here`s the full interview and you can also find it on the blog on our website!

We still have a couple of free tickets left for tonight which you can also sign up for on our website if you would like to join us!

https://blickstudios.org/events/blick-creative-talk-ciaran-crudden-creative-director-of-the-last-brand/

Oct 15

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Tonight Ciaran Crudden founder and creative director of The Last Brand is sharing his creative story with us at our creative talk. 

Ahead of his talk we have done a short interview with Ciaran which we have been sharing in bits over the last week or so. Here's the full interview and you can also find it on the blog on our website!

We still have a couple of free tickets left for tonight which you can also sign up for on our website if you would like to join us!

https://blickstudios.org/events/blick-creative-talk-ciaran-crudden-creative-director-of-the-last-brand/

** Blick Resident Gallery 545 – Contemporary Art of Northern Ireland #6 **

25 October – 22 November 2025
 
Blick resident Gallery 545 @gallery545online  in collaboration with the Island Arts Centre @islandartscentre presents this annual showcase of contemporary art of Northern Ireland, presenting over twenty accomplished artists and a diverse selection of exciting artworks.

Featuring Lisa Ballard, Justė Bernotaitė, Majella Clancy, Craig Donald, Ray Duncan, Emma Fitzpatrick, Karl Hagan, Elham Hemmat, Eamonn Higgins, Ashely B. Holmes, Sharon Kelly, Louise Lennon, Judith Logan, Alison Lowry, Rosie McGurran, Sinead McKeever, Sarah McWilliams, Maria Perry, Frances O’Reilly, Latisha Reihill, Katherine St Angelo and Anushiya Sundaralingam.

See the events page of our website for more info or @gallery545online on Instagram

https://blickstudios.org/events/contemporary-art-of-northern-ireland-6/

Oct 14

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** Blick Resident Gallery 545 – Contemporary Art of Northern Ireland #6 **

25 October – 22 November 2025
 
Blick resident Gallery 545 @gallery545online  in collaboration with the Island Arts Centre @islandartscentre presents this annual showcase of contemporary art of Northern Ireland, presenting over twenty accomplished artists and a diverse selection of exciting artworks.

Featuring Lisa Ballard, Justė Bernotaitė, Majella Clancy, Craig Donald, Ray Duncan, Emma Fitzpatrick, Karl Hagan, Elham Hemmat, Eamonn Higgins, Ashely B. Holmes, Sharon Kelly, Louise Lennon, Judith Logan, Alison Lowry, Rosie McGurran, Sinead McKeever, Sarah McWilliams, Maria Perry, Frances O’Reilly, Latisha Reihill, Katherine St Angelo and Anushiya Sundaralingam.

See the events page of our website for more info or @gallery545online on Instagram 

https://blickstudios.org/events/contemporary-art-of-northern-ireland-6/

An Interview with Ciaran Crudden Creative Director and Founder of The Last Brand who is sharing his story at our next Creative Talk on Wednesday evening at 7pm in our Hill St studios

Ciaran runs The Last Brand, a small branding and digital design studio in Belfast that works across brand identity, web, experiential and motion.

You can find details and sign up on the events page of our website for Ciaran`s talk!

You can also read Ciaran`s full interview on our website blog: https://blickstudios.org/blog/an-interview-with-ciaran-crudden-creative-director-and-founder-of-the-...

Oct 14

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An Interview with Ciaran Crudden Creative Director and Founder of The Last Brand	who is sharing his story at our next Creative Talk on Wednesday evening at 7pm in our Hill St studios 
 
Ciaran runs The Last Brand, a small branding and digital design studio in Belfast that works across brand identity, web, experiential and motion.

You can find details and sign up on the events page of our website for Ciaran's talk!

You can also read Ciaran's full interview on our website blog: https://blickstudios.org/blog/an-interview-with-ciaran-crudden-creative-director-and-founder-of-the-...

Our next Creative Talk is this Wednesday 15th October at 7pm in our Hill St studios with Ciaran Crudden founder and creative director of The Last Brand a creative studio committed to crafting brands that capture imaginations and inspire meaningful consumer interactions.

Ciaran is a senior creative with over 15 years’ experience across branding, experiential, art direction and motion design. His work focuses on uncovering the visual and verbal threads that connect and resonate with audiences. Known for bold ideas and thoughtful execution, Ciaran blends strategy with creativity to craft brand communications and experiences that are both distinctive and authentic.

In this talk, Ciaran will reflect on his creative journey, offering insights into different projects, valuable lessons learned, and the real-world experience of running an independent creative studio. You can find out more about Ciaran and see his work on his website The Last Brand https://www.thelastbrand.co.uk/

Here we are also sharing some examples of his design and branding work for the drinks industry. If you would like to come along to hear Ciaran share his creative story you can sign up for free on the events page of our website link below and in profile

CREATIVE TALK DETAILS

Date: Wed 15th October
Time: 7pm - 8pm
Venue: Blick Hill St
Cost: Free

More info & booking: https://blickstudios.org/events/blick-creative-talk-ciaran-crudden-creative-director-of-the-last-bra...

