I completed a Domestika course – ‘Transforming your Creative Ideas into Personal Projects‘ taught by Ji Lee, former Creative Director at Facebook, Google, and the advertising agency Droga5. He’s the instigator of several similar projects which have grown exponentially, including the heartwarming instagram account; his parents’ drawing project: Drawings for my Grandchildren.

His approach taught through this course, inspired a number of my own personal projects, especially during the Pandemic. These included ‘Photographing the Thames at Hammersmith’, ‘Painting the Andover Estate’ and ‘Drawing East-End Flowers’. Explore these at the links below.

I’ve noticed that a key ingredient of all my personal projects has been a distinct sense of place, coupled with reflection and exploration of a certain locale – with all the changing aspects that become apparent through observing and inhabiting those spaces.

Ji Lee emphasised that many of his personal projects have opened up new opportunities for him professionally. Similarly I’ve been fortunate to sell work to clients which I created as a result of these personal projects, and demonstrate interests and skills which have opened doors for me as a freelancer.

© Alexandra Noel – all rights reserved 2024