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. You can view examples of my work here: _Website not available. Sign in: https://www.twine.net/signup_ 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.…

Catherine Adam

PRO

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. You can view examples of my work here: _Website not available. Sign in: https://www.twine.net/signup_ 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.…

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. My experience spans teaching, freelancing, and running my own creative business.

You can view examples of my work here: Website not available. Sign in: https://www.twine.net/signup

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.

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Skills

Experience Level

Photo
Expert
Logo
Expert
Brand Identity
Expert
Flyer
Expert
Illustration
Expert
Poster
Expert
Presentation Design
Intermediate
Book Illustration
Intermediate
Editorial Illustration
Intermediate
Portrait
Intermediate
Web Design
Intermediate
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Language

English
Fluent
French
Intermediate

Work Experience

Business Owner (Graphic Designer + Photographer) at Wonderbird Photography & Design Studio
January 1, 2019 - November 7, 2025
Operated a photography and graphic design studio; delivered branding, design, and photography services; collaborated with clients and managed projects.
Contracted Senior Graphic Designer at Measuring Outcomes Ltd
January 1, 2024 - January 1, 2024
Digital design and print design; contributed to branding and production across client projects.
Business Owner (Graphic Designer + Photographer) at Catherine Adam Photography & Design
January 1, 2019 - January 1, 2019
Owned and operated freelance photography and design business providing branding and visual communication services.
Creative Director / Senior Designer / Mentor at Open Lab, CoCA, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
January 1, 2015 - January 1, 2015
Led digital design and print design projects; mentored junior designers; contributed to exhibition design and academic collaborations.
Typography Tutor at CoCA, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
January 1, 2014 - January 1, 2014
Taught typography courses within CoCA and Massey University; supported student learning and design pedagogy.
Senior Graphic Designer at Story Inc Ltd, Wellington, New Zealand
January 1, 2011 - January 1, 2011
Exhibition design, print design; contributed to branding and visual communication for clients.
Senior Graphic Designer at 4 Corners Design, Manhattan, New York
January 1, 2007 - January 1, 2007
Digital design and print design for diverse clients in NYC; collaborative team environment.
Creative Director / Senior Designer / Mentor at Open Lab, CoCA, Massey University
January 1, 2015 - January 1, 2015
Overseeing digital and print design projects and mentoring students in a university-based studio environment.
Typography Tutor at CoCA, Massey University
January 1, 2014 - January 1, 2014
Typography tutor teaching type, layout, and typographic fundamentals.
Senior Graphic Designer at Story Inc Ltd
January 1, 2011 - January 1, 2011
Senior graphic designer with focus on digital design and print design across branding and marketing collateral.
Senior Graphic Designer at 4 Corners Design
January 1, 2007 - January 1, 2007
Senior graphic designer delivering digital design, print design, and client branding for a Manhattan-based agency.

Education

Post Graduate Diploma in Visual Communication (Distinction) at Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
January 1, 2014 - January 1, 2014
Graduate Diploma in Visual Communication (Distinction) at Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
January 1, 2011 - January 1, 2011
Introductory Certificate in Design at Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
January 1, 2000 - January 1, 2000
Bachelor of Arts (1st Class French Honours) at Victoria University, Wellington, New Zealand
January 1, 1999 - January 1, 1999
Bachelor of Arts (1st Class French Honours) at Victoria University, Wellington, New Zealand
January 1, 1999 - January 1, 1999
Introductory Certificate in Design at Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
January 1, 2000 - January 1, 2000
Graduate Diploma in Visual Communication (Distinction) at Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
January 1, 2011 - January 1, 2011
Post Graduate Diploma in Visual Communication (Distinction) at Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
January 1, 2013 - January 1, 2014
Post Graduate Diploma in Visual Communication (Distinction) at Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2014
Graduate Diploma in Visual Communication (Distinction) at Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2011
Introductory Certificate in Design at Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2000
Bachelor of Arts (1st Class French Honours) at Victoria University, Wellington, New Zealand
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 1999

Qualifications

International Society of Typographic Design - Membership with Commendation
January 1, 2013 - November 7, 2025
Membership with Commendation, International Society of Typographic Design
January 1, 2013 - November 7, 2025
Finalist, Best Design Awards (Print): Into Sight, Into Mind
January 1, 2013 - November 7, 2025

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Education, Professional Services, Other
    uniE621 Bringing Commonsense Organics to Life
    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.…
    paper Designing a Book with Heart

    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

    paper Inner Nature Cards Deck – Design & Photography

    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

    uniE621 Publication & Marketing for Organic Apple Cider Vinegar
    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.…
    uniE621 Web design for Growth
    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.…
    uniE621 Designing a Brand for Wellbeing
    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.…