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Gradspotters Prospects | Dilruba Koc

posted by Robyn Pitts October 12, 2023

Gradspotters is a brand new and distinctive platform dedicated to discovering and showcasing emerging talent within the world of print. Aimed at showcasing and supporting recent graduates, Gradspotters is a stepping stone to success in the print and design industry.

We are currently inviting graduates from all over the world to apply to be in with the chance of gaining promotion across our platforms, a free POP Membership, and guidance from our team, all aimed at propelling your career in the print and design and world.

Below, we check out the work of one of our amazing applications so far, Dilruba Koc, a graphic designer and recent graduate of the University of Houston.

Dilruba employs a novel and boundary-pushing approach to her work that combines analogue and digital mediums, effectively resonating with her intended audience. She shared three of her projects with us, including her 2023 piece, Spectrum Bookazine. For the zine project, Dilruba worked inventively, and thought outside the box on her choice of paper. Using an inkjet printer, she generated vibrant prints on coloured craft and vellum paper. This technique involved meticulously applying ink onto the surface of these unconventional papers, yielding visually captivating and textured printed materials.

Spectrum Bookazine studies the complexities of cognitive functioning and how they manifest in everyday design and media. Through the project, Dilruba examined the role and impact of graphic design and art within neurodiverse communities, and how the design world is perceived through the eyes of neurodiverse individuals, for whom design is not usually catered. She states; “I aimed to capture a glimpse into a neurodiverse brain that may struggle to easily comprehend the “normal” design elements, such as fixed font size and color. I wanted to draw attention to the notion that graphic design is a language for everyone, and we, as designers, should focus on inclusivity of the groups that are left in the dark.”

Got you inspired? You can apply to join our Gradspotters scheme and learn more about rewards here. Your unique creativity has limitless potential, and we look forward to being a part of your journey. Wishing you the very best of luck!