Portfolios
I Am Ready.
Welcome to my world of design, where every brand is a story waiting to be told and every project is an opportunity to create something extraordinary. My name is Sam, and I’m the creative mind and passionate design behind Angell Designs.
My Story
My journey into the world of design began with a deep fascination for the power of visual storytelling. As a child, I was captivated by the intricate details of architecture and the emotive power of art. This passion led me to pursue a Bachelor of Design, where I honed my skills and developed a profound understanding of the interplay between form, function, and aesthetics.
Living with multiple disabilities, including chronic health conditions and mental illness, has profoundly shaped my approach to design. These experiences have not only made me resilient but have also enriched my creative perspective. My bipolar and neurodivergent brain allows me to see the world in vibrant colours and patterns, infusing my work with a unique and dynamic quality.
My Journey With Disabilities
My journey with disability has been one of resilience, creativity, and constant adaptation. Living with chronic health conditions and mental illness has shaped not only my personal life but also my professional path as a graphic designer.
Early Years
From a young age, I faced challenges that many of my peers did not. I was diagnosed with Lupus (SLE), a chronic autoimmune disease that affects various parts of the body. This diagnosis brought a myriad of symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, and at times, organ involvement, making everyday tasks a struggle. Alongside lupus, I have battled mental health issues, which have further complicated my life. I was formally diagnosed with Bipolar Affective Disorder (Type 1), ADHD, and Autism at 23, after a long excruciating battle of misdiagnoses and misunderstandings.
The Struggles
One of the toughest parts of living with lupus is the unpredictability of the disease. There are good days when I feel almost normal. Then, there are days when even getting out of bed feels like an insurmountable challenge. Managing these fluctuations while trying to maintain a traditional career has been… difficult to say the least.
Mental health issues have added another layer of complexity. The stigma surrounding mental illness often makes it difficult to talk about, yet it is an essential part of my journey. Experiencing depressive and manic episodes has been a dark and very isolating journey, but it is one that I have navigated with the support of my family, friends, and medical team.
Finding my Path
Despite these challenges, I found solace and expression through design. My bipolar and neurodivergent brain brought creativity and vibrancy that became my strength in the design world. The struggle to manage my health conditions pushed me to develop a rigid journalling and scheduling system to balance my appointments and work commitments effectively.
Starting my own business in 2018 was a pivotal moment. What began as a focus on logo design quickly expanded into a comprehensive branding service. I poured my passion for health and wellbeing into my designs. My business became a platform to not only showcase my skills but also to advocate for personal and professional growth through thoughtful design.
Beyond my business, I’ve committed to raising awareness about chronic illnesses and mental health issues. I am in the process of writing a book to share my experiences, aiming to provide valuable insights and foster understanding. This book is a tribute to the support systems that have carried me through - my family, friends, and medical team.