The Importance of Personal Work and Self-initiated Projects With Nao Nozawa (S01E04)

This episode is dedicated to Nao Nozawa, a Tokyo based graphic designer and art director. We cover topics such as dealing with feedback and criticism, the importance of personal work and self-initiated projects, the specifics of freelancing, and working with clients in Japan, and much more.
Biography
Nao Nozawa is a Tokyo based graphic designer and art director. She currently works as a freelancer within different disciplines including graphic design, art direction, accessories, and textile design, and is always eager to collaborate. She’s a member of the Japan Graphic Designers Association. Besides her client practice, she nurtures her personal work, through making exhibitions and books.
Selected Links From the Episode

Nao Nozawa's Website
Nao Nozawa's Instagram
Kanetanaka
Hiroshi Sugimoto
Artless
Japanese writing system
Peter Drucker

Show Notes

Introduction [00:00]
Episode Introduction [00:52]
Advice to Younger Self [02:32]
Advice to Graphic Designers Who Are Just Starting Out [03:46]
Freelancing and Working With Clients in Japan [07:59]
Short Episode Break – Support the Podcast [11:08]
Importance of Personal Work and Self Initiated Projects [11:59]
Dealing With Feedback and Criticism [15:58]
Nao's Current Struggles [17:30]
Early Mistakes [20:03]
Advice for Being a Better Designer and Creative Professional [21:23]
Episode Outro [22:29]

Full transcript and more at https://creative.voyage/