We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Filippos Fragkogiannis a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Filippos, appreciate you joining us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

Starting my freelance business was driven by a strong desire for autonomy and self-sufficiency in my career. After graduating from Vakalo Art and Design College in Athens, I was drawn to the prospect of being an independent designer. The freedom to set my own schedule and pursue my own interests within the creative industry was rather intriguing.



Throughout my visual communication studies, I was constantly driven to refine my skills and explore intricate tasks and cultural insights. This exploration not only solidified my identity as a graphic designer but also illuminated the path towards freelance work. 

Taking responsibility has always been intrinsic to my character.

For me, it’s more than a chance to demonstrate my abilities; it’s an opportunity to make a meaningful impact through my work. Owning the creative process not only gives me purpose but also enriches every aspect of my workdays.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Based in Athens, Greece, I am an independent graphic designer and art director with a focus on impactful visual communication. My expertise spans branding, editorial design, print advertising, and social media content. By merging creativity with hands-on experience, I aim to elevate the visibility of individuals, startups, and established businesses through purposeful design solutions.

My approach is distinctively centered on typography and language. I emphasize simplicity and clarity, ensuring that each design element contributes to a cohesive visual narrative. By exploring the nuances of words, symbols, and the interplay of shapes and colors, I create designs that are both impactful and memorable, effectively conveying their intended messages.

One of my notable achievements is the development and launch of Vercetti Regular, a free sans-serif font created in collaboration with type designer Richard Mandona. Released on September 8, 2022, Vercetti is available for both personal and commercial use. The meticulous design and refinement processes of this font have been profoundly rewarding, and it has become a cherished resource within the creative community and beyond.

Though I am not typically one for quotes, one attributed to statesman and printer Benjamin Franklin has always resonated with me: “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” I appreciate this quote for its simple yet profound reminder of the value of dedicating time and resources to expanding one’s knowledge and capabilities. It underscores the empowering nature of education, not just as a pathway to success but as a cornerstone for personal growth and joy. For me, it encapsulates the importance of continuous learning and the endless possibilities it brings.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The way art mirrors our deepest thoughts has always fascinated me. It inspires introspection and cultivates self-awareness, offering a unique and powerful form of expression. My career in the visual arts provides me with a sense of freedom and flexibility that I’m genuinely grateful for. Another great perk is the privacy it affords—I can immerse myself in my own creative space, surrounded by familiar tools and materials, which fuels my creativity and allows me to delve deeply into my work without distractions. This fosters intimacy and authenticity in my creative process, creating a deep connection with the art that I love.

For me, pursuing art and design isn’t about financial gain. Being a creative professional means valuing self-expression, openness, and personal fulfillment. The act of creating brings me joy and a profound sense of purpose.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

One aspect of the visual communication industry that outsiders often overlook is the extensive behind-the-scenes work involved. Beyond crafting visually appealing designs, a significant part of our job involves client meetings, email management, and administrative tasks. Building meaningful relationships with clients and understanding their requirements in depth are essential to being a successful graphic designer.

To deliver outstanding design results, thorough research and strict adherence to quality standards are crucial. While many might think graphic design is just about creating attractive images, the reality is far more complex. Designers are dedicated to crafting narratives that engage audiences and stand the test of time through visual storytelling. Our work transcends aesthetics; it’s about effectively communicating messages and emotions.

Additionally, the physical demands of the profession are often unnoticed. Spending long hours in front of a screen can undoubtedly take a toll on our bodies. Graphic design is a demanding field that requires juggling multiple projects, managing challenging clients, and meeting tight deadlines. However, the most rewarding aspect is seeing our creations come to life in the real world, making all the effort worthwhile.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://filipposfragkogiannis.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/filipposfragkogiannis
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/filipposfragkogiannis
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/filipposfragkogiannis
• Twitter: https://x.com/ffragkogiannis
• Other: https://www.threads.net/@filipposfragkogiannis