Q&A With Designer Michelle B.

I love picking people’s brains. Especially creatives working in such a fast-paced and multicultural place like Dubai. Luckily, I’m very fortunate to have a few gracious creatives open up to me about themselves, their lives, and work for this blog.

There are a few more feature posts in the works, but we’ll kick off with an utterly frank and open Q&A featuring the double-threat of talented graphic designer and model-esque beauty, Michelle Brosius. I can’t believe she took the time to write out all her answers – I am therefore eternally grateful.

You can see her portfolio (soon to be updated, I can’t wait!) here.

(Photo by Tusk Imaging)

Please tell me a little bit about yourself.

My name is Michelle Brosius and I’m from Denver, Colorado. I moved to Dubai in December 2007, and have been sweating ever since. I usually say I moved out here to build my career, which has definitely rung true, but I moved out here mostly because of a boy — isn’t that nearly every girls’ excuse?

Have you done a lot of traveling? If so, where? What is your favorite place to visit and where are you hoping to go next?

I can count the number of countries I’ve been to on one hand (Mexico, France, Oman, St. Vincent and the Grenadines). Of the places I’ve been I would say that I prefer the United States, particularly Colorado. I just can’t deal with even the tiniest amount of humidity. It is kind of strange then that I am in Dubai, eh? I am hoping to travel to Santorini, Greece sometime this summer to escape the heat.

What was it like coming to Dubai when you did? What brought you here in the first place?

I took a non-stop flight from the US to Qatar — that’s 12 straight hours. I had never been on a plane for so long and I really don’t travel well. When we arrived in Dubai all 6 of our bags had been lost. I had vital things in there, like my portfolio, which could not be reproduced. After that we had to struggle for hours to get the key to our apartment because the real estate company was being completely obnoxious. When we finally arrived to our new home there was no electricity, no water, and our apartment was covered in construction dust. Needless to say… I didn’t really have the time or the effort to soak up the culture around me.

After some time that horrible experience began to slowly fade away, all 6 of our bags were returned to us and our flat began to feel like a home. The stress of moving had completely blinded me from seeing where I was and what was around me. I started to feel like I really was somewhere strange and new. I noticed some unfortunate things too easily… the crazy drivers, the intently staring workers, the unworldly humidity, the generally rude nature of people, the vast amounts of construction, the ear deafening noise, etc. These things made me very uncomfortable in my new surroundings. The pretty buildings and unique attractions temporarily distracted me from things that were bothersome, but they never went away. With more time, the pretty buildings weren’t as impressive and the novelty of it all wore away. All I was left with were things that were nothing but nuisances.

I still feel that way today. This isn’t the city of my dreams; it’s more of a necessity on the road to becoming successful. In Dubai, I’ve been given a chance to do things I would not be able to do in other parts of the world. I’ve accepted that, but as soon as I am able, I am getting out of here. I can see the merits in this city and how it appeals to some people, but it’s not for me.

How long have you been working in your current position? What’s your official job title?

I was working as a graphic designer at Better Homes for over a year. Just 2 months ago I was promoted to Design Manager.

Where do you work? What does a normal workday look like for you?

I’ve been at Better Homes since March 2008. I arrive to work at 9am, turn on all the necessary electronics, open email, and proceed to plan out projects that need to be completed that day. I typically work on website design, banners, reports, posters (internal and external communications), outdoor signage, and 2 weeks out of the month my day is heavily spent working on the Better Homes publication. Luckily we have an account manager within so I don’t have to communicate too much with those requesting the work. It’s nice to be somewhat distanced from the drama that can come about.

Would you say it was easy for you to adjust to living and working here?

I would definitely say it was difficult for me adjust to both living and working here. I was so blissful in the city and situation I was in previously, that coming to such a harsh environment (on many different levels) was completely shocking.

If any, what were some of the cultural or professional challenges you initially faced?

Culturally, I found it difficult to adjust my clothing style. I prefer to be able to wear whatever, however I want. I don’t want to have to think about how I might “offend” others around me. It has caused me to develop a complex. When I get dressed to go out on the weekend I am constantly conflicted… trying to find the right balance between what I want to wear and the pressures not offend anyone.

Professionally, I really don’t have much to compare my experience here. I moved to Dubai only a few months after graduating college, so Better Homes was my first real design job. I enjoy where I work and I now enjoy those with whom I work. Although, I have always had a suspicion that things here move a lot faster than in most places. It seems as though people are constantly rushing into things without giving enough thought… but I think that is how most of the city operates. They do first and worry about the mistakes later.
What do you like best about being in Dubai?

As much as I dislike being in Dubai I can still recognize the wonder that it is. This city has the most amazing buildings in the world, with still more to come. There is always something new to do and there is a very interesting mix of people here. The professional opportunities are unreal, and salaries are high. Also, the absence of income tax alone is reason enough to stay here.

What inspires you in your work?

I’m inspired by projects that are well thought out… when I am given a project (copy and concept) that someone has put a lot of thought into; it makes me want to do the same. It’s a shame that doesn’t happen very often. Inspiration has sort of been waning lately.

What or who is your dream client?

I’m going to have to say Apple. I’ve been in love with Apple since March 2004, and the affair has been running strong ever since.

Do you do your best creative work under pressure (i.e. working through the night) or when your working environment is more relaxed?

Work under pressure can lead to good results sometimes, I’ll admit. However, I think that I prefer to have ample time to complete something so that I have time to think about all aspects, all angles. Without enough time I feel like I’ll miss something that could really give the project that extra edge in the end. With that said, I work better when there is enough time to reflect.

Dubai is known for its work-hard-play-hard attitude, what do you do to unwind?

I really like to turn the air conditioning low, curl up under a blanket and read a good book. When I am bored of that I enjoy dancing and listening to electronic music at clubs… I like diversity.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

I want more pumpkin cakies!

Thank you so much Michelle for sharing! I am sure you are not alone in your thoughts, opinions, and reasons for being here. But I am definitely glad that you ARE here, period.

A quick note: pumpkin “cakies” are a mildly sweet cross between a cookie and a cake. They are delicious, especially with cream cheese frosting. I have been known to bake on occasion, but only ridiculously easy recipes like pumpkin cakies.