Five questions for creatives

Anna Piecha

Anna Piecha is a graphic designer based in St Neots who graduated from the Fine Art Academy in Poland in 2011. And has developed her skills as an artist and graphic designer. With over ten years of experience she has open mind for the new experiences and positive flair for the future adventures.  In years 2009 – 2015 she had several individual and group exhibitions, where she presented her graphics and paintings.

Anna is a dreamer, her passion is art: intaglio prints, painting and drawing. She is a design lover: digital art, illustration, visual communication. She is also expanding her knowledge in UX Design. She is looking for an opportunity to work with a creative people.

How did you get into the creative industry, and was there a defining point in your career that led you on that path?

My story started in high school when I had to make my first serious decision who I want to be when I grew up? I knew, that as much as I appreciate everything I was learning, I had to break free and do what I love. I decided that I would study fine art and had an intensive three years of preparation — first art courses, learning history of art and design, as well completing a course in psychology, sociology and interior design. I also spent one year in University of Rzeszów on Faculty of Art, studying visual arts. After three years I went to the Fine Art Academy in Katowice and loved it. After my graduation, which took place in the Ruins of “Victoria” Theatre in Gliwice, I was presented over 50 intaglio prints and so I finally had a Master of Art degree. I decided to have an internship at the Academy. I was a teaching assistant in Intermedia and Digital Graphic workshop. I had several exhibitions solo and group presentations of my works. After six months of internship I decided to come to UK.

A defining point? I just like structures and I love creating art. The moment when the light is on the broken part of the bricks. Changing the real wall into the various interesting image, full of layers and hidden in the shadow stories. The elements not seen previously or the beauty of contrasting colors on the empty space surface. So many inspirations are allover. Just look around.

Is there anything you would change in your current career and if so why?

I do not think I would change anything — the experience and learning that the hard work brings results is much, and was a necessary lesson to be learned. I do not regret anything, as the point where I am now is a result of all the previous choices.

That said I have just recently quit my full-time job in Cambridge as a domestic supervisor and decided to create time for myself and to complete a UX and graphic design course. 
I’ve made this leap as an investment for the future and to allow myself to find a job in an area that I love.

Where do you see yourself, and your career in five years time?

One of my favourite questions — I can see myself in a big house with a studio where I can create art and I see myself working with people who have the same purpose of creating a good, well-designed products. In a place which is worth being and doing work, that is worth doing. I am a dreamer and my aspirations are based on values and authentic and true needs.

Are there any rules or habits that help you do your job more efficiently?

Of course, the goal. If you are, devoted to the case. You are, motivated enough to develop, expand your horizon, to repeat things, to learn and to be better. A good coffee also helps in this matter.

What tips would you give to anybody who is looking to get started in the creative industry?

To stay positive and keep on fighting. To stay open and not be afraid to take a risk. To allow yourself to make a mistakes, but only if you will learn from them. To change the world in the best possible moment and time, which is – now. To not to lose the naivety of being true and not to stop dreaming and be you, be someone you would like to get to know.