Cora Kobischka
WHAT DO YOU DO?
“Through clarifying intentionality I enable people and companies to build and evolve a brand identity that connects and impacts society.”
I design, develop and strategize to create a unique identity or tell a story as a part of best business solutions.
WHAT STEPS DID YOU TAKE TO GET TO WHERE YOU ARE NOW?
My background is in fine art and I also studied product design before I came into graphic design and brand strategy. I also have experience in non-profit where I gained experience in communications and meaningful storytelling. I have a deep respect for mission-driven work. Let’s make this world better, please!
How do you stand out in your field?
Because of my art background, my influences have come from a lot of conceptual thinking so I’m accustomed to understanding wild and crazy ideas and turning them into a reality. Also, having empathy and listening to my client’s needs has taken me far.
WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON RIGHT NOW?
Right now I’m working on a website design for a client in Japan called Hajime Shoji. They are craftspeople of Oshima Tsumugi silk textiles (and other amazing products) which dates back to the making of the first kimono! They live and work on this beautiful island paradise called Amami Oshima. I’m also working on a brand identity design for a French female-founded production company called Station Fiction.
WHAT'S YOUR STYLE/PERSPECTIVE/TASTE? DO YOU HAVE A PROJECT THAT REPRESENTS THIS?
When it comes to style/perspective/taste, I would say experimental but clean, almost reductive and polished yet approachable. The client’s vision also influences the outcome though.
WE ARE ALL SLASHIES WITH MULTIPLE SKILLS, WHICH ONE DO YOU WISH YOU COULD DO MORE OFTEN?
I would love to showcase more illustrations and animate them especially because I have an art background. That’s something I’m working on doing.
WHAT IS FRUSTRATING YOU RIGHT NOW?
The ways things happen in life are like waves and it’s tough to get every aspect of your life all on a high one, there’s always something that can bring you down. I try to find balance by taking care of my health and giving myself hard cut-offs for work to make time for family and friends. The last thing I need to do is stress out and be frustrated which doesn’t help at all. COVID-19 is frustrating though!
IF YOU COULD HIRE SOMEONE FOR $20/HR, WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE THEM DO TO MAKE YOUR DAY EASIER?
I would hire someone to get my coffee, answer my emails and set up my project tasks for the day and please have it done by 6:30 am!
LET'S BRING OUT THE TIME MACHINE. WHAT DO YOU WISH YOU COULD HAVE TOLD YOURSELF, WHEN, AND WHY?
Everybody struggles to find what they want in life and you can’t do it all. Just make a few choices, work hard and smart and it eventually it’ll pay off and you'll have stability. As another slashie, I always felt like I could tackle everything and learn how to do everything. The reality is that I can’t and that it's ok. Letting go of a false sense of control and focusing on the things that bring me the most joy was an incredible breakthrough. I have a team of people I can rely on and we can all support each other to live awesome.
IF YOU COULD TALK TO AN EXPERT TO GAIN MORE INSIGHT ON SOMETHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE ABOUT?
I’m always interested in understanding how technology will shift design and people’s behaviors. How will AI impact society?
WHAT KIND OF OPPORTUNITIES/PROJECTS ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?
I’m looking for branding projects with businesses just starting out and also with others who are looking for a refresh. I’m also open to full time positions as an in-house Creative Director or Lead/Senior Designer or at an Agency if the opportunity is right.
DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL JOB/CLIENT/COLLABORATION.
My ideal situation would be simple - clear communication, trust and respect! I’m open to working with folks in all industries because I learn something new every time.
HOW SHOULD SOMEONE APPROACH YOU ABOUT WORKING TOGETHER?
If someone wants to work with me, they can reach me by email at cora@corakobi.com. I definitely want to know the scope, the budget and a timeline if it’s a one-off project.
HOW DO YOU STAY CREATIVE?
Always following my curiosity, thinking, thinking, thinking, and having fun.
This member profile was originally published in July 2020.