Kalee Jackson, Designer in Auckland, New Zealand

Overview

Hello, I’m Kalee. I’m a professional graphic designer and typographer experienced in creating stunning books. I’ve worked with publishing houses, art galleries, museums and independently, to design striking, award winning covers and interiors. I enjoy working on a wide range of titles and specialise in art books, history, poetry and non-fiction.

My design work is all about beautiful typography, making images sing, enhanced reader experience, and the potential of the book as a design object. I’m thoughtful in my conceptual process, creative and detail oriented. Collaboration is key to my practice, I enjoy working with authors, editors and artists like you, to help realise your book design dreams. Every project is unique, so let’s discuss your design needs, budget and timeline. Let’s create a book design that communicates the essence of your unique work to your audience and leaves a lasting impression!

Services

Cover Design

Typography

Book Interior Design

Production Management

Non-Fiction

Art Education & Reference History Psychology Sociology

Fiction

Poetry

Languages

English

Awards

PANZ Book Design Awards 2020 Edify Award for Best Educational Book or Series – Secondary/Tertiary
Best Design Awards 2016 Editorial and books – Bronze
MAPDA Museums Australasia Multimedia & Publication Design Awards 2016 Exhibition Catalogue (Major) Level A
PANZ Book Design Awards Young Designer of the Year Award 2014

Certifications

Bachelor of Design with Honours – Massey University Wellington
Te Tohu Mohiotanga (Diploma in Maori Language)

Work experience

Art Director

Art News New Zealand

Oct, 2019 — Nov, 2022 (about 3 years)

I was responsible for the art direction and layout of leading contemporary art magazine Art News New Zealand.

Graphic designer

Self-employed

Mar, 2011 — Present

I run a full-time freelance award-winning design studio with a focus on book design, typography, brand identity, exhibition graphics and printed ephemera. My clients include independent artists, Auckland University Press, Te Tuhi Centre for the Arts, City Gallery Wellington, Te Papa Press and Govett-Brewster Art Gallery / Len Lye Centre.

Graphic Designer

Govett-Brewster Art Gallery

Nov, 2005 — Mar, 2011 (over 5 years)

My position involved communicating through typography and image the exhibitions, public programmes, events and services of New Zealand’s leading Contemporary Art Museum to a wide range of audiences. I designed and print managed a range of high profile art publications and catalogues published by the Gallery, including acclaimed artist monograph 'Len Lye' and 'Francis Upritchard: Save Yourself' – the 53rd Venice Biennale New Zealand representation catalogue. I also increased the profile of the gallery through exhibition branding, advertisements, posters, invitations, brochures and other promotional material.

Design and Production Manager

New Zealand News UK, London, England

Jul, 2005 — Oct, 2005 (3 months)

I managed the production of the weekly NZ News UK newspaper and associated print and internal products. I also created advertising artwork for clients.

Graphic Designer

APN Educational Media

Feb, 2003 — Feb, 2005 (about 2 years)

I worked on rebranding, design and layout of youth magazine titles including JET magazine, Latitude and Smart Start, from creative concept through to print. I typeset a range of small to high profile Education and Health publications including Tukotoko Korero / Education Gazette, Education Review, Health Review and Study in New Zealand. I art directed and designed print advertisements for clients including Smokefree New Zealand, Vodafone and the Ministry of Education (NZ).

Bookseller

Bennetts Bookshop Wellington

May, 2002 — Feb, 2003 (9 months)

As a bookseller I was responsible for serving a wide range of local and international customers, dealing with their enquiries, offering advice and recommending books where appropriate. This required industry knowledge and an excessive fondness for books.