It's my honor to interview and introduce Haley Stonecipher, UI Designer and newest team member at Foster Made!
A: In an indirect way, I guess. In short, I fell in love with photography early on and was an avid reader. I eventually figured out that graphic design could bring those two interests (words and images) together for me in an exciting way and one thing led to another. There were plenty of other interests that drew me into design as well, from architecture and interior design, to signage and wayfinding systems, furniture making and fashion. It seems that graphic design can touch almost everything.
Generally speaking, I like to think of graphic design as a very broad discipline and UI design as a focused subset. I imagine if you asked a group of designers about the difference between UI and graphic design you'd get a number of answers—probably more specific than mine.
A: I really enjoy sewing—clothes, mostly, but also random things for the house. Painting has also been fun for me lately. Most of my creative outlets give me time away from screens and a chance to use my hands. That balance is really important to me!
A: Hmmm. I had the opportunity to sell little paintings at a holiday market this winter. I was super awkward and anxious the whole time, but every single painting sold which was exciting. Since it’s just a hobby, I didn’t have a website or business cards, and I only initialed the pieces. In an industry (and culture) where everything is branded, I love that there are things that I’ve made out in the world that aren’t or can’t be tied back to me directly.
A: I love, love, love figuring out and documenting process. Even if it’s not in the job description, that’s something I always tend to do—and in the end it makes my work easier.
A: Personally, I think it’s helpful to look across industries. What is happening in fashion, interior design, architecture, industrial design, and the visual arts? I don’t think I have one go-to source to see what’s going on, or to gather inspiration. Also, it’s helpful to acknowledge cultural currents in design, and it’s important to know what is possible, but I tend to be wary of trends. I feel like if being on-trend is a goal, you’re probably always going to be a step behind.
A: I’ve been really excited about gardening lately. I have a little sun deck in Durham that is perfect for a container garden. I also run occasionally. I've fallen out of practice but I’m eager to get back into a rhythm with it.
A: Ha, so many questions! I’ve lived in four states. Vermont is my home state and it is definitely the place that resonates the most with me. I’m from a little town called Burke and I highly recommend visiting, especially in the summer or fall, if you’re into trail running and mountain biking.
North Carolina is cool, too. I love the mountains. Dupont State Forest and Nantahala National Forest hold a very special place in my heart. I have been to Biltmore but remember being underwhelmed. Definitely NC beaches.
A: I’d probably try to build a tiny house. I have too many hobbies/things to actually live in a place like that, but it would be fun to use on visits or rent out.
A: Natalie Portman. Background character. Murder mystery.
A: Ravenclaw in my dreams, but Squib is more likely.
A: I always choose based on the people I’m playing with! I try to guess what their go-to move is and then choose accordingly. It definitely doesn’t work every time, but I’m always satisfied when it does.
A: Definitely freeze-tag. But actually, I just want to play Kubb.
A: I do! Their names are Gustav and Cleo. Both are indoor cats, but I do have a cat leash that we use on occasion. Cleo is my gal. I'll defer to the sorting hat for their placement.
A: More Jelly Beans.
A: Ha! It’s a good one. I don’t have a favorite cipher, but I do really love rocks. I tend to collect them from places I’ve been. I’m not sure how or why that started, but you’ll find little rock collections all over my house. I’ve had to start keeping them out of reach though, because…cats. Black pumice makes me smile the most at the moment.
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