Oct 13

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Our next Creative Talk is this Wednesday 15th October at 7pm in our Hill St studios with Ciaran Crudden founder and creative director of The Last Brand a creative studio committed to crafting brands that capture imaginations and inspire meaningful consumer interactions.

Ciaran is a senior creative with over 15 years’ experience across branding, experiential, art direction and motion design. His work focuses on uncovering the visual and verbal threads that connect and resonate with audiences. Known for bold ideas and thoughtful execution, Ciaran blends strategy with creativity to craft brand communications and experiences that are both distinctive and authentic.

In this talk, Ciaran will reflect on his creative journey, offering insights into different projects, valuable lessons learned, and the real-world experience of running an independent creative studio. You can find out more about Ciaran and see his work on his website The Last Brand https://www.thelastbrand.co.uk/

Here we are also sharing some examples of his design and branding work for the drinks industry. If you would like to come along to hear Ciaran share his creative story you can sign up for free on the events page of our website link below and in profile 

CREATIVE TALK DETAILS

Date: Wed 15th October
Time: 7pm - 8pm
Venue: Blick Hill St
Cost: Free

More info & booking: https://blickstudios.org/events/blick-creative-talk-ciaran-crudden-creative-director-of-the-last-bra...

In 2 weeks on Saturday 25th October!

* * Digital Brunch: Creative Audio for Beginners * *

Are you curious about how to bring stories to life through sound? In this session we’ll be joined by radio and audio producer Owen McFadden from WhyFi Productions, who’ll draw on his experience of creating award-winning audio for BBC Radio Ulster, Radio 4 and more, to give insights into the basics of recording, editing, and shaping audio into compelling listening. Whether you’re curious about podcasting, oral history, or creative soundscapes, this session will give you time and inspiration to think about the potential and power of audio.

Workshop details
Date: Saturday 25th October
Time: 10.00am – 12.15pm
Location: Blick Studios, Hill Street, Belfast
Cost: £15.00
For more information or to book your place visit:
https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

Oct 11

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In 2 weeks on Saturday 25th October! 

* * Digital Brunch: Creative Audio for Beginners * * 

Are you curious about how to bring stories to life through sound? In this session we’ll be joined by radio and audio producer Owen McFadden from WhyFi Productions, who’ll draw on his experience of creating award-winning audio for BBC Radio Ulster, Radio 4 and more, to give insights into the basics of recording, editing, and shaping audio into compelling listening. Whether you’re curious about podcasting, oral history, or creative soundscapes, this session will give you time and inspiration to think about the potential and power of audio.

Workshop details
Date: Saturday 25th October
Time: 10.00am – 12.15pm
Location: Blick Studios, Hill Street, Belfast
Cost: £15.00
For more information or to book your place visit:
https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

Our latest roundup of local and international funding, support & opportunities for NI creatives

01. The Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre Artist / Creative Call Out – Digital Exhibition
The Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre are looking for digital submissions of works (in any discipline – Visual Arts, Written word, Film / Performance) for a thought-provoking Visual Arts Exhibition – displayed via screens and projections and a performance, highlighting Hate Crime.
Closing date: 4pm, 14th October 2025.

02. BSOA Christmas Market Open Call for Vendors
Saturday 29th November Belfast School of Art and Belfast School of Art Art Shop Christmas Market 2025

03. Grants for Blocked Creatives
Any creative can apply: artists, writers, painters, makers, designers. uk participants only. 18+
To apply: comment an emoji (or DM an emoji if you’re unable to comment)
Deadline extended: midnight 17th October 2025

04. Exhibition Call Out at Millennium Court
Millennium Court have released an open call for exhibition proposals. Most shows run for 4-6 weeks with a week for installation and de-installation.
Closing date: 31st October

05. Ards Arts Centre and North Down Museum OPEN CALL: ForM Sculpture Exhibition 2026
Applications are now open for artists from Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to propose works, suitable for outdoors, that responds to the environment of Bangor Castle Walled Garden.
Closing date: Mon 2 March 2026, 11:59pm (sharp)

Full listings including links on our blog link below and in profile:
https://blickstudios.org/blog/creative-roundup-opportunities-for-creatives-4/

Oct 9

Open post by blickstudios with ID 18104845957717896
Our latest roundup of local and international funding, support & opportunities for NI creatives

01. The Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre Artist / Creative Call Out – Digital Exhibition 
The Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre are looking for digital submissions of works (in any discipline – Visual Arts, Written word, Film / Performance) for a thought-provoking Visual Arts Exhibition – displayed via screens and projections and a performance, highlighting Hate Crime.
Closing date: 4pm, 14th October 2025.

