About
ConefreyKoedam Grafisch Ontwerp is a partnership of two graphic designers, Ann M. Conefrey & Marco Koedam. Ann has an artistic background and is an expert in tactile graphic design with knowledge of braille. Marco has a strong typographical and photographic background. He specializes in corporate identities and web design and development.
We’d like to introduce ourselves and tell you more about our background and what motivates us as designers.
Ann M. Conefrey
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After graduating from University in Bristol (UWE) at the end of the 80’s, I moved to the Netherlands where I have been working ever since as a graphic designer. For the last ten years I have specialized in tactile graphic design. By combining my art and design background with firsthand knowledge of visual disabilities and braille, I am in the unique position to create inclusive and accessible designs. In 2014 I set up BrailleDots as a platform to promote the use of braille and tactile design by researching and initiating projects, either independently or in collaboration with others.
What are you passionate about?
‘My passion and affinity lies with tactile, touchable design. I am particularly interested in researching the tactility of materials and exploring the possibilities of both traditional and modern tactile graphic techniques. I set up Braille Dots as a response to the lack of inclusive design for printed media. As designers and parents to a blind daughter, if we don’t care about making printed communication more accessible then who will?’
How do you develop yourself as a designer?
‘Over the years I have developed a broad network (National and International) within the world of visual disabilities. I have gained valuable experience and knowledge as a member of resonance groups and by taking part in research projects, symposia and conferences. I am currently following the two year part-time Master Design at the WdKA/PZI in Rotterdam, researching tactile communication.’
What are your ambitions?
‘High on my list would be the design and production of quality, affordable tactile books. I’d also like to continue researching and developing multi-sensory design solutions. Hopefully one day a more inclusive approach to design will be the norm.’
Thank you for taking the time to read this. I welcome opportunities for multidisciplinary collaborations. You can learn more about my work and design research by visiting brailledots.nl. You can also find me on Twitter-X or LinkedIn.
Marco Koedam
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I began my career as a designer at the end of the 80’s, having graduated in graphic design and typographic design from the Royal Academy of Art in the Hague. Graphic (printing) techniques, type design, calligraphy, typography and photography not only formed the basis of my study but continue to play an active role in my creative development. We started our partnership in 1993 after a kick-start working for several years by well-known studios: Total Design in Amsterdam, followed by 2D3D in the Hague.
What are you passionate about?
‘I find the tension in the relationship between form and content a fascinating area to investigate. A ‘blank sheet’ literally indicates the playing field and is an important condition in a figurative sense. Searching for creative solutions, within the design criteria but without preconceived ideas is an interesting and inspiring challenge and a fascinating process.’
How do you develop yourself as a designer?
‘By keeping a close eye on changes in society and the resulting changing context for words and images. This influences the relationship with clients and the design process.‘
What are your ambitions?
‘I see the value and usefulness of Ann’s plans to develop affordable tactile books and I definitely want to contribute to that. Expanding our online shop with more unique products is also an intention. Self-publishing a photography book with my own work is also on my list.’
Work included in the Dutch Archive Graphic Designers, NAGO. You can view my photography on marcokoedam.com.
Contact
- ConefreyKoedam
Grafisch Ontwerp - Roemer Visscherlaan 8
- Zeist 3705 SG
- The Netherlands
- Telephone +31 30 2217070
- Email studio@coko.nl
- COC 30280603
- VAT NL.8012.66.002.B.01