A passion for the aesthetic. A drive for connection, justice and happiness.

Somerset Bean: graphic designer, doodler, painter, sculptor

Graphic design that makes things grow

Design for change. Design that connects.

I’m Bean, bringing over 35 years of experience in graphic design to causes, communities and initiatives that matter — from peace and press freedom to ecological and community-led action.

My focus is on creating visuals that inform, engage, and mobilise.

Rooted in a background of campaign work, including over a decade with the global Free Assange movement, this practice blends craft, clarity and context to support projects with purpose.

Working closely with non-profits, independent media, advocacy groups, cooperatives and small businesses, each project is approached with care and flexibility — from infographics to identities, flyers to booklets, banners to billboards — ensuring the result speaks clearly and powerfully to your intended audience.

Explore the portfolio for recent design work.
Get in touch to collaborate.

The Bean design process

Each project is shaped with clarity, collaboration and care:

1. Starting with purpose
Every project begins with listening — to what it’s for, who it’s for, and what it needs to do. We’ll chat about goals, audience, tone, and any references you like (or don’t!).

2. Exploring direction
I’ll look into the context and audience, gather visual references, and sometimes sketch rough ideas or moodboards to shape the creative path.

3. Structuring information
Typography, layout and flow are designed for clarity and accessibility — especially important when the message is complex or urgent.

4. Imagery — yours, mine, or both
You might provide visuals (photos, logos, etc). I can also draw, design or source what’s needed — including sorting rights and permissions if needed.

5. Bringing it together
I place and refine elements to create a unified, clear design. Visual consistency (colour, fonts, image treatment) ties it all together.

6. Feedback and refinements
You’ll get mockups (usually 2–3 rounds). Your feedback helps shape the final piece into something you’re proud to share.

7. Getting it ready
Final files are prepped for their destination — print, web or signage — with the right specs. I can liaise with printers or suppliers if needed.

Art that grows hearts

Wear it. Paint it. Build it.

My art is a space for play, colour, connection and commentary — especially of the “What is that?!” kind.

From hand-drawn, wearable pieces to bold large-scale murals and experimental public sculpture, my artistic work explores visual language in less expected ways.

Some of it speaks directly, other aspects invite meaning.

Murals and sculptures are new projects I’m currently growing. Each is an extension of the same impulse: to create something surprising and curious.

Visit the shop for wearable art.
Discover murals in progress.

Yes there is now a Bean on Instagram account for arty things.