Graphic designer looking for internship experience

[Koukouvaya]

Hello there!

I'm a graphic artist looking to move into surface pattern design as a freelance designer. I would appreciate advice from anyone in the fashion, textile, or design industry. I am serious enough to work an unpaid internship if the travel distance isn't too prohibitive. I have a portfolio and am extremely hard working. I'm in South London/Cardiff depending on the time of year

I have a very clear idea of what I wish to achieve with this career, and am moving towards it, but its a bit like charging down a pitch black road, i don't know what to do next!

I believe I especially need ot learn more about physical print processes and how the various business is conducted.

I have a large list of references and would love to enter into a mentoring relationship!

Thank you kindly.

 

[Zeal]

Hi Koukouvaya,
Welcome to the forums!

Firstly,
• Do not email people asking for vacancies
• Do not call people up
• Do not send letters to people

They are 'too many' designers. It's pretty easy to navigate the likes of photoshop / illustrator.... but to call your self a designer because they can do that is... well.. hummm

Because of this, the amount of emails / phone calls / letters what design businesses get about jobs is through the roof.


What I'd suggest if I was you:

• Create a nice, professional looking portfolio with your work in. Be creative with this.
• Find a nice way to present the work.. some sort of presentation folder.
• Physically, go round each of the design agencies in your area and speak with them face to face. Be prepared to leave your CV. Leave copies of your portfolio too....
• Leaving copies of your portfolio can be costly, but how much do you value working in the industry?


To me, this is by far the best way to approach such businesses. They can quickly see if your a "real or fake" designer.


Hope this helped.