A Freelance Designer

Creating Impactful Designs Across Disciplines

my approach

My blend of expertise, spanning the spectrum of visual communication, provides great value to the projects I undertake.

I believe in leveraging my design skills and creativity to contribute towards positive change for people and place.

I create work that helps clients solve problems, promote products, build brands, curate experiences, and raise awareness.

Designer drawing on digital tablet
Who You'll be Joining Forces With

Your Creative Partner

Hello,
I'm Kirsty Hickman

The creative mind behind Hickman Design.

Located in the picturesque Royal Deeside, my home studio in Banchory is where creativity takes place.

I share my home with my cuddle-loving cocker spaniel, Elle, and my adventurous paragliding husband, Andy.

As a passionate graphic designer, I’m on a mission to create impactful designs and unique visual storytelling experiences.

my values

the codes I design by

Design with Purpose

Prioritise projects that contribute positively, making a difference however big or small.

Design with Passion

Produce design solutions tailored to your project’s needs, with quality and value at every step.

Design with Consideration

Practice and promote, environmentally friendly and sustainable design choices to minimise impact.

Design with Collaboration

Encourage client collaboration throughout the design process, establishing trusted partnerships.

collaboration

Collaboration lies at the heart of my approach. When you embark on a project with me, you become an active partner throughout the process, sharing insights and feedback.

Valuing client relationships, I work collaboratively to understand your needs. I am dedicated to helping you achieve long-term goals and supporting growth. Building enduring connections enables me to deliver compelling, measurable results.

As a small company, I appreciate connections with industry professionals, who bring expertise in areas such as Photography, Videography, and Copywriting when necessary. This network ensures a tailored approach, elevating project outcomes.

community

I am passionate about using my creativity and skills for positive change.

Having had the privilege of assisting charities, social enterprises, improvement districts, and councils in various projects that contribute to a positive local impact, I am eager to extend my support.

If your initiatives are making a positive difference in nature, for people, or within communities, I am here to help!

Recognition
PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND

Navigating Sectors

Shaping Stories

Championing Causes

As a seasoned multidisciplinary designer, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating across diverse sectors, both as a freelancer and in staff positions – from local councils, community projects and charities to independent businesses.

I proudly graduated Gray’s School of Art with honours in 2010. After that, I refined my practice in Graphic Design at a consultancy firm. Later, I explored spatial design and UI/UX design, whilst freelancing in Graphic Design.

In 2015, I founded my design business. Along the way, I’ve used the power of design to add a dash of creativity to town centre regeneration, support and promote events, champion various causes, and contribute to the growth of independent businesses.

Branding Producers' Market Event
For Rediscover Peterhead
Designing Campaign Material
For River Dee Trust
Designing Packaging
For Highland Boundary
life after hours

artistic exploration

outdoor adventures

environmental advocacy

My life beyond work, is filled with artistic exploration, outdoor adventures, and environmental advocacy, which deeply influences my creativity.

Outdoor experiences, like hiking and running in nature, offer moments for reflection and rejuvenation.

Engaging in both contemporary and traditional arts and crafts, along with frequent visits to galleries, serves as a source of inspiration. 

Volunteering at The Barn Arts, my local arts centre, connects me with a creative community.

My passion for understanding environmental causes and the natural world enhances my ability to support clients in these fields through deep understanding and appreciation.

Hill Walking with Elle
Lino Printing
Identifying Fungi
Running Events
Engaging In Environmental Advocacy
Paper Cutting
learn more about how I can help you