I’m John Davies, a freelance graphic designer based in Penarth, South Wales, working through Candid Creative Studio. Originally from Aberaeron in West Wales, I moved to Cardiff in 2007 to study Architectural Design at the Welsh School of Architecture and later Graphic Communication at the Cardiff School of Art & Design. I’m a fluent Welsh speaker, and my work is strongly shaped by place, community and clear visual thinking.

Since establishing my design practice in Penarth in 2011, I’ve worked across brand, print and digital for ambitious local businesses, national charities and public sector organisations. My focus is on creating contemporary, considered design that works just as hard in the real world as it does visually, helping organisations communicate with confidence both online and offline.

Alongside my studio work, I’m Managing Editor at View Publishing, producing the award-winning Penarth View, Cowbridge View, Pontcanna View and Roath Park View magazines. I’m also a co-founder and operator of Milkshed Workspace Penarth, a flexible work and studio space created to support local businesses and independent professionals. I’ve also been closely involved in local economic and community initiatives, including serving as Chair of Penarth Business Group, and contributing writing and advocacy around local high streets and independent enterprise.

Recognition for this work has included Wales Graphic Designer of the Year 2020/21, Entrepreneur of the Year 2022, Best Independent Publishing Company 2023, and Welsh Magazine of the Year 2023, but the motivation remains the same: supporting people, places and organisations to present themselves clearly and thoughtfully.