TRYNA FIGURE IT OUT
(2025)
‘Tryna Figure It Out’ is a 2025 EP by Scottish producer and artist Gillieson, in collaboration with upcoming artist CTZY. I was asked by the duo to creative direct the entirety of the project, including both documenting its creation, and designing all elements of the final output.
The core concept of the project was the idea of Scottish identity being intertwined with influences from further afield.
The cover was shot on film to create a raw/unfiltered atmosphere. The graffiti not only displays the EP title, but is a reference to Glaswegian graffiti culture, linking back to the idea of Scottish identity. This concept is furthered by the location itself, mixing both rural and industrial elements, highlighting the evolution/modernisation of the Scottish landscape and, in turn, the evolution of those who live there.
The type design was inspired by the idea of Scottish identity. I wrote a 1-line brief of "Modernism flourishing in a traditional environment", linking to the idea of living in Scotland but being different to what is traditionally expected.
-The curved lines are inspired by the Paisley pattern, a key design reference linking back to the EP's geographical location.
-The diamond elements are in reference to the designs seen on carved Scottish monuments, such as the Pictish Stones, combined with the idea of the glyphs and tags added to finished graffiti pieces.
-The close proximity of organic and geometric elements furthers the idea of the overlap between traditional and modern.
The process was documented through photography and video. The photos were shot on film to maintain the raw, work-in-progress theme, providing a behind-the-scenes look into the artists' everyday lives. The documentary was shot on both tape and digital camcorders, as well as Kodak Super 8 film, and provides an insight into the development of the EP.
Full campaign consisting of: Front and Back EP covers, Spotify canvas, custom type design, 3D type animation, film photography documentation, 12 minute documentary + more.
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