Love for design
Donna Robertson, a Christchurch-based graphic designer, is devoted to crafting brands and visual communication that grab people’s attention and hearts.
Donna studied graphic design and has worked in Christchurch since 1991. She has even spent some time working in the U.K. Since 2002, she has been the director of her own business, Robertson Creative, which celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2022.
Her base of loyal clients spans industries, including the building sector, education, local government, healthcare, and social service providers. With a focus on logo and visual brand design, her works flows cohesively across digital platforms, printed media, and signage.
Donna has worked on many memorable projects. One standout experience was designing the visual brand and wayfinding signage for developer Shaun Stockman’s commercial buildings throughout Ōtautahi.
“Working with the building’s history as inspiration allowed me to be really creative, and it challenged my problem-solving abilities, which made every day interesting.”
Her most recent project with Shaun was the Cotters Lane development on High Street.
Beyond working with businesses to help them achieve their aesthetic, Donna has found inspiration in illustrating her beloved city of Ōtautahi Christchurch. Starting as a creative gift for her clients, her Ōtautahi illustrations grew to encompass the revitalisation of the city.
“From my office on High Street, I was watching buildings being brought back to life. I began illustrating my favourite buildings and sites in the city, the fun and creative things popping up. There wasn’t a lot to include in the beginning, but as the city came back, I had more to add. I added some of my clients and their businesses, and my family and friends.”
The illustrations also became a personal therapeutic outlet, especially during the challenges posed by the Covid pandemic.
Donna sells her products online through creative marketplace Felt and local gift shops like The Kōwhai Collective.
Her Ōtautahi products have gained recognition and are now used by the Christchurch City Council as corporate gifts for visiting dignitaries, highlighting the city’s resurgence.