Our Crater X Cambrian College Graphic Design: Brett Lair
We’ve had the chance to talk to some of Sudbury’s finest designers who are all graduates of Cambrian College’s Graphic Design program! Each designer in this series were born in raised right here in Sudbury, and have continued to grow their careers all over the world. Today’s designer is: Brett Lair!
Name: Brett Lair
School and Program: Cambrian College – Graphic Design
Current Location and Profession: Sault Ste. Marie, ON – Full-time Freelance Designer
First things first: do you have a favourite memory from Cambrian College? Why should other budding designers attend the school’s art and design programs?
Not one memory specifically, but the events we had within the design program were all great experiences. We planted trees to offset our paper use, had the Lateral Thinkers conference in the eDome, went to Toronto for DesignThinkers every year, and of course the very stressful but invaluable portfolio review in 3rd year. Overall it was a great three years with lots of caffeine and designing late into the night.
I think everyone who has been part of the design program as a student quickly notices that the profs want you to be the best designer you can be and they go above and beyond to make the program one of the best.
When did you first realize that you wanted to be a designer?
To be honest, not until I was already in the program. I knew I wanted to do something creative, and graphic design was an interesting option so I went for it and fell in love. Looking back, it all makes sense because I grew up as that “creative kid” and can remember designing logos in elementary school and high school before really understanding the process that goes into it.
Graphic design is all about creativity and innovation; what do you feel makes your work stand out? What is unique about your style?
I think its authenticity. I’ve always made sure that I’m not following the latest design trends and strive for longevity and timeless design. Every project I take on requires me to ask my clients meaningful questions which allows me to tailor the design to their needs and goals. My style is fairly minimalist, keeping only what is truly necessary with a nice touch of OCD in the details.
Where do you draw inspiration for your work?
Various design blogs and sites (Behance, Dribbble, The Dieline, BrandNew, etc.) are a constant source of inspiration, but a big influence in my overall approach is Scandinavian design which focuses on beautifully simple and functional designs, whether it’s graphic design, product design or architecture.
Tell us about a favourite project or piece that you have created!
I recently took on the branding for Anderson Craft Ales, a microbrewery out of London, Ontario. I had been wanting to get involved with the craft beer industry for a while now, so this was a dream client to work with. Our visions aligned and we were able to create some amazing work from their identity to the design of their beer cans, apparel and website. They recently uploaded a video of 197,000 cans being delivered which was insane to see my design on that level!
Where do you currently design, and do you have any upcoming projects that you are looking forward to?
I’m self-employed and living in Sault Ste. Marie, but work with clients and agencies from around the world including the USA, Sweden, the United Kingdom, Australia and of course Canada. I have some new projects in the works right now but it’s too early to say much about it… you’ll just have to follow my work to see it when it comes out!
Where can we stay up to date on your work and check out more of your designs?
Please check out my website (www.brettlair.ca) and Dribbble (www.dribbble.com/brettlair) to see my work, and follow me on Instagram and Twitter, both @brettlair.
Adriana Nicolucci
Adriana Nicolucci is a Communications and Film Production graduate, fashion enthusiast, and patterned sock collector. She’s often spotted munching on the Eenie Meenie Grilled Zucchini Pizza at the Buddha. Danny Ocean is her spirit animal, except she’s planning a heist to steal your hearts (not a casino)
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