We caught up with ex Graphic Design student, Ryan Dube, who has been up to exciting projects since he graduated in 2018. Check out our Q&A with Ryan below! 

Can you tell us a few things you’ve been up to since graduating?

“I’ve been up to loads!. I graduated about 2 years ago and it’s been a journey of both personal and professional growth.
I’m a care leaver so adjusting to independent life (which is something I’ve wanted from a young age) has been a main focus.
You know, all the boring adult stuff, like paying council tax.

After settling in to my own house in Stockton, I quickly found employment at “Ten Feet Tall” as a designer which runs a venue called Base Camp. I was surprised and humbled by this to be honest.

My mentality when graduating although being an illustrator, was one of curiosity and willingness to acquire skills outside of my main practice. Last year I began filming (for free) as a hobby and it very quickly turned into something I was able to monetise.

It complimented my illustration and graphic skills massively and taught me that you can keep growing long after formal education.

I’m sure it’s no secret by now that I have aspirations in music as well as art. My entire 3 years in uni was spent in part contemplating how I would balance these 2 passions with a fear that one had to be compromised.

This turned out not be true and my art skills have massively complimented my music career and vice versa. Through music I’ve been able to get video and art commissions from musicians, as well as direct and produce my own visual content.

How do you feel The Northern School of Art has prepared you for work in industry?

My college experience was absolutely crucial in regards to instilling a level of discipline and work ethic that makes you stand out.

I remember in college being somewhat complacent about having to fill a dozen A3 sheets with sketches, ideas and annotations.
However by the time I got to uni, without having to really think about it, I was able to generate ideas quicker and more in depth than peers who hadn’t previously been to green lane.

Creative discipline is so crucial for professional success, and isn’t a bad thing.

I’m actually very thankful for my tutors (Paul Clayton and Tom Burton) for it because it pushed me beyond what I knew I was capable of.

It’s actually enjoyable because it rewards you with tangible and consistent progress. So my advice to other creative is not to fear it, and soon enough you will love it.

What was your favourite thing about your studies with us?

A few things. The friends I made, the open friendly tight nit community was incredible. I doubt you could find it at another uni or college. The student services were absolutely incredible. And oh yeah, the affordable vegetarian food was actually to die for. Shout out to the dinner ladies!

Can you tell us about your work with Hungry Jacks?

I worked with for Hungry Jack’s from second year of uni til last year.

My tutors never held me back when opportunities like this presented themselves.

This is when I began combining my knowledge of creating still images and turning them into videos that were ready to be consumed via social media. It gave me confidence as a creative and let me know the types skills I would need to be a proficient creative within the industry.

I basically got the job because everywhere I went, no matter who it was and where, I let people know I was designer. One day I walked into the Billingham Hungry Jack’s and got chatting to what appeared to be one of the employees. I let him know that I was designer and it turned out to be the boss.

You never know who is watching, listening and who may have an opportunity for you. For upcoming creatives always let people know you are an artist, even if you haven’t graduated.

Check out Ryan’s Hungry Jack’s advert below:

Anything in the pipeline?

I’m flirting with the idea of taking on projects/work further afield, more than likely Manchester.

Exploring my creative talents even more by collaborating with some creatives outside of Teesside. One of them being Zane Burkmar, a talented musician and writer based in Leicester .

Also doing some film work and working with local musicians like Brad Robinson, Finn Forster and promoting Base Camp’s Side Car rehearsal studio in Middlesbrough.

I’m also working on a “Top secret” project with Middlesbrough local coffee shop Off The Ground. Hopefully by the end of 2021 I’ll be frequenting Manchester. That’s the aim anyways.

If you’re looking to study a creative degree, be sure to check out our Graphic Design degree course at the link below:

https://northernart.ac.uk/study-with-us/hartlepool-campus/degree-fda-courses/ba-hons-graphic-design-2/