Alina Rodionova and Olga Pozharova: "We focus on areas where we can develop our vision and be in demand"

Contents:

• About support in the team
• About the nearest forecasts
• About new niches
• Advice for those who remained in Russia

In this episode, we discussed key solutions that need to be implemented during the crisis with A-2-O Studio designers Alina Rodionova and Olga Pozharova. We also explored the design industry's development prospects and the unexpected opportunities that may arise in the current climate. The designers shared their experiences and vision of the future, which will help them adapt and find new paths to growth in a changing world.

The founders of the A-2-O design studio have extensive experience and deep knowledge in the field of design. Their team joined forces to create a unique studio that offers innovative solutions in the field of graphic and web design. The founders bring their creativity and professionalism to the studio, allowing them to successfully implement projects of varying complexity. A-2-O Studio strives to create original and functional designs that help clients stand out in the market and achieve their business goals.

On support in the team

After February 24, we faced a period of confusion: it was difficult to focus, avoid panic, and start moving forward. Support within the team played a significant role in this process. We are, first and foremost, friends, so we devote time to communication and discussing topics that concern us. We share useful articles and podcasts, which helps us cope with nervous tension and stress. Mutual support and open communication have become important tools for overcoming difficulties and maintaining morale.

We have formed an effective team in which each member understands one another and works as a unit. We share a common interest in creative development, which plays a key role in a situation of significant change. This interaction and understanding allow us to adapt and successfully cope with the challenges posed by the environment.

There have been few changes in our work, but our internal state has changed significantly. Since the end of last year, we decided to focus on developing new skills, which has positively impacted our professional activity and overall level of competence. This decision has become the basis for further growth and improvement of the quality of our work.

About the near future

In an unstable environment, making forecasts is becoming extremely difficult, as new changes occur every week. Alina, a lecturer at the British Higher School of Art and Design, notes that their institution has collaborated with the University of Hertfordshire in England for 19 years. However, following recent events, the university decided to temporarily suspend the validation of British higher education programs in Russia. This decision has significantly impacted students and faculty, creating uncertainty in the educational process and the future of degrees. We have completed our studies at Britanka and recognize that it was a unique opportunity to receive an education in Russia under the British system, which emphasizes in-depth research, project work, and practical knowledge. The school plans to offer alternative solutions for students in the near future. This situation highlights how the new reality is affecting both experienced designers and those just beginning their careers in the profession.

The isolation of the creative industry from the outside world does not produce positive results. It is important to open new horizons and use the crisis as an opportunity for development. Creative professionals must adapt to change, find new approaches and formats to not only survive but also thrive in an unstable environment. Opening new doors can lead to innovation and fresh ideas that contribute to growth.

There are difficulties with access to design software in the country. We currently have a license, but the future is uncertain. There are rumors about the possibility of renewing the Adobe license through official partners in Russia, but this information needs to be further verified. As an alternative, you can consider the free online editor Photopea, which can temporarily replace Photoshop for basic tasks.

About new niches

Currently, we are focused on the implementation of creative projects and continue to work on design at a leisurely pace. We've welcomed back a client we haven't worked with before, opening up new opportunities for collaboration.

We're changing our focus and focusing on developing a product photography portfolio. Our goal is to attract clients interested in this field. We'll develop and offer unique ideas and mood boards for projects that interest us. We began exploring this segment before the crisis, as we enjoy experimenting with materials and textures, selecting objects, and creating original shoots for them.

Since founding our studio, we've focused on presenting final works and showcasing them in our portfolio, developing unique sets and shoot concepts. For our duo, developing a photography career was a logical and natural progression. Our interest in photography has always been intertwined with our passion for graphic design, and we prefer to work on applied projects such as textiles, children's products, and book covers. This allows us to create harmonious and visually appealing solutions that stand out in the market.

We recently collaborated with a Russian brand, developing pattern collections for children's clothing and home textiles. Each collection took about a year to create, and receiving samples was a joy, as we could see and feel the results of our painstaking work. In the future, we intend to focus on areas where we can realize our ideas, be in demand, and enjoy the creative process.

We plan to continue developing the pattern design trend in graphic design and implement projects for children. We also hope to attract new clients interested in set design, in particular local brands from the beauty industry, home goods, and accessories manufacturers. Our team is ready to offer creative and unique solutions that will help businesses stand out in the market and attract the attention of their target audience.

Advice for those remaining in Russia

In today's world, it is important to focus on your own hobbies and develop in the areas that truly interest you. This not only contributes to personal development but also allows you to build a stable client base. Having such a base provides the opportunity to work from anywhere in the world, which opens up new horizons and freedom in your professional work. By developing your skills and interests, you can attract the attention of your target audience and strengthen your position in the market.

We recommend focusing your efforts on participating in competitions and creative collaborations. This is the perfect time to unite, experiment, and find like-minded people to create joint projects, especially in the field of charity. We are also currently looking for a product retoucher and would be glad to meet new people and partner with them.