I’m Naomi Akikusa-Dawber—a designer, creative director, and co-founder based in Naarm/Melbourne. At the heart of my practice is an interest in tone and emotional clarity—the invisible work behind how things feel. I’m drawn to projects that ask for thoughtfulness, not just polish. That hold weight. That need a visual identity capable of carrying complexity, care, and intention. For the past decade, I’ve built a body of work across brand, design and cultural storytelling—most recently as co-founder of Play On Play Studio, an award-winning creative practice known for its playful, purposeful approach. At Play On Play, I led projects for clients across the arts, music, community and retail spaces, often building visual identities from the ground up. Our work was collaborative, expressive, and often deeply personal—and that shaped the kind of designer I’ve become. Before that, I was a core part of the Ladies of Leisure collective (2016–2020), an independent platform for women and non-binary creatives. My time there deepened my connection to community-led work, and opened up a wealth of creative friendships and collaborations that continue to shape my values today. It taught me how design can hold space, not just deliver outcomes—and that the most powerful work often begins in conversation. I bring a clear, intuitive creative voice, along with years of experience navigating the realities of running a studio—from early concept to final delivery, from brand strategy to art direction. I work closely with clients, often acting as a bridge between creative intention and visual execution. I'm not afraid of ambiguity—I know how to sit in the fog, listen, and find form.
My creative perspective has also been shaped by living and working across cities like Berlin, Bristol, London, Byron Bay and Melbourne—experiences that expanded my sense of what design can do, and who it can speak to.

Naomi Akikusa

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