I'm a storyteller and a problem solver. Figuring out how to communicate with visuals is my favourite kind of challenge. I love coming up with that picture that's worth 1000 words.
I studied graphic design at OCAD University and graduated with a bachelors degree in 2011. Since then, I've had the privilege of working at a number of ad agencies, design studios, PR and tech companies in creative marketing roles.
My love of design was founded in web design as a teenager. I stumbled upon HTML and CSS at the age of 13, and once I realized I could make web pages look however I wanted with a few keystrokes, I quickly set about learning everything I could about web design. As I taught myself to code, I also created graphics - first with Microsoft Paint, then Jasc Paint Shop Pro 7, and eventually Adobe Photoshop. I continued designing and teaching myself code for fun throughout high school and when it came time to pick a post-secondary program, I had to choose between development and design. But it wasn't a hard choice: I get accepted to OCAD U for graphic design, and never looked back.
I started my career client-side and eventually moved into Art Director roles within advertising, then expored working in PR, tech, and boutique design, working on B2B and B2C brands. My experience in working for a variety of clients and industries has made me a more thoughtful creative and designer overall, with a greater understanding of marketing strategy and how to understand and create solutions for our users and customers.
I also run the Toronto Design Directory, an online resource and community hub for graphic designers in Toronto. Under that umbrella I host a regular arts events like art and design talks, portfolio reviews, and art shows. I also created and run the Freelance Designer Directory, a platform for GTA freelance designers to showcase their skills and connect with local businesses and brands.
*
Branding & Identity
Art Direction
Web Design
Editorial Design
Illustration
Infographics
On-set direction
HTML & CSS
*
Winner of Silver Davey Award (website: sustainability) for Ecology & Society, 2023
Winner of Silver Davey Award (website: science) for Ecology & Society, 2023
Familiar with Figma, Sketch, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Wordpress, Webflow, and AODA (accessibility) requirements for print and web.
*
Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design
OCAD University, 2011.
Margot holds dual citizenship in both Canada and the United Kingdom and is legally eligible for work in both countries. She currently lives in Toronto, Canada.
*
2011 - Present:
Senior Designer, Square
Senior Designer, Office/Bureau
Senior Art Director, H+K Strategies
Instructor, Toronto Film School
Art Director, Publicis
Art Director, Juniper Park\TBWA
Designer, Critical Mass
Designer, Indigo Books & Music
Lead Designer, Blue Ant Media
Designer, WIND Mobile