Simon Pemberton
Simon grew up in Liverpool, moving to London to study for his degree at the London College of Printing and then his masters at Central St. Martin’s. Since graduating he has worked out of a shared studio in London Fields.
Simon’s working method harks back to a time of experimentation, pre-computers when every possible way of achieving a surface texture was played with. Continuing to be obsessive about mark making and texture, Simon stores thousands of original brush marks on his computer. These are used as a library and a palette, with new ones being created and added all the time. This way of working has led to a consistent portfolio of work, known for it’s vibrant richness and density of colour.
Simon’s expressive style is commanding in it’s range, from fluid and languid to explosive and compulsive. Nowhere better can this be seen than in his work for the re-packaging of Taylors of Harrogate’s coffee range. Simon was asked to communicate the intensity of flavour or strength, as well as the mood or place suggested by each coffee. Not an easy task when looking at the subtle differences between 20 blends. Added to this brief were the key demands of the client, to make each variety sophisticated yet accessible and easily recognisable to the consumer. The end result delivered a coherent and wholly unique identity to the range. This was one of Simon’s most challenging yet enjoyable commissions to date.
Alongside this and other larger design projects, Simon has managed a regular column for the Guardian Comment page for several years. Copy arrives midday to early afternoon and the artwork is required by mid-afternoon. This fast thinking and ability to turnaround succinct compelling ideas is the mark of an experienced illustrator who relishes a challenge.
Clients
The Times
Simon & Schuster
Nature Magazine
The Guardian
Taylors of Harrogate
Tatler
Intelligent Life
The Folio Society
Adobe
The Royal Opera House
Financial Times
Penguin Books
BBC Worldwide
Harper’s
Boston Globe
Faber & Faber
The New York Times
Forbes
The Fader
New Yorker
Links