02. BSOA Christmas Market Open Call for Vendors
Saturday 29th November Belfast School of Art and Belfast School of Art Art Shop Christmas Market 2025

03. Grants for Blocked Creatives
Any creative can apply: artists, writers, painters, makers, designers. uk participants only. 18+
To apply: comment an emoji (or DM an emoji if you’re unable to comment) 
Deadline extended: midnight 17th October 2025

04. Exhibition Call Out at Millennium Court 
Millennium Court have released an open call for exhibition proposals. Most shows run for 4-6 weeks with a week for installation and de-installation. 
Closing date: 31st October

05. Ards Arts Centre and North Down Museum OPEN CALL: ForM Sculpture Exhibition 2026 
Applications are now open for artists from Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to propose works, suitable for outdoors, that responds to the environment of Bangor Castle Walled Garden.
Closing date: Mon 2 March 2026, 11:59pm (sharp)

Full listings including links on our blog link below and in profile: 
https://blickstudios.org/blog/creative-roundup-opportunities-for-creatives-4/

On the final day of his interview with us ahead of his talk next Wed 15th October Ciaran shares with us how he copes on the days he doubts himself and his creative work

If you want to sign up for the talk just visit the events page of our website!

Oct 8

Open post by blickstudios with ID 18089438362842263
On the final day of his interview with us ahead of his talk next Wed 15th October Ciaran shares with us how he copes on the days he doubts himself and his creative work

If you want to sign up for the talk just visit the events page of our website!

It`s a busy week. As well as today`s Creative Brunch event with Innovate UK Business Growth and tonight`s Creative Adventure Club with @homewerk.project this Friday 10th October we are very excited to be hosting a ‘Retail Ready Fieldtrip’ we have organised for a group of creative Ulster University Enterprise Placement Year students, covering topics such as:

• Understanding your Market – what makes your product different, where you will ideally sell your work, which retailers/ platforms will work best for your business

• Merchandising your product

• How to approach retailers

• How to present your product

• How to find the right retailers for your work

• Pricing your work

Delivered in partnership and with the kind support of the following local independent retailers who will generously be sharing their first-hand experiences and insights with the students

• Linzi Rooney founder of @wearebornandbred_ a gift shop in Belfast that specialises in the art of gifting top quality, locally designed products. Sourcing the best talent across the island of Ireland.

• Emma Jackson founder of @hunterpaperco an independent shop in Belfast, which sells a range of carefully curated stationery as well as their own luxury letterpress stationery, greetings cards and art prints

• Rachel McIlgorm founder of @storyboxni  a Belfast-based social enterprise which sources and sells ethical gifts from local makers, social enterprises, and sustainable brands.

Thanks to Ulster University for inviting us to be part of their programme of events for the students

This event is specifically for Ulster University Enterprise Placement Year Students so unfortunately you can`t book a place, but we will be sure to share some pics and insights following the event

Oct 8

Open post by blickstudios with ID 18056917472234231
It's a busy week. As well as today's Creative Brunch event with Innovate UK Business Growth and tonight's Creative Adventure Club with @homewerk.project this Friday 10th October we are very excited to be hosting a ‘Retail Ready Fieldtrip’ we have organised for a group of creative Ulster University Enterprise Placement Year students, covering topics such as:

• Understanding your Market – what makes your product different, where you will ideally sell your work, which retailers/ platforms will work best for your business

• Merchandising your product

• How to approach retailers

• How to present your product

• How to find the right retailers for your work

• Pricing your work

Delivered in partnership and with the kind support of the following local independent retailers who will generously be sharing their first-hand experiences and insights with the students

• Linzi Rooney founder of @wearebornandbred_ a gift shop in Belfast that specialises in the art of gifting top quality, locally designed products. Sourcing the best talent across the island of Ireland.

• Emma Jackson founder of @hunterpaperco an independent shop in Belfast, which sells a range of carefully curated stationery as well as their own luxury letterpress stationery, greetings cards and art prints

• Rachel McIlgorm founder of @storyboxni  a Belfast-based social enterprise which sources and sells ethical gifts from local makers, social enterprises, and sustainable brands.

Thanks to Ulster University for inviting us to be part of their programme of events for the students

This event is  specifically for Ulster University Enterprise Placement Year Students so unfortunately you can't book a place, but we will be sure to share some pics and insights following the event
Our locations:

Blick Shared Studios, Hill Street

46 Hill Street, Belfast, BT1 2LB
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Blick Shared Studios, Cotton Court

30-42 Waring Street, Belfast, BT1 2ED
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Blick Shared Studios, Great Northern St

65 Great Northern Street, Belfast, BT9 7FL
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