Q&A with a graphic designer

By Kasey Simpson

Jimmy Cunliffe owns Morsel Design. We spoke to him about his passion for the industry and how he balances life as a parent and an entrepreneur.

Tell us about your business.

Morsel is a new graphic design studio in Stanwell Park. We specialise in branding and packaging for food and drinks, but we can help businesses of all sizes across all sectors.

What made you want to start this business?

I’d been working as a graphic designer for other agencies in Sydney for over 15 years, but there had always been a desire to take creative control of the projects I worked on. I saw it as the next stage in my career; to take complete responsibility and put my skills and experience to the test.

We’re also raising two children, Heath and Neve, and the realities of parenthood, needing a job with flexibility, and wanting a better work-life balance meant it was the right time to start my own business.

What do you love about your job?

I’ve always loved graphic design. Every project presents unique challenges, and it is incredibly satisfying creating visual solutions.

I still enjoy seeing brands I’ve worked on out in the real world, such as the Kirks brand of soft drinks, which I was able to redesign a few years ago. I remember the brand from when I was young, and now when I see kids with a can of Kirks it gives me a buzz. Since starting Morsel, I’ve found it incredibly rewarding being my own boss, and the flexibility has meant more time with the kids, less time commuting (saving 20 hours a week!) and the ability to sneak out for a weekday surf.

Best advice you were given as a parent?

I think it was my Dad who said, “Enjoy the journey as best you can”. To me, that means getting the work-life balance right … There will always be financial realities to face, however, working long hours for big bucks is an illusion that stops you from enjoying the everyday.

Visit www.morseldesign.com.au