Interviews med Natalya Bilousova

I'm a self-taught designer with a master's degree in math. My journey into design began out of a deep passion for the creative process, and I've always found fulfillment in crafting handmade items. This blend of mathematical training and artistic exploration has shaped my approach to design, blending analytical thinking with a love for creativity and craftsmanship.

What motivates me to design is the opportunity to create something entirely new and unique. I've always had a passion for bringing ideas to life in ways that haven't been seen before. While I may not draw like a traditional artist, design allows me to channel my creative energy and problem-solving skills into tangible, functional solutions.

Design has always felt like my destiny. When I was a child, I spent most of my free time designing crafts and clothes for my doll. My love for design started early—I even earned my first bit of money in grade 3 by creating a poster for my classroom. Even though I tried to follow a different path and got a master’s degree in math, I realized that my heart was truly in design. It's always been a part of me, and I can't imagine doing anything else.

I really enjoy designing packaging and creating designs for everyday products. There's something special about making common goods look beautiful and functional. I also have a passion for animation and hand lettering. Animation allows me to bring stories to life in a dynamic way, and hand lettering gives a personal, artistic touch to my work. Combining these elements keeps my creativity flowing and makes every project exciting.

I appreciate the thought, but I don’t consider myself a design legend. However, for young designers aiming to make a significant impact, I’d suggest keep working hard, stay dedicated, and enjoy the journey. The path to making a mark in design is unique for everyone, and staying true to your passion will guide you along the way.

reat designers have a solid process they stick to, which helps them handle projects efficiently and effectively. They’re also skilled at managing their time well, making sure they meet deadlines while keeping up the quality of their work. Confidence is important too — they’re sure about their ideas and decisions. And strong communication skills are essential; they enable them to work well with clients and teammates, and clearly share their vision and feedback.

A really good design shines by hitting a few key notes. First off, it needs to do its job well—whether that's solving a problem, improving user experience, or getting a message across. It should also be visually appealing and cohesive, making sure it grabs attention and sticks in the mind. Creativity and innovation are big pluses too, as they bring fresh ideas and unique solutions.

When I’m evaluating a design, I look at how well it meets its goals, how it looks, and the impression it leaves. I also consider how easy it is to use and whether it fits with the brand’s identity. Basically, a good design isn’t just about looking great; it needs to work smoothly and make a positive, lasting impact.

Good design really adds value because it makes products and experiences more appealing and effective. People naturally gravitate toward things that are well-designed, and they’re more likely to choose and invest in something that looks great and works well. It’s not just about making things look nice; good design also enhances how something functions and how easy it is to use. Investing in good design helps a brand stand out, makes a strong impres

I love creating things like knitted gloves and hats, necklaces, bracelets, and crochet bandanas. It’s something I actually have time for now, and I’ve enjoyed making these pieces for my friends — they all have something designed by me. Designing accessories is a fun way to blend creativity with functionality, and I love seeing how my designs add a personal touch to people's everyday lives

The dream project I haven’t yet had time to fully realize is designing a complete font family with five different weights. Honestly, I’ve had the time, but I haven't quite had the patience to see it through to completion.

Just keep doing, travel and talk to people to understand their needs.

I really admire Jessica Walsh’s style—her work is always so vibrant and impactful. Anna Kulachek is another designer I find inspiring; she’s incredibly productive and consistently maintains a strong visual style. Both of them bring such creativity and dedication to their work, which motivates me in my own design journey.

Oh, it’s so tough to pick just a few favorites because there are so many amazing designs out there. My Pinterest boards are packed with fantastic examples that I find inspiring. I’m particularly drawn to designs that embrace simplicity and sometimes those with a touch of the unusual. There’s something captivating about clean, straightforward designs as well as those that break the mold and offer a fresh perspective.

Greatest design? Hmmm, honestly, I wouldn't label any of my designs as the greatest. I have a deep appreciation for all my packaging projects, and I’m particularly proud of the most recent one that performed exceptionally well for its owners. In my opinion, a truly great design is one that stands the test of time and is recognized and valued by millions of people.

o become a better designer, I suggest not getting stuck in front of your laptop all the time. Engage with real life, immerse yourself in new experiences, and continuously feed your eyes with inspiring visuals. Having a hobby and a personal project can also help you express your creativity. For me, stepping away from the screen and finding inspiration in the world around me has been crucial.

