Briar Fraser

On following a career path in the arts...

After completing my university degree in geography, my next strongest subject was art, so I took a postgraduate course in Graphic Design. Graphic design has always felt natural to me and it was exciting to start my career doing what I genuinely enjoyed. After starting my career in magazine publishing, I now design across packaging, brand development and textiles.

On juggling motherhood and a career...

Having three small boys aged 4, 5 and 8, I have the mum's life/work life juggle, which is why freelancing works so well. Currently I’m focusing on art direction for Smartmouth Communications.   I'm so grateful to live in New Zealand, where we can head to the beach after working all day, and people understand the need to balance work life with family life.

On a love for sustainable fashion...

I have always loved fashion. When I was younger, I’d sew my own clothing and these days I enjoy wearing pre-loved fashion. I lived in Dubai for a few years, where I designed the fashion magazine, Harper’s Bazaar – a career highlight. I love the way that you can express yourself creatively through what you wear.

On advice if you’re starting out in graphic design...

Doing a great design course is your best start. There are so many good across New Zealand – both in-person courses and those that are entirely online.

On being inspired to fuel creativity...

If you have a creative brain and an overactive mind like I do, then you can find inspiration everywhere. When taking time out, I particularly enjoy walking alone on the beach – it calms my mind and sparks creativity.

On a favourite way to relax...

The best way to unwind would have to be listening to my friend, Hollie Smith’s beautiful voice – there is nothing more relaxing than that!

On an inspiring quote...

I always return to the quote: ‘If you weather the storm the sun will follow’. I feel this can put your mind at ease knowing whatever the hard situation you may be experiencing, that things do get easier.

On nurturing a sense of community...

Community to me is when people come together to help out those who might need it more than you; banding together when times are tough. It might just be baking for neighbors or giving them fruit or produce from the garden. I think it's important for our children to learn the importance of community – looking out for each other.

On being grateful...

I’m grateful for my healthy family. I’m also grateful that I live in New Zealand – a place we can live freely and breathe clean air freely.

On the importance of children’s health research through Cure Kids...

Life can be taken away so unfairly. Recently a close friend lost her child to cancer – an awful, heartbreaking experience that no parent should have to go through. Every child deserves a healthy future which is why supporting children’s health research is incredibly important.

On supporting Great Full...

Hollie Smith is a great friend so when Great Full asked me to contribute to this project, I jumped at the chance. It's such an amazing concept that Great Full is bringing to life – helping those who need it most.

Briar contributed to Great Full’s Jams project by lending her graphic design talents to Hollie Smith’s ‘Rattle and Roll’ artwork. Visit her website Smartmouth.co.nz