16th July 2003
A young designer is flying out to one of Holland’s top agencies in a unique job swap arrangement which will result in a dual language book about the similarities and differences between the culture of North-East England and Holland.
The idea was dreamed up when, Jim Richardson head of Newcastle design agency Sumo, met several Dutch design companies whilst speaking at a conference in Holland earlier this year.
And now Sumo senior designer Sarah Tempest will be exchanging places with designer Paul Kooi at Dutch company G2K in Newcastle’s twin city of Groningen.
Miss Tempest said, "I’m really excited about the trip. I’ll be working with one of Holland’s most respected design firms and I expect to bring back some fresh and distinctive ideas and insight in to how the Dutch design community operates. I also see it as an opportunity to grow our expertise as an agency, by trying new ways of working."
Mr Richardson said: "Groningen is very similar to Newcastle, with a thriving cultural landscape, created following a post industrial regeneration. This job swap is a way in which we can share best practice and find new inspiration."
"At the same time we can offer a career opportunity and great learning experience for our staff, both for Sarah who will be going to Holland and for the rest of the team who will benefit from Paul joining us in Newcastle".