If I hadn't pursued a career in design, I would have definitely become an accessories designer. Crafting is a huge passion of mine, and I absolutely love creating unique pieces of jewelry and crocheting clothes. It's a wonderful way to blend creativity and craftsmanship, and I find immense joy in bringing beautiful, handmade items to life.

For me, design is not just a job — it's a lifestyle. I feel incredibly happy designing cool stuff and seeing it come to life in the real world. I love briefing my clients, presenting my work to them, and discussing various ways to design their products. Even my hobbies are related to design; when I'm not at work, I enjoy creating necklaces or bracelets. Design is woven into every aspect of my life, making it both my passion and my profession.

I’d say my biggest supporter was my first employer, who took a chance on me despite my lack of experience. The salary was quite low, and I felt pretty useless at the start, but that opportunity was crucial in defining the beginning of my design journey. I’m truly grateful for their belief in me and the chance they gave me to grow in the field.

What helped me become a great designer was reaching out to people from other cities when I was living in a small town without a design community. Their openness to my questions and their valuable advice were incredibly helpful. Even now, I believe that being part of the design community is one of the best ways to continually improve and stay inspired.

Before reaching mastery in design, I faced several challenges, such as a lack of experience and fear of having weak ideas. Imposter syndrome was also a big issue. To overcome these obstacles, I gained hands-on experience, built confidence in my ideas, and learned to trust my skills and instincts. Each challenge helped me grow and become a more confident designer.

Designers should approach their presentations with confidence and a strong belief in their ideas. If you don’t fully believe in your work, it’s challenging to persuade others of its value. It’s crucial to prepare thoroughly, anticipate potential questions, and be ready to address them effectively. Always remember that client feedback is focused on the work itself, not on you personally — taking it as constructive criticism rather than a personal attack helps maintain a positive mindset. Additionally, having a well-organized plan and presenting high-quality images are key to showcasing your design in the best possible light. This preparation not only highlights your design’s strengths but also demonstrates your professionalism and commitment to the project.

Currently, I’m working on packaging designs for sparkling wine and coffee, and I’m really excited about both projects. While I can’t share too many details just yet, I’m thrilled about the direction they’re taking and look forward to revealing more in the near future. Stay tuned for some fresh and innovative designs!

My ultimate goal as a designer is to create something truly great and valuable. More than that, I want to find happiness in my work and continue doing what I love. Balancing creativity with personal fulfillment is key for me, and I hope to produce designs that are both meaningful and satisfying.

When people think of a respected designer, they often expect more than just aesthetically pleasing work. They’re looking for designs that are both innovative and effective, something that stands out and makes a real impact. Creativity is a must, but it's equally important to pay close attention to every detail and truly understand the client’s needs and goals. Clients also hope for a high level of professionalism throughout the process. This means clear and open communication, meeting deadlines, and offering thoughtful solutions that address their specific challenges. Overall, it's about combining artistic vision with a strong sense of responsibility and understanding to deliver exceptional results.

Design improves society by focusing on a few important principles. It makes sure products are accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities, and embraces inclusion by reflecting diverse needs and perspectives. Responsible packaging, such as using eco-friendly materials or no packaging at all, helps protect the environment. Designers also choose sustainable and recyclable materials to reduce harm to the planet. Finally, good design makes communication clearer and more engaging, helping people understand and interact with information better.

I’m currently working on several packaging projects that I’m especially excited about. I can’t wait to see them come to life and to hear people’s reactions when they experience the designs firsthand. It’s always thrilling to see a concept turn into a tangible product and to gauge how it resonates with others.

Design projects for consumer goods have given me the most satisfaction. I find great joy in creating products that people use and appreciate in their everyday lives. Seeing something I designed being enjoyed and valued by others is incredibly rewarding and fulfilling.

