Meet rising graphic design star Poppy Campbell

Poppy Campbell started graphic design just a few years ago, but has recently caught the eye of creative directors and influencers around the world. Now with her Instagram account 'bypoppy_' reaching over 15k followers & her work being posted by Vogue Hong Kong, her momentum is showing no sign of stopping.

I am lucky enough to call this talented designer my close friend and we got together recently for a photoshoot and interview.

What made you begin graphic design?

I kind of stumbled into graphic design after switching my majors at uni. I always wanted to pursue a career in film & T.V but getting older and realising the scarcity of jobs in that industry pushed me to explore another path - I ultimately decided to give graphic design a go. The first year of the course I did not enjoy so much but now I am nearing the end and have a lot more creative freedom and confidence.

You have a very distinct style, how did you develop this?

I started to explore photoshop around 2 years ago and begun experimenting with pictures, I soon realised that I enjoyed collage art and turning beautiful photographs into images that were unexpected and vastly different from the original. From the beginning I knew I wanted to maintain a certain style and vibe, so that if people saw an image they would have an idea that I made it. I think my style just developed through trial and error, also just how my mind works and staying authentic to myself. Although I think it is important to develop graphic design styles over time - I would hope the style of my work is not the exact same in 5 years.

Where do you get your inspiration from for your designs?

Inspiration can really come from anywhere - the amazing designers on instagram, Pinterest, even just everyday surroundings can spark an idea.

What is your favourite design you have made?

I love the design featuring Sami Miro (see below). Even though I made this really quickly not thinking much of it I really love the end product. It is also the first time I created the ‘By Poppy’ sticker that I use on most of my designs so it is extra special.

You post all your designs on Instagram and is where you do most of your marketing for them, how fundamental has social been in growing your graphic design career and widening your audience?

Social media has been massive in growing my audience, it is a really great tool for getting your work out there when you have little experience in the industry. I have been able to connect with people all over the world and work together just from exposure on instagram.

Describe the feeling once your account started blowing up. How did it feel to be recognised for your awesome work?

It felt amazing and even better to be able to reach out to incredibly successful and creative designers for advice and insight.

Instagram is filled with other designers posting their work everyday, how do you stop yourself from comparing to others and stay true to your style?

I don’t compare myself too often to other designers as we are all on our own paths and have talents lying in different areas. I definitely gain inspiration from others but my style is just how I create so it would be pretty hard to stop being true to that.

Looking forward, what are your hopes for your graphic design career/which direction do you see yourself going into?

For now I am enjoying working creatively with a bit of commercial work. I have no idea where the future will take me but I would love to work on the fashion side of things. Designing clothing, social media content for clothing - anything fashion related with a brand I am passionate about would be amazing.

Who is someone you would love to notice your work?

If The Weeknd or Bella Hadid noticed my existence I would die happy.

UPDATE:

Since this interview went live, I am excited to announce that Bella Hadid has privately messaged Poppy on Instagram, telling her that she loves her work! Bella has also posted one of Poppy's designers (See the image above) to her own Instagram account, which has almost 40 million followers.

What are you working on at the moment?

Mostly social media content for brands which I really love. Also something exciting that I can post about in a couple of months!

What advice do you have for aspiring graphic designers?

Stay true to yourself and create stuff that you like not what you think others will. Try and find your niche and develop a personal style you are confident with.

You can find Poppy on Instagram and Pinterest!