“Between Raw Expression and Refined Design”.

Josie, (also known as @sociallydesigned), is a multidisciplinary creative working across graphic design, illustration, and photography. Guided by instinct, precision, and purpose, she builds bold visual work that connects people, ideas, and culture.

Originally from Coffs Harbour and now based in Newcastle, NSW, her practice is grounded in storytelling and shaped by music, culture, and human connection. She creates work that sits between the raw and the refined, balancing hand-drawn expression with contemporary digital design, always led by concept and feeling.

With a Bachelor of Visual Communication Design, Josie brings both technical skill and intuitive direction to her process. Her work isn’t only about looking good, but is also about evoking a feeling and demanding action. She approaches every project with curiosity and a strong visual language, moving fluidly between branding, illustration, photography, and creative direction.

Her experience includes collaborations with brands and reputable associations including ARIA, and independent artists such as The Terrys. This mix of commercial and underground work has shaped a versatile, instinct-led creative practice.

Available now for collaborations, commissions, and creative projects.

designedsocially@gmail.com
@sociallydesigned

Likes: House plants, lava lamps, strawberries, and One Direction.

Dislikes: Bad pit etiquette, tomatoes, and driving busy roads.

Favourite movies: ‘10 Things I Hate About You’, ‘Surfs Up’, and ‘Tangled’.

Favourite albums: ’Kansas Anymore’ by Role Model, ‘Kiss All The Time. Disco, Ocassionally’ by Harry Styles, ‘Hit Me Hard and Soft’ by Billie Eilish, and ‘Sunlight’ by Spacey Jane.

Education:

Bachelor of Visual Communication Design (2023)

Majoring in Graphic Design and Illustration.

The University of Newcastle.

BSBSS00102 Micro Business Skill Set (2026)

The Business Centre, Newcastle.

Higher School Certificate (2018)

Toormina High School.

Labels, Publications + Associations:

  • Australian Recording Industry Association

  • Island Records Australia

  • Warner Music Australia

  • Universal Music International

  • Handsome Tours

  • Tracks Magazine

  • Temper Magazine

  • Salty Soundz Magazine

  • We Made You Look Agency

  • Wizard Water Agency

Select Clientele

Independent artists:

  • The Terrys

  • Joan & The Giants

  • Sunday Honey

  • Georgie Winchester

  • Saralyn / Trailblazer

  • Colleen Avenue

  • Wet Bandits

  • The Sooks

  • STAHR

Brands + Business:

  • Frothy Surf Company

  • Lies Collective

  • Doughheads

  • The Stag and Hunter Hotel

  • The Newcastle Hotel

  • Lambton Park Hotel

Client Reviews

“★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Graphic Design

“Josie is an absolute dream to work with. Not only is she incredibly talented with an amazing eye for design, but she is also one of the most supportive, accommodating and genuine people you’ll meet. She has designed three major shows for me and has gone above and beyond every single time. Nothing is ever too much trouble, and she always brings creativity, professionalism and heart to every project. I truly love working with Josie and couldn’t recommend her more highly. If you’re looking for someone who genuinely cares about your vision and delivers exceptional results, she’s your person.

— Saralyn (@saralynmusic_)

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Graphic Design + Illustration

“Loved Josie's artwork for our upcoming single cover - amazing communication and planning throughout and the final artwork design was gorgeous.”

— Joan & The Giants (@joanandthegiants)

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Photography

“Josie was easy to communicate with, reasonably priced. On time and punctual. Made amazing creative choices and led us in the right direction to get the best photos possible! I would highly recommend them for your next band shoot!”

— The Janes (@thejanes.band)

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Graphic Design

“Josie is so easy to work with. Prompt and transparent from the get go. Artistically we love everything she touches.”

— STAHR (@stahrband)

Recognitions & Exhibitions

  • Exhibiting artist as part of Sound & Vision Volume 1 (2025), Drifters Wharf Central Coast. Showing my mixed media series ‘Encore in Negative’. (2025)

  • Exhibiting artist as part of Sigsaly Volume 3, Newcastle. Showing my photographic series ‘CATPISS at the ABC’. (2025)

  • Exhibiting designer as part of UoN’s Visual Communication Design Graduation Show, Nuspace. Showing my major design project ‘Sunburn’. (2023)

  • First place in Design Competition for The Terrys single artwork titled ‘IDK’ (2021).

  • First place for the Lambton Park Hotel design competition, designing their Merchandise and Staff T-shirts (2021).

Work Experience & Employment

  • February 2021 / Current

    ABN: 35 196 283 362


    • Graphic Design and Illustration

    • Photography / Videography

    • Adobe Creative Suite and Technology

    • Communication, and attention to detail

  • Creative Services Volunteer - January 2025 / 2026.

    • Social Media Graphic Designer, Illustrator, Photographer.

    • ‘Waves of Change’ Artwork campaign

    • Campaign and product photography

    • Highlights and social media templates

  • Junior Social Media Designer - August 2025

    • Social Media Graphic Designer.

    • Graphic posts and carousels for multiple clients

    • Social media strategy & scheduling for clients

    • Grid curation and ideation for clients

  • Media Team Volunteer - February 2025

    • Professional Event Photographer for 2 day ‘Over The Ditch’ Festival.

    • Photographing artists, branding, and patrons.

    • Editing and post-production of all event photography.

    • Event promotion and brand representation.

  • In-House Graphic Designer Intern - September 2024

    • Work experience as an In-House Graphic Designer

    • Mentored by EYW’s in-house designer Bon Morse, and owner Liam Scanlan.

    • Graphic Design & Illustration - Designing T-Shirts, mockups & tech packs.

    • Testing / reviewing samples, general day in the life of ecommerce business.

  • Graphic Designer Intern - January 2024

    • Work experience as an Agency Graphic Designer.

    • Mentored by creative agency owner Brodie Richardson

    • Completed real client projects under the agency’s name.

    • Poster designs, social media assets, photography.

  • Graphic Designer Intern - January / February 2023

    • Professional Experience as a Graphic Designer at Studio Zed.

    • Closely mentored by Carl Morgan and Simone O’Callaghan of The Uon.

    • Graphic Design & Illustraion Projects.

    • Newcastle Writers Festival 2023 (Client).

    • Dynamic Collaborative teamwork style.

    • Working within Brand Guidelines.