In the coming years, I’d like to see the design industry move away from mediocrity and strive for more exceptional and unique work. Great design should stand out and offer something truly distinctive. I also hope the industry will continue to embrace sustainable and ethical practices, focusing on eco-friendly materials and reducing waste. Additionally, a greater emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility will ensure that designs serve diverse audiences effectively. Lastly, I’d love to see emerging technologies integrated in a way that enhances human creativity rather than replacing it, allowing for even more innovative and meaningful design solutions.

The design field is heading towards a future that is both more integrated and technologically advanced. We’re likely to see continued growth in the use of AI and machine learning, which will enhance design processes through automation and data analysis. Alongside this, the field is shifting towards a more multidisciplinary approach. Designers can no longer focus solely on graphic design; there’s a growing need to expand skills into areas like UX/UI, industrial design, and digital media. Additionally, there is an increasing emphasis on accessibility and inclusion, ensuring that designs work well for everyone. As the field evolves, blending different design disciplines and addressing diverse user needs will be essential for staying relevant and effective.

The time it takes to finalize a design project really depends on the specific project. It could range from a few hours to several months. Each client has unique needs, so sometimes it takes longer to understand their goals and preferences. For example, I once completed a project for a friend — a chocolate label — in just two days because she was very clear about her wishes. Generally, the timeline varies based on the complexity of the project and the clarity of the client's vision.

My design process starts with research to understand the project and its goals. Then, I move on to sketching and brainstorming ideas. After that, I explore different concepts and gather feedback from clients. Finally, I refine the design based on the feedback to make sure everything aligns perfectly.

Keep going and keep growing!

It's a bit of a two-way street. Design often helps set trends by introducing new ideas, styles, and innovations that can influence broader cultural and aesthetic movements. At the same time, trends can shape design by creating a framework or context that designers work within. Designers might draw inspiration from current trends, but they also have the power to push boundaries and create new ones.

Technology is essential in design because it makes processes more efficient and lets us focus more on ideas and concepts. With tools and software handling repetitive tasks, managing complex data, and streamlining workflows, we have more time for creativity and innovation. When technology takes care of the technical details, we can concentrate on developing and refining our concepts, confident that the implementation will be handled smoothly.

I wouldn’t say I’m very original in my choice, but my go-to design software includes the Adobe Suite — Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, After Effects, and Dimension — as well as Figma. These tools cover most of my everyday design needs and help me work efficiently across different projects.

Color, materials, and ambient factors are essential in design because they engage our senses, which are key to how we experience and understand the world. Color shapes our emotions and perceptions, setting moods, conveying meanings, and influencing our interactions with a design. The choice of materials impacts both the look and feel of a design, affecting texture, weight, and durability, and contributing to its overall quality and sustainability. Ambient factors like lighting, sound, and spatial arrangement further shape our experience by highlighting details, setting the right atmosphere, and guiding how we interact with a space or product.

I’d love for people to ask about the ideas and thought processes behind my designs. It’s especially pleasant when they save my work to their moodboards or reference it for their own projects. Hearing that my ideas are appreciated and well-developed is the most rewarding feedback I can get.

When I come across a new great design or product, my first thought is often, "Why didn’t I come up with that?" I’m always curious about the process behind it and would love to ask people about their approach and see the behind-the-scenes of how they brought their idea to life.

My ideal design partner would be someone who is highly organized and has excellent time management skills. I believe in co-design and value having a partner who can provide a balanced perspective and help keep projects on track. It’s great to have someone who can say, "Stop iterating, it's good enough," to ensure we don’t get caught in endless revisions and can move forward efficiently.

The people from the Ukrainian design community have had the most influence on my design. They are incredibly kind, supportive, and open to new ideas, always ready to help and share their knowledge. Their encouragement and openness have been instrumental in shaping my approach and growth as a designer.

