Catherine Adam

Available to hire

Kia ora. I’m a creative based in Paekākāriki on the Kāpiti Coast, with a background in visual communication — encompassing both graphic design and photography.

About

Kia ora. I’m a creative based in Paekākāriki on the Kāpiti Coast, with a background in visual communication — encompassing both graphic design and photography. My experience spans teaching, freelancing, and running my own creative business.

I bring curiosity, energy, and a collaborative spirit to every project. Having worked in both Aotearoa New Zealand and New York, I’ve built a reputation for being a thoughtful, respectful, and reliable contributor who integrates seamlessly into a team. Beyond my professional work, I’m a keen yoga practitioner, enjoy dabbling in letterpress, and love exploring nature with my camera and dog by my side.

  • Joined August 2025

Industry experience

  • Media & Entertainment
  • Education
  • Professional Services
  • Other

Projects · 7

I collaborated with Celeste Skachill to design vehicle and storefront graphics for Commonsense Organics, bringing their commitment to sustainability to the forefront. The project involved creating bold, eye-catching visuals that align with their brand ethos—promoting organic living and mindful choices. Our goal was to visually communicate their core values while enhancing their presence on the road and in-store, creating an engaging and memorable experience for customers.

  • Graphic Designer

I collaborated with illustrator Katharine Hall to design What Makes You Stronger, a book that visually and emotionally supports its empowering message. My role focused on creating a cohesive design that complemented Katharina’s illustrations, ensuring the layout, typography, and overall aesthetic enhanced the reading experience. This project was a beautiful fusion of storytelling and design, bringing warmth and accessibility to an inspiring publication.

https://www.twine.net/signin

I collaborated with Anna Groves and Katie Lane to bring the Inner Nature Cards to life—a non violent communication card set designed to support self-awareness and connection. Each card is inspired by one of three themes: feelings, sensations, and needs. I created the corresponding imagery, capturing emotions and textures in nature, and also designed the card set itself. Once the set was produced, I photographed the final product for their marketing and website.

https://www.twine.net/signin

Since 2018, I’ve collaborated with Coral Tree, a family-owned business in Otaki, on ongoing design projects, including a refreshed label for their organic apple cider vinegar. The new design highlights their organic roots with earthy tones and elegant typography, ensuring strong shelf presence. I also created publication and marketing materials to share their brand story and values, along with brand portraits of Kim and Zhana that capture the heart of their family-run business.

  • Graphic Designer

I worked with Christopher Miller, a Strengths-Based, Heart-Centred Coach, to design two websites—ChristopherMiller.com and Expansive Love—creating an online presence that reflects his work and mission. Built by Kalpesh Bhula of Three Point, the sites balance clarity, warmth, and professionalism to showcase his coaching practice and broader offerings. In addition, I captured product photography to highlight the details and energy of his work, ensuring a cohesive visual identity across digital and marketing platforms.

  • Graphic Designer

I worked with Creating Balance to develop a brand identity that reflects clarity, harmony, and wellbeing. This project included designing a thoughtful logo, selecting a calming color palette, and creating a cohesive visual language. I also designed and built the website in Squarespace, ensuring a seamless user experience that aligns with the brand’s values.

  • Creative Director
  • Graphic Designer
  • Photographer

Work experience· 19 roles

Contracted Senior Graphic Designer · Measuring Outcomes LtdJan 2024 – Jan 2024 · 1 mo

Digital design and print design; contributed to branding and production across client projects.

Contracted Senior Graphic Designer · Measuring Outcomes LtdJan 2020 – Jan 2024 · 4 yrs 1 mo

Digital design, print design

Business Owner · Wonderbird Photography & Design StudioJan 2019 – Present · 7 yrs 11 mos

Graphic design and photography services; branding, client consultation, and studio management.

Business Owner (Graphic Designer + Photographer) · Catherine Adam Photography & DesignJan 2019 – Jan 2019 · 1 mo
Business Owner (Graphic Designer + Photographer) · Wonderbird Photography & Design StudioJan 2019 – Nov 2025 · 6 yrs 11 mos
Business owner · Catherine Adam Photography & DesignJan 2016 – Jan 2019 · 3 yrs 1 mo
Business owner (Graphic Designer + Photographer) · Catherine Adam Photography & DesignJan 2016 – Jan 2019 · 3 yrs 1 mo
Creative Director / Senior Designer / Mentor · Open Lab, CoCA, Massey UniversityJan 2015 – Jan 2015 · 1 mo

Education· 28

Post Graduate Diploma in Visual Communication (Distinction) · Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand2014
Graduate Diploma in Visual Communication (Distinction) · Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand2011
Introductory Certificate in Design · Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand2000
Bachelor of Arts (1st Class French Honours) · Victoria University, Wellington, New Zealand1999

Certifications and awards· 10

International Society of Typographic Design - Membership with Commendation2013 – 2025
Membership with Commendation, International Society of Typographic Design2013 – 2025
Finalist, Best Design Awards (Print): Into Sight, Into Mind2013 – 2025
International Society of Typographic Design – Awarded Membership with Commendation2013 – 2026

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