BA Design for Publishing work by Michaela-Jay Appleton, showing a nature and folklore magazine titled ‚'Máthair'. The magazine features lino-print illustration, collage and photography, paired with Celtic inspired typography.

I am a graphic designer specialising in Editorial Design, Print and Illustration. I have a passion for image making, and enjoy experimenting with different digital and traditional art mediums, which can be seen throughout my work. During my three years of specialised study into Design for Publishing, I have developed strong editorial skills, particularly in composition, typography and typesetting, which have allowed me to deliver a range of digital and printed briefs, including pamphlets, magazines, websites and book designs.

BA Design for Publishing work by Michaela-Jay Appleton, showing a poster and broadsheet design for a fine art exhibition, exploring the use of mushrooms for environmental conservation.

Alongside my briefs completed as part of my degree, I joined Storehouse, the NUA Student Union’s independent magazine, where I worked as an editorial designer during my final year of study. Outside of university, I am involved with the local music scene, playing as a musician myself and often taking on freelance commission work for local musicians.

BA Design for Publishing work by Michaela-Jay Appleton, showing a plant identification book filled with retro-inspired illustrations and photography influenced by historic still life paintings.
BA Design for Publishing work by Michaela-Jay Appleton, showing a book cover design. On the cover is a lino printed illustration of the author, with hand-rendered typography for the title.