It's always challenging for me to pinpoint which books have had the most effect on my design, as I often can't recall specific titles in the moment. Having a list to choose from might make this easier. However, books on typography, such as "The Elements of Typographic Style" by Robert Bringhurst, have had a notable influence on my design approach.

developed my skills as a master designer through a combination of daily inspiration and continuous learning. I make it a habit to browse new design solutions regularly, which helps me stay updated and inspired. Seeking feedback from others has been invaluable for refining my work and gaining fresh perspectives. I invest time in online courses and workshops to learn new techniques and expand my knowledge.

Irrespective of time and space, I’d love to meet a renowned font designer from the past whose work continues to influence design today. It would be fascinating to delve into their thoughts on how their fonts are used in modern design contexts and how they perceive the ways their creations have been adapted and reinterpreted over time. I’d also be interested in exploring their views on the evolution of design practices and trends, and how they think their approach to design might have evolved if they were working in today’s world. Their insights would offer a profound understanding of both their own work and the broader changes in the design landscape.

I’d probably answer this question more easily if I were famous, but I can share my thoughts on awards and recognition. While awards are always pleasant and serve as a valuable acknowledgment from design professionals, they’re not the ultimate goal. They provide a nice boost alongside client feedback, but it's crucial to remember that the primary focus should be on meeting client and business goals. Awards are a great honor, but they should complement, not overshadow, the core objectives of design work.

I don’t have a single favorite color, but I really love the hues found in nature—like the colors of sunsets and sunrises, a deep blue sky, white snow, and the vibrant red of strawberries with their green leaves. My favorite food is avocado toast with salmon and sushi. As for brands, I don’t have just one favorite, but I have a soft spot for Uniqlo.

Once, I almost cried and begged my client not to destroy their logo with a small, improper raster image. They wanted to include a very low-quality PNG right in the center of an already overwhelmed logo. Despite my best efforts to explain why it wouldn't work, the client insisted, saying, "We want it like this, please keep it." It was a humorous yet challenging moment, highlighting the delicate balance between client wishes and design principles!

What makes my day great as a designer is a combination of factors. Positive feedback from clients always brightens my day and fuels my motivation. I also thrive when I have time to learn or try something new, which keeps me engaged and inspired. A good cup of coffee and a restful night’s sleep further contribute to setting me up for a productive and satisfying day.

When I was a little child, it might not have been obvious that I would become a designer, but I always had a deep passion for the creative process. I graduated from Art School, and even as a child, I was constantly creating craft projects and exploring new artistic ideas. My early love for creativity and making things by hand naturally led me to a career in design.

That’s a great question! Given how technology and medicine are advancing, I hope that in a thousand years, people will not only live longer but also enjoy healthier and more vibrant lives. With continued developments in these fields, we can look forward to a future where we overcome many current health challenges and enhance our quality of life.

Thank you for inviting me!

Design has always felt like my destiny. When I was a child, I spent most of my free time designing crafts and clothes for my doll. My love for design started early—I even earned my first bit of money in grade 3 by creating a poster for my classroom. Even though I tried to follow a different path and got a master’s degree in math, I realized that my heart was truly in design. It's always been a part of me, and I can't imagine doing anything else.

While I don't have my own design studio or company, I have extensive experience as a freelance designer. Currently, I work as a permanent designer at a Canadian agency. This has allowed me to grow and collaborate with a diverse range of clients and projects, enriching my skills and passion for design.

For me, design is more than just a job — it's a lifestyle. Design is about seeing the world creatively and finding beauty and function in everything. It's a constant journey of learning, experimenting, and growing. Whether I'm working on a project or just taking in my surroundings, design shapes how I think and feel. It's a core part of who I am

I really enjoy designing packaging and creating designs for everyday products. There's something special about making common goods look beautiful and functional. I also have a passion for animation and hand lettering. Animation allows me to bring stories to life in a dynamic way, and hand lettering gives a personal, artistic touch to my work. Combining these elements keeps my creativity flowing and makes every project exciting.

I don't really have a favorite design project because each one has a part of me in it. I believe that my best work is still ahead of me. I prefer to focus on growing and improving with each new project, rather than bragging about past achievements. Every design I work on teaches me something new and brings me closer to creating my best work in the future.

If I'm not mistaken, it was a printed booklet with the business card for the company owner.

