About me
I am an independent designer and map publisher with an aim to make information open and easily understandable. I use graphics as a tool to convey knowledge and communicate to large audiences. I approach problems with creativity and openness and am interested in finding real solutions. I love to work with individuals, organisations and businesses on positive and sustainable projects that benefit communities and the planet.
Work History
GRAPHIC DESIGNER & OFFICE ASSISTANT
Mmeedia, IT Company
2001 – 2002
Pärnu & Tallinn
COMPUTER GRAPHIC DESIGNER
University of Tartu, National University
2002 – 2006
Tartu
GRAPHIC ARTIST
Miniclip, Game Publisher
2009 – 2012
Tallinn & London
WEB ADMINISTRATOR
NEPCON, Environmental NGO
2014 – 2015
Tartu
DIGITAL LEARNING SPECIALIST
for eu-LISA, EU Organisation
2017 – 2018
Tallinn
INDEPENDENT GRAPHIC DESIGNER & MAP PUBLISHER
HI Design, Creative Company
2019 – Current
Tallinn
In addition to full-time employment I have also worked independently on commissions since 2001, first as self-employed and then since 2009 under my own company. I have also used the years out of full-time employment for studies, travelling and independent learning as well as developing personal work.
Experience
DESIGN
Graphic design
Information design
Map design
Illustration
UI/UX Design
MAPMAKING
Google Maps
GIS Mapping
WEB & SOCIAL MEDIA
Moodle/Totara Administration
Web Administration
Homepage design
Social Media
Blogging
PUBLISHING
Independent publishing
Online shop management
Customer relations
OTHER
Media & Podcast interviews
My main profession is graphic design, but I have tapped into various additional roles during my career, most recently as micro-publisher of maps running an online shop. I am always interested in pursuing new paths and following my passions combining creativity with travel and sustainability.
Education
DIPLOMA
Tourism and Hotel Management
University of Tartu Pärnu College
1998 – 2001
Interactive Multimedia MA
Estonian Academy of Arts
(enrolled to UWE)
2005 – 2006
MASTER’S DEGREE
Media (Animation) MA
University of the West of England
2006 – 2008
I studied Tourism on undergraduate level, where I developed an interest in visual media thanks to my design focused thesis. After pursuing a self-taught graphic design career for couple of years I officially enrolled to Media degree course, which led to successfully completing MA Animation studies in Bristol.
Industry
2019 London Greenground Map was displayed during London National Park City* launch & fair
2022 Online guest speaker at British Cartographic Society Members Conference
Greenground Maps have been featured in several media outlets and podcasts. The idea has received endorsements from industry professionals and general public alike.
Projects
I like to work with independent projects benefiting the planet and communities through open information sharing and positive design. For the last couple of years my main focus has been on changing how people perceive cities by inspiring them to connect with open spaces by active travel.
Helen Ilus 