Farouq Osuolale, a.k.a. theonlyfarouq, a brand designer, who re-designed Innoson Motors’ insignia, in this interview with EHIME ALEX, speaks on how challenges affect his work
How did you start as a brand identity designer?
I did more of flyers designing back then, and anytime I saw a company with a not-too-good logo, I cringe and start thinking of how the company’s identity could be made better. Then I enrolled in classes, read books and started practising what I learnt.
What is the motivation for you in this field of creative design?
I have always wanted to create things and bring my imagination to life. This, I would say, is my motivation – the zeal to keep creating.
Your creative ability caught the attention of many, when you re-designed the logo of Innoson Motors, about three years ago. What opportunities have that particular project opened up for you?
The Innoson logo re-design opened me to a lot of opportunities. I got to work with companies and notable individuals, which afforded me the chance to know how much more I need to know to succeed.
From your experience, what would you say is the biggest challenge for a creative designer?
Consistency, I guess. As much as I love to create, being consistent with making something really good, I believe, is my biggest challenge.
How did parental upbringing influence your course of study (Computer Science) and interest in creative design?
My parents are very supportive of my interests and they believe in the idea of having a skill. Hence, they enrolled me in a computer school at quite an early age. This helped set the pace for me.
There are quite a number of creative designers in Nigeria. What makes your design unique, to the point that somebody could easily identify you with it?
Apart from style, I believe in originality and the fact that your identity can be constructed from a purpose. We can say I create purposeful, unique and high quality designs.
What challenges have you faced as a brand designer and how did you overcome them?
As a brand designer, I have faced issues of pricing, consistency and growth.
Some challenges I have overcome; some I am still dealing with. What I can say is, I have got better at dealing with them than I used to.
Would you like to share your greatest and worst moments as a brand designer?
My greatest moment would be the Innoson project gaining lots of traction. Worst moments; after I’m done with a project, the chase that comes with getting new ones (laughs).
Many young Nigerians would love to leave this country, given the opportunity. Have you had such a thought?
Yes, I have. Being a young man, I really would love to further my studies abroad and explore what it is like outside the space I have always been in.
What have you not shared anywhere about BookYourDesign, which you co-founded?
I did enjoy my time while working with the agency. It added a lot to my growth too.
Apart from your course of study and creative design, what other areas are you good at?
Photography and gaming.
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