Charlie Garrod Studio | The making of: James Taylor

The making of:
James Taylor

Nov 1, 2024 | 4 min read

Happy Friday everyone, I’m excited to bring you another post in ‘The making of’ series. This is an interview series where I’ll be exploring the diverse and dynamic world of design by speaking with creatives from all corners of the industry. From full-time professionals to freelancers and business owners, I’ll be featuring a wide range of voices—each offering their own unique insights into their craft. By diving into the complexities and talents that define the design world, my goal is to share a comprehensive and nuanced perspective of the industry.

Today features James Taylor, Creative Director at The Cabinet. James has had a long varied career working for top international agencies, freelancing and running his own businesses so it was great to get a chance to discuss all this and more with him.

Charlie Garrod – Hi James, thanks for taking the time for this chat, how are you doing?

James Taylor – I’m overworked and under-loved Charlie, same as usual.

CG – Ha! So starting off what led you to pursue a career in design?

JT – I wanted a job with a weekend. My parents were both shift workers and that didn’t seem fun at all. They made it abundantly clear to me that the pathway to a happier working life was via university and luckily the fees weren’t too high at that time and a student loan could cover it. I always had a natural interest in art and so eventually design revealed itself as an option.

Behind the scenes development for Posh Cow by Dearness Only.

CG – Based on your experience at large firms like Brandopus and Pearlfisher versus your freelancing career, what do you consider to be the main benefits and challenges of each approach?

JT – Working permanent is wonderful, you’re part of a team, and you improve your skills, and your network. Of course, you’re working for somebody else though and that might not jive with some. Freelancing allows you to take August off, and work where you want. You get no sick pay or job security though. Do both, see what works.

CG – What inspired you to start Dearness Only?

JT – Thinking that I’m always right. I really enjoy being in charge of the creative so I prematurely set up an agency with a few small clients to see if I’m always right. I am not, I still do not have many regrets though.

Beautiful brush strokes created for Ukiyo by Dearness Only.

CG – I can see from your work that you love to make things with your hands, where did this passion for the craft come from?

JT – My art education was very broad from textiles to life drawing, ceramics to CAD and so that hands-on ‘you can do it yourself’ idea has stuck. Also, I feel an entirely digital process can lead to homogenised results.

CG – In what ways do you inspire yourself to create design?

JT – Deadlines. Money. Ego. Walking. Talking with my wife and stealing her ideas.

Work for Badger Beer created by Dearness Only.

CG – You recently moved back into agency life with The Cabinet, what was the transition like?

JT – Equal parts challenge and fun I’d say. I had forgotten the pleasure of a team and studio banter. We’ve had a challenging year like many businesses but we’re here and doing some great work.

CG – Can you describe your typical day as a designer? Are there any specific rituals or habits that support your work?

JT – I try to get to work about half an hour early to prepare for the day. Write feedback on any projects, reply to emails, write briefs, drink coffee. I always try to look at thisiscolossal.com as well, it’s a brilliant art blog. The day thereafter is a mix of reviewing work, scheduling, client meetings… I’ve been doing design work more often lately which I’m really happy about.

Fun project for Posh Cow by Dearness Only.

CG – Has your work style evolved since the pandemic?

JT – No, save for the more common video meeting. Nearly 80% of my client meetings are digital. My work style is still think>sketch>computerise>doubt everything>panic>present.

CG – What strategies do you use to maintain a healthy work-life balance?

JT – I don’t, I work 12-16 hour days and really struggle to maintain relationships, friendships, hobbies and health.

Behind the scenes and packaging for Spruce by Dearness Only.

CG – Do you have a preferred setting or environment for your work?

JT – The morning has always been very fertile for me. I also adore working alone in pubs. Lastly, on my feet, pacing really helps with ideas.

CG – Which recent project are you most proud of?

JT – Johnnie Walker Black Label Squid Game comes to mind even though I joined it half way through. Working with the teams at Netflix and Diageo to arrive somewhere where all were satisfied was joyous. Furthermore, as a designer, getting the chance to redress the iconic striding man was a career highlight.

The Cabinet’s recent limited edition bottle in collaboration with Netflix’s Squid Game.

CG – What advice would you offer to an aspiring creative?

JT – Advice is tough, it depends on the person but there are a few general ideas I try to work by.

1 – Stay off inspiration websites for as long as you can at the beginning of a project, don’t cloud your mind with other people’s work.

2 – Have a reason for every choice in your work, everything should support an idea.

3- Do NOT develop a ‘style’

Gorgeous photoshoot and behind the scenes featuring a linocut for Wild Meds by Dearness Only.

CG – What are your career objectives for the future?

JT – I don’t think about it too much. Probably continue being a creative director until they take me out back and put me down. Maybe teaching, who knows?

–

Thanks so much to James for taking the time to chat with me, be sure to check out thecabinetagency.com

Like this post?

Check out more of my content here:

Tagged Blog

Like this post?

Get in Touch!