DPS ALUMNI Q&A: SIMON PHAN - KHO MUC STUDIO
Which course did you study at LCC?
I graduated in 2013 from BA (Hons) Graphic & Media Design, majoring in Illustration.
Tell us about your current role and what you're currently working on.
I co-founded Kho Muc studio in September 2018. It's a small print studio specialise in risograph in District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
What made you choose the DPS opportunity?
As an international student, I want to get to know more about London creative market and how creative studios run.
Where did you go for your DPS year? Tell us a little bit about your experience:
I started my DPS year with an internship at New Statesmen magazine.
This is where I developed my interest in editorial design and got a closer look into how magazine works.
Another incredible internship during my DPS year is when I got to assist designer Ryan Todd with his illustration project for London 2012 Olympics. Later on, he got in contacted to help out with his studio booth for the Pick Me Up Fair at Somerset House in 2013.
What's the most important thing you learned from doing the DPS year?
The way things work in different environments. I was lucky enough to have worked at big company versus small independence studios.
How did DPS alter your future ambitions?
With a diploma in DPS, which means one year working experience added in my CV, it definitely helps boost the confidence and get me through the interview stage for most of my job applications after graduation.
Would you recommend a DPS year to other students and if so, why?
Absolutely. This is a great chance to reflect what you’ve learnt so far in academia. To see where you are, how you apply your skills in reality and examine your personal interest & practice.
It will be a tough year but in exchange, you grow and understand more about yourself through your likes and dislikes in a professional environment.
What advice would you give to students applying for the DPS year?
To be brave and present your best self through your portfolio. Things won’t be perfect at the beginning. But it can only get better after you get feedback from people.
What was the best thing about your time at LCC and why?
My great peers & tutors. I could not ask for more.
Is there a particular person who shaped your university experience or creative outlook?
Paul Bowman, my former tutor and former Head of Illustration, LCC.
Where do you go for inspiration?
Bookstores, flea markets, design fairs.
What does your workspace look like? Do you have a studio?
An open studio where walk-ins are welcome. I like to talk about people ongoing projects and if there is any possibility for risograph to be applied.
Website/Instagram: