Why Arden
Find out who we are and why Arden is the choice for students worldwide.
About John
John Patterson is a UK based designer from Sedbergh, Cumbria, whose work explores branding, packaging, and visual identity across both digital and print. His projects reflect a strong attention to detail and materiality, combining structured design principles with textured, analogue influences drawn from his surroundings.
John Patterson
City & Country: Sedbergh, Cumbria, UK
Project Overview
What’s your project all about?
Each of these projects offered an opportunity to communicate a distinct set of brand values – from creating a new pet food brand from scratch, to working within the framework of an existing identity for Fedrigoni.
Project Showcase
Social media posts created for Self-Promotion and Packaging module This module involved developing a personal brand and promoting it through various digital and offline channels.
Brand identity and packaging designs
Promotional leaflet. The brief for this project was to create a visual identity and packaging designs for a gourmet pet food brand.
Concept and high fidelity prototype, PAUSE device stand
This project was an opportunity to design a printed promotional piece for the Italian paper manufacturer Fedrigoni. My illustration is based on a 19th-centruy wood engraving known as the Flammarion Engraving.
Inspiration & Aspirations
What Inspires You?
I love the strict grid layouts of Josef Müller-Brockmann and the pharmaceutical packaging of Fred Troller, but I’m also inspired by the rougher, analogue techniques of British designer Chris Ashworth. I enjoy using found textures in my work – everything from concrete and metal surfaces to the lichen-covered walls of the Cumbrian countryside where I live.
What’s Next?
I’m currently focused on improving my skills in motion graphics and 3D design, with the goal of working as an in-house or freelance motion designer.
Why Arden?
What Makes Studying at Arden Special?
Distance learning at Arden gave me the flexibility to work part-time while completing my degree. The tutors have been fantastic – knowledgeable, supportive, and always positive and encouraging. I’ve made some great friends along the way.
Words of Wisdom
Your Advice to Future Design & Creativity Students
Regular feedback and Zoom sessions make the course feel genuinely supportive throughout. If you’re unsure about which aspect of design you’d like to specialise in, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore different directions and choose your own briefs.
