WHAT DO YOU DO?
I am a designer based in Wellington, New Zealand. I completed a Master of Design Innovation degree at Victoria University of Wellington (2018). My thesis focussed on how to design and choreograph movement with 3D/4D multi-material printing, which resulted in the creation of a series of futuristic aquatic plants called Hydrophytes. Although my studies majored in Industrial Design, I would consider myself to be somewhere in between an industrial designer and an artist, perhaps crossing into the field of creative direction. I aim to create innovative objects and experiences that can intrigue, inspire, and entertain people. This often involves using 3D modelling software and 3D printing technology as my design tools. More of my work can be found at www.nicolehone.com.

WHY ARE YOU DOING IT?
Firstly, because I enjoy being creative! I’ve loved drawing and painting since I was a child and that creativity continues in my life today. I like the process of being able to transform an idea into something that can be seen, touched or experienced as a final product. It’s also an exciting time to be a designer as digital technologies are rapidly advancing, changing the ‘things’ we make and how we make them. I am interested in exploring the freedom offered by digital tools and the relationship between digital processes and physical outcomes to discover new design opportunities.

WHAT / WHO INFLUENCES YOU?
I have always been fascinated with nature; it inspires my design ideas and aesthetic. I am especially interested in botany, marine life and the macro world of nature. Not only does the natural world provide a wealth of beautiful and strange visuals but the way that things grow, adapt and move is amazing. Surrealist paintings have also influenced my style.

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS?
I am always aiming to learn new tools and skills to advance my design work. In the future, I would like to design content for exhibition spaces and/or films. Hopefully, this will include experimenting with cutting-edge 3D/4D printing technology. I would like to continue bringing objects to life through movement, whether it be animals, fictional characters or even dinosaurs!