It's hard to pick just one favorite material, platform, or technology — it's like choosing a favorite color; it often depends on the context. I particularly appreciate working with soft-touch paper for its tactile quality, and I find Pinterest (yes, I'm not original) to be a great source of inspiration and ideas. Each material and platform brings something unique to the table, enriching my creative process in different ways.

I feel the most creative when I’m traveling and meeting new people. There’s something about experiencing different cultures and perspectives that really sparks my imagination. Being in new environments and connecting with others often inspires fresh ideas and approaches in my work.

When I’m designing, I always make sure that the design works well and does what it’s supposed to. I also aim to make it look great and feel cohesive. I try to stay true to the brand’s style while also bringing in fresh and creative ideas. By keeping these things in mind, I work to create designs that not only meet but exceed expectations.

When I’m designing, I feel incredibly inventive. It’s like my mind is constantly buzzing with new ideas and possibilities. There’s a thrill in exploring different creative solutions and bringing them to life. It’s a mix of excitement and curiosity, driving me to experiment and push boundaries to create something unique and impactful.

When my designs are realized, I feel the most pleasant emotion of all: the satisfaction that the job is done and everything is now live. There’s a great sense of accomplishment and joy seeing all the hard work come to life and make an impact.

When functionality, aesthetics, innovation, and creativity come together, the design not only meets its objectives but also leaves a lasting impression.

This answer is based on the previous question, as it highlights important factors like aesthetics, functionality, innovation and so on, that make a design successful. The artistic part of my personality first notices aesthetics. If something looks bad, the clear message and functionality will likely fail to achieve their purpose.

From my perspective, designers have a big role to play in both society and the environment. We need to think carefully about how our designs impact people and the planet. This means being mindful of using sustainable materials and creating things that are kind to the environment. As we spend more time in the digital world, it's super important that our designs are accessible to everyone, no matter their abilities or circumstances. This means making sure our digital creations are easy to use and navigate for everyone. By prioritizing accessibility, we not only reach a wider audience but also show that we're committed to designing in a thoughtful and inclusive way. Essentially, it’s about ensuring that what we create not only looks good and functions well but also contributes positively to the world around us.

The design field is evolving rapidly, and with the advancements in AI, I think we might see incredible changes, like being able to design our own personalized digital environments. The possibilities are definitely intriguing. As we explore these new frontiers, it's also important for designers to remember their social responsibilities. Ensuring that our designs are accessible to everyone and address social issues remains crucial, even as technology advances.

I haven’t had an exhibition yet, but I'm definitely interested in organizing one in the future. It would be exciting to find the right opportunity and location to showcase my work.

My design inspiration comes from a variety of sources. I find visual platforms like Pinterest incredibly helpful for discovering new ideas and trends. Traveling also plays a big role; experiencing new places, trying new foods, and meeting different people all contribute to my creative process. People, in particular, are a major source of inspiration — everyone has unique stories and perspectives that can spark fresh ideas. By staying open to these diverse influences, I’m able to feed my creativity and bring new elements into my work.

I would describe my design style as vibrant and clean. I’m really drawn to bright colors, which add a dynamic and energetic feel to my work. I also love using grids to create structure and balance, which helps keep things organized and visually appealing. Simplicity is a key characteristic of my style; I believe in making designs straightforward and uncluttered so that they communicate clearly.

I currently live in Canada, but having lived in Ukraine, I definitely felt the influence of my country's cultural heritage on designs. In Ukraine, I noticed a strong historical impact on design solutions, especially in font design. Many designers skillfully blended historical shapes with modern interpretations, creating a unique fusion of old and new. This blend of tradition and innovation was both inspiring and educational. Living in different cultural contexts has enriched my design perspective, offering a range of influences and approaches that I continue to draw from in my work.

When working with companies, I typically start by understanding their needs and objectives. This involves discussing their vision, goals, and any specific requirements they have for the project. I then collaborate closely with them throughout the design process, providing updates and seeking feedback to ensure the design aligns with their expectations. My approach includes thorough research, creative brainstorming, and iterative design to refine and perfect the final product.

