Darryl Butler—Freelance Web Designer
My approach to professional web design is an extension of my training and experience in traditional graphic design.
I completed a B.A. Graphic Design, graduating with Distinction in 1991, Charles Sturt University (Riverina), and went on to work in Canberra as a graphic designer.
In 1994 I began making websites, and found that I really enjoyed the balancing of the visual communication aspect with the functionality of software and interfaces.
Since then I have founded and operated 2 successful small businesses: co-founding Swell Design Group in 1997, and after selling my shares to my business partners in 2002 I started Itchybrain Productions™ as a solo venture.
I believe that excellent design is based upon:
- respect for client input and desired business outcomes
- creative thinking directed by a meaningful purpose
- focusing on identified target market(s)
- developing concepts that clearly communicate key messages
- creating distinctive finished products
- enhancing practical user-interaction
- motivating decision-making and actions
- balancing any existing ‘brand equity’ within new design directions; and
- creating a balance between aesthetics and functionality
Business Focus
I’m passionate about working with solo operators and microbusiness, and more recently have been working a lot with community service organisations and not-for-profit organisations.
I also love working as a freelance subcontractor, partnering in a team of people associated with web and app design.
Itchybrain Productions™ services a geographic area between the Sapphire Coast, Canberra and Albury-Wodonga, but I also work remotely with clients in Melbourne and Sydney.
Feel free to contact me for more information about Darryl Butler Itchybrain Productions™, or to discuss your next project.
Timeline points of interest
2018—present
Moved back to Tathra NSW, working freelance and part-time with 2pi Software. With a focus on WordPress-based websites, and—with the rise of website hacking—I have an increased emphasis on website security.
2016—2017
Working primarily from Albury, directly with small business owners, and subcontracting to local agencies, servicing into Canberra and the Sapphire Coast.
2015
Hot-desking at ‘The Workshop Albury’ co-working space, with Megan of then MZ Design, now kindred design.
Moved to Albury after a great year of hot-desking at the ‘CoWS’ Co-Working Space in Bega, living on the beautiful Sapphire Coast
2012
Began a very rewarding partnership with 2pi Software. Became instrumental in the Sapphire Coast tech community, volunteering my services for training of a WordPress User Group, providing web design for enterprises such as the ‘CoWS’ Co-Working Space in Bega
2010
Moved to the Tathra/Merimbula area on the Sapphire Coast NSW, servicing a widespread local community and Canberra
2005
Architected and directed the bespoke production of my proprietary ‘BareBones CMS’, decommissioned in 2010.
2002
Founded Itchybrain Productions as a solo venture, focusing on personal ventures and web design (no longer creating graphic design for print).
1999
Twice AGDA awarded for illustration and self-promotional corporate identity materials (Swell Design Group)
1997
Co-founded Swell Design Group in Canberra, grew from 2 to several people within 5 years
1996
Founded Itchybrain Graphic Design (freelance)
AGDA awarded (jointly with lead designer Marcus Flux) for the design and production of the DEETYA Job Guide website
1993
Internationally awarded for an ATO poster campaign regarding security and privacy
1992
Began work as graphic designer with the then Australian Government Publishing Service
1991
Graduated BA Graphic Design with Distinction from Charles Sturt University (Riverina)