Tell us about yourself.

Hello, I'm Sofia Noceti, a 38-year-old graphic designer from Buenos Aires, Argentina.

I have always been drawn to the world of design, and while I may not have completed formal studies, I embrace the title of a graphic designer by trade. This year my journey has led me to an exciting partnership with Crista Bernasconi, giving life to our new design studio/office called, 'ufficio'. Summing up in a few words is hard, I have been trying to write my Bio many times, but, much like design, it’s something I'm continuously shaping…

Which design topics are you most passionate about?

I really enjoy the moment of exploring a project, that moment when the project doesn't exist yet, when the tests are diverse. I like the moment when I find something – the humor, the joke, the "why." The moment in which the project takes on something. Because when you start working on the project, you can go anywhere, take any direction. I like to understand the reason for the choices I make. I also like it when, once that direction is chosen, I can explore it in depth, begin to see its edges, its flaws, its potential, its scope, its vices, and at the same time set the limits, define the boundaries, and establish the rules. I like it when the project comes to light. I'm especially fond of collaborating with people that are open to immerse themselves in the process. There are moments of intuition, trial and error, and delightful discoveries. I find great pleasure in delving into the reasoning behind every design choice.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I have a small risograph publisher project with Juan Casal, my boyfriend, called Ediciones El Fuerte. I make etching, almost as a secret practice. I like to dance. I go to dance and movement practice classes.

Share a project / exhibition / creative person / anything that you found recently and sparked your imagination.

It's a tricky question. I feel that these days, having so much to see and with everything so accessible, it is difficult for me to mention something in particular. I can say that the things that inspire me the most are rather indescribable, it's more like a place, like the sun reflecting off an object, a song, a sound. In a world where everything is more and more "the same" it attracts me and inspires me to see something unique, different and genuine. I am greatly drawn to projects or individuals where ones own essence shines through, not simply chasing after trends. When someone dares to do something that might even invite criticism or stands out as different. Nowadays, we are all striving to fit into something, including myself. However, I admire when I come across projects that break away from that, that deviate from what's considered "acceptable" and normal. I appreciate these small revolutions.

What’s the hardest thing about being a designer?

I can’t say that it is hard to be a designer. I really enjoy working. I can't complain. Of course, there are difficult times, even more when you own your own studio, and you have to be in charge not only of designing, but in general. I have to say that I really enjoy working (except when the client wants to handle the files or send 'their own sketches', I don't like being a mouse driver).

What’s the best thing about being a designer?

That we believe or feel that we have the power to do any kind of project. Here in Argentina, the graphic design career is very project-based, they teach us to think, to conceptualize, and that gives us tools to create projects of any kind.

Describe your dream project.

I think I would really like to design album covers. My first approach to design was as a teenager when I made CD's for friends and designed the covers in a very rustic way, making collages and retouching in photoshop that were very poorly done. I would like to collaborate on musical projects one day, since in another life my dream would be to have my own band, although in this one I don't know how to play an instrument. But, to be honest... my biggest dream project, not as a graphic designer, is to design my own house. Years ago I drew the plan of my dream house. I just need to be able to decide where I want to plant it, and find a place that suits that house.

Share the last photo you took for inspiration and explain why.

It's a photo from a Joseph Beuys book that I took in my etching workshop. I have been working for several years on a series inspired by mountains in geological movements and their textures. I am attracted to these formations, which are unique, each piece of stone, of mountains are perched in a space on the planet like sculptures.

What's the best advice you've received (and from whom)?

“If you don’t trust me, go with another one” ( from a taxi driver on a small island in Indonesia). You can't be liked by everyone, we are always going to disappoint someone's expectations of us, and that's okay. It is also part of accepting that not everyone loves what you do, and that is what makes you different. And that it is also great to follow your own intuition and path. Even though that might distance you from people or projects. It was a comment completely out of context, but it kept ringing in my head.

What do you do when you feel stuck and uninspired?

Actually, I'm very headstrong. When I feel stuck I just insist until I achieve something, if not I change the tab and get into another project. I am lucky to work with clients and brands that inspire me, that amuse me, I always look for a way to have fun, doing it my way. When I have too much work, sometimes I find it hard to feel inspired, and then there's nothing better than taking a vacation, and missing my job.

Recommend a book / movie / TV series / podcast / playlist to our readers

Shirkers (Sandi Tan): A documentary about loss, nostalgia from a place that doesn't exist anymore, friendship, mysteries and the passage of time.

Thank you Sofia!