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

Myranda, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s start big picture – what are some of biggest trends you are seeing in your industry?

As a digital designer specializing in creative WordPress websites, I have noticed a few exciting trends in my industry recently. One of the biggest stylistic trends I am seeing is the rise of neo-brutalism in web design, which is characterized by its bold, geometric shapes and use of vibrant colors. Gone are the days of dull, muted color palettes – today, designers are using bold, saturated hues to create websites that are eye-catching and memorable. I have found that using bright colors can help to draw users’ attention to important information and features on a website and can also help to create a cohesive brand identity for a business.

In addition to these design trends, I have also noticed an increasing focus on streamlined user experience (UX) in web design. As more and more businesses move online, it is becoming increasingly important for websites to be easy to navigate and use. To that end, I have been incorporating UX best practices into my designs, such as using clear, easy-to-read copy and simplifying navigation menus. By prioritizing the user experience, I am able to create websites that are not only visually appealing but also highly functional and user-friendly and quick to gather the information visitors seek out.

An important trend I am seeing is the use of interactive 3D elements and technologies, such as Three.js, to create immersive, 3D environments that can be accessed directly through a website. This is helping to bridge the gap between web 2.0 and web 3.0 experiences. As more and more businesses begin to explore the potential of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) for their brand, the use of 3D technologies in web design allows for a seamless transition between traditional web experiences and immersive, 3D environments. Overall, I believe that this is a super exciting trend that has the potential to revolutionize the way that businesses interact with their users online. I am excited to continue exploring the possibilities of this technology and to help my clients create engaging and immersive experiences for their audiences.

I believe that creative collaboration is an important factor in moving forward with industry trends. As a web designer, I have found that there are many areas that I am not particularly specialized in, such as copywriting, 3D modeling, and advanced web development. To keep up with the latest trends and offer the best possible services to my clients, I have set out to find talent in these areas and collaborate with other creative people to bring my projects to life. In the (very near!) future, I believe that creative collaboration and the use of AI will also play a key role in the world of digital design. As technology continues to evolve, I expect to see more and more designers and developers working together in teams and using AI tools to create truly innovative and impressive projects. By staying open to collaboration and embracing new technologies, I believe that designers like myself can continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in web design.

Myranda, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

As someone who’s always had a passion for both art and technology, I was drawn to the field of graphic and web design. After graduating college in Calgary, with studies in new media and design, I was eager to start my own business and began freelancing. However, I quickly realized that I needed more industry experience in order to be successful.

In 2016, I moved to Vancouver and started working as an in-house designer, and then eventually leading a web department at a marketing agency. Through this experience, I gained a wealth of knowledge and developed a strong portfolio of work. I also had the opportunity to work on national billboard campaigns, which was a highlight of my career. Through this experience, I learned how to price my work, collaborate with other professionals, and find clients who valued my skills and vision. I regained my confidence and decided to go independent once again.

During Covid-19, I launched Marimba.Designs, a digital design business that offers web design and digital illustration and a breadth of other related services. With most of the corporate world now working remotely, I found more opportunities to be available as a subcontractor to agencies and clients, allowing me to take on a variety of projects that spoke to my creative vision.

I believe that design has the power to connect with people. At Marimba.Designs, my mission is to create digital experiences through empathy. I want to understand my clients’ needs and goals, and create solutions that resonate with their target audience. My design solutions are based on simplicity and elevated brand experiences, and I am dedicated to staying up-to-date with industry technologies and practices.

I believe that the value I bring to my clients is in my ability to create designs that are both effective and visually appealing. My passion for design and technology, combined with my experience and dedication to empathy, makes me a strong businesswoman.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

As a recent college graduate in Calgary with studies in new media and design, I was excited to start my career as a freelancer and enjoy the freedom and creativity of running my own business. However, I quickly learned that it wasn’t as easy as I had thought. I struggled with finding the right clients, pricing my work, and trying to learn everything on my own without any guidance or mentorship. This led to a few failures and a difficult time trying to make ends meet, dealing with bad clients, and feeling isolated. Finding clients on Craigslist made it difficult to sustain my business when their budgets were so low.

I realized that I needed more industry experience to succeed. I visited Vancouver and thought, “this place is beautiful, so liberal and creative. I see myself in this city”. so I packed up and moved to Vancouver on my own to gain work experience and develop my independence. I worked as an in-house designer and eventually led a web department at a local marketing agency. Through this experience, I learned how to price my work, work with quality clients, and collaborate with other talents. I also built up a strong portfolio and even had some of my illustrations featured in national billboard campaigns.

After gaining the necessary skills and experience, I felt confident enough to become independent again. The lesson I learned was that while being an entrepreneur can be incredibly fulfilling, it’s important to have a solid foundation of knowledge and experience before taking the leap. It wasn’t easy, but the struggles I faced helped shape me into the successful entrepreneur I am today.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

In addition to the fulfillment and expression that comes with being a creative, I also enjoy the opportunity to experiment with new trends and technologies in my design work. I find it exciting to push the boundaries of what is possible and to incorporate new tools and techniques into my art. This allows me to stay current and relevant in the rapidly evolving world of art and design. It also keeps my work fresh and exciting, both for myself and for my audience.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://marimba.design
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marimba.design/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/myrandawicks/
• Other: Behance portfolio: https://www.behance.net/marimba-designs