Design Studio Spotlight | Mill Executive Producer Becca Jones discusses the world of design
Tell us a bit about yourself; how did you get into design?
I started my career as a 3D animator, having studied Animation at the University of Hertfordshire and Art and Design. I’ve always loved design in all forms and have been enticed by the processes involved. As an EP (Executive Producer) in Animation and Design, I feel I’m as close to these processes as I could ever wish to be.
What are some of your favourite projects you’ve worked on throughout your career?
During my time at The Mill, I’ve been able to work on so many incredible projects and I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. What is most interesting to me with design and animation projects is having the freedom to create unique characters and worlds. I recently loved producing two playful spots for Dairy Queen with the incredible director duo Left Shoe Lost; I’ve also enjoyed working on a fully cel-animated music video ‘Hallucinate’ for Dua Lipa with our very own Lisha Tan directing.
Are you currently working on any personal projects?
Always! I create bespoke illustrated wedding invitations and watercolour prints, & most recently started illustrating a Children’s book in my spare time. Once again, I love all the variations of design and how each project, whether it be personal or for work, can provide its own unique look and feel.
What current design trends do you admire the most / is there anyone or any Instagram pages inspiring you at the moment?
One of my favourite design trends is using traditional art mediums to feature modern-day elements or situations. I love @leahgardner.art for her dreamy oil paintings and embroidery artist @elliemac.embroidery, who features surprising objects you wouldn’t expect to see on a table cloth or napkin, a pile of cigarette butts or a seafood platter. Random, but I love it.
What trends do you see growing throughout 2022?
There’s been an increase in demand for weird and wonderful adult animation that we’re starting to see more frequently in advertising – it feels like we’re embracing the wacky “never seen before” content both in terms of the adult, off the wall themes as well as look and feel. For example, the latest Love, Death and Robots feature eclectic animation styles that are often sinister, wacky or otherworldly.
What are you listening to?
My music taste is so varied, I know that sounds cliche, but it is. I’m currently listening to many Radiohead, QOTSA and Bonobo; they’re all part of my daily ritual. I’ve recently fallen in love with Kendrick Lamar’s music, particularly his latest album. If you haven’t already, it’s worth a listen.
Interested in joining The Mill Design Studio? Explore career opportunities here. You can also get in touch with our Design Team about your upcoming projects via our contact page.
