Yes, I’ll have a go.

And? What is your secret?

You are welcome to know. I absorb all Word documents and technical drawings, but do not use them as a starting point.

I approach things from the other side

I say, “suppose your reader sees this” and then I sketch the big picture AND tasty details on a sheet. Right in front of you.

Pooh, they’re going to find that a bit too exciting for comfort.

I can hear them thinking: ‘a designer, tinkering with our life’s work’. Yes, I would also prefer to write down everything. But hey, common stuff like websites, animations or powerpoints require a new format for your work.

And they let you get away with that?

Yes, because I like precise people, they notice right away. And I don’t talk design-talk or use post-its. That will make you all very happy, I’d say.

How did you come to do this work?

I was given an impossible assignment a long time ago. There had to be 3 events in Dutch history depicted on 3 stamps. Within 3 weeks. The post people said “we called you because we thought you would say yes”. I was quite offended. Wasn’t their choice based on my design talent? But they meant: there is a library full of material, who dares to cast it in 24×36 millimeters? Yes, I’ll have a go at that.

What’s it called, your job?

Designing, editing, visualization. It’s all about selecting and presenting valuable knowledge. Because knowledge is richess only when it reaches its audience. Think of me as a mediator, between your fortress of knowledge and all those people outside the gate.

I just make sure everyone understands you.

Is that a promise?

Haha, everyone has a brand promise these days, so yes, that’s mine. I’d rather say: I just come and make something.
Making, that’s where it all begins.