When working with a designer, companies should start by clearly defining their goals and expectations for the project. It’s important to look for a designer whose style and skills align with your vision and needs. Reviewing their portfolio can give you a sense of their work quality and versatility. Open communication is key — make sure to discuss your ideas, provide feedback, and keep the dialogue ongoing throughout the project. Finally, consider a designer’s experience and references to ensure they have a proven track record of delivering successful outcomes.

My design process starts with research to understand the project and its goals. Then, I move on to sketching and brainstorming ideas. After that, I explore different concepts and gather feedback from clients. Finally, I refine the design based on the feedback to make sure everything aligns perfectly.

Some of my favorite design items at home are my coffee machine, the Benq Halo monitor lamp, my MacBook, and my soft couch. I also absolutely love the mountain view from my window, even though it's not designed — it's a beautiful addition to my space.

A typical day for me starts with a nice cup of coffee to get going. I usually spend about 10 minutes doing yoga to get centered before jumping into work. My day is filled with working on design projects and collaborating with clients and colleagues to bring ideas to life. In the evening, I really look forward to having something special for dinner with my family, whether it's trying out a new recipe or just enjoying a favorite meal. Before bed, I unwind with a relaxing face care routine.

Keep doing what you love and don’t be afraid to show your work and ask for feedback. Stay curious and passionate about what you do. Aim to make just a small bit of progress each day — 1% can make a big difference over time. Keep going and keep growing!

On the bright side, it's incredibly rewarding to see the impact of your work and how it can make a difference. The design community is vibrant and supportive, making it easy to connect with others who share your passion. However, there are also challenges. Every piece of work often carries a personal touch, which can make criticism feel more impactful. Imposter syndrome can creep in, leading to doubts about your skills. It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others, which can sometimes be disheartening.

y focusing on clear, simple solutions, ensure that the design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, making it more impactful and accessible for everyone.

Curiosity is super important because it keeps you exploring new ideas and staying up-to-date with trends. Being open to the world helps you gather inspiration from all sorts of places and tackle different design challenges. Good communication is crucial too, so you can work well with clients and team members and make sure everyone’s on the same page. And of course, passion is what drives your creativity and dedication, making you excited about your projects and pushing through any obstacles.

n my design toolbox, Adobe Suite is my mainstay — Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects, and InDesign are the tools I rely on most. I also use Figma for interface design and prototyping. My MacBook is essential for everything I do, and I often use a high-quality graphics tablet for more detailed work. Books and resources are really important for keeping inspired and learning new things, so I have a collection of design books and regularly check out Pinterest for fresh ideas.

Oh, time management can be a bit tricky for me. I get so wrapped up in the design process that I sometimes lose track of time and dive deeper into projects than I initially planned. Procrastination also creeps in, especially when I’m faced with a blank canvas and finding it hard to get started. I’m constantly working on finding a better balance between enjoying the creative process and staying on track with my time.

The time it takes to design an object really depends on the project. It could be as quick as a few hours or as long as several months. Each project and client is different, so the timeline can vary quite a bit

The most frequently asked question I get is often, "What kind of design do you specialize in?" Sometimes, I also get asked if I do interior design, but my main focus is on graphic and visual design.

One of my most important job experiences was transitioning from freelance work to a permanent role at a Canadian design agency. It was a significant shift that allowed me to work on larger projects and collaborate with a diverse team of professionals.

I’ve had the pleasure of working with a variety of clients, including both small businesses and larger organizations.

I really enjoy packaging design because it's exciting to see the final product on the shelves in grocery stores.

Looking ahead, I want to concentrate on consumer goods and packaging, and continue building my career here in Canada. I’m excited about the opportunities to explore new projects and further develop my expertise in these areas.

I work as part of a team, collaborating closely with a Creative Director, strategist, copywriter, and account managers.

I’m currently working on some font designs, which are like my lifelong projects. They’re something I’m deeply passionate about, but I often wish I had more patience to see them through to completion.

May email is always open for new contacts, so don't hesitate to say "Hello": data.poshta@gmail.com

Nothing to add. Thanks for inviting me for this interview