Ben Montague
Visual Communication MA Student
📍 University of Salford
📧 business.ben.montague@gmail.com 🌐 xvii-ben.design
Profile
I’m a flexible and curious visual communicator with a background in graphic design and a passion for thoughtful, idea-driven work. Currently studying for an MA in Visual Communication at the University of Salford, I enjoy adapting my creative approach to suit each project — whether it’s designing harm reduction campaigns, experimenting with digital illustration, or developing bold packaging concepts. I’m especially interested in how design can educate, inform, and make real a impact — and in the future, I hope to pass on my knowledge through teaching at a college level or university level.
Education
MA Visual Communication
University of Salford | 2024 – Present
- Focused on harm reduction, education, and socially conscious design
- Developed multi-format campaigns combining print, typography, and illustration
BA (Hons) Graphic Design — 2:1
University of Salford | [2024]
- Built strong foundations in branding, packaging, and digital design
- Explored creative software including Blender for 3D concept work
Creative Projects
Together for Change – Harm Reduction Campaign
MA Major Project | 2024 – Present
- Created a campaign aimed at destigmatising substance use while promoting safe practices
- Designed print media and educational resources for a fictional harm reduction conference
- Balanced accessible visuals with complex, information-heavy content
- Elements have been positively received and used within informal harm reduction communities
Pringles Promotional Packaging Design
BA Project | University of Salford
- Developed unique promotional packaging concept for Pringles using Blender
- Focused on playful, engaging design with real-world branding appeal
- Created 3D mockups to visualise packaging in a retail context
Digital Landscape Illustration
Self-Initiated | Ongoing
- Created a series of atmospheric, digital landscape illustrations
- Shared regularly via personal portfolio site
- Reflects a personal passion for moody, stylised environments and visual storytelling
Pet Photography (Freelance)
Self-Initiated | Ongoing
- Offered bespoke dog photography sessions to local clients
- Managed editing, client communication, and social media promotion
- Built creative confidence and client-facing experience
Podcast Branding Project
Freelance | 2023
- Designed visual identity and assets for a podcast concept
- Explored multiple visual directions and brand ideas
- TThe project demonstrated conceptual thinking and typographic exploration
Skills & Tools
- Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign
- Blender (3D modelling/rendering)
- Figma (basic layout & prototyping)
- Digital illustration
- Photography & editing
- Concept development
- Typography & layout
Future Goals
- Continue designing work with a social and educational impact
- Explore teaching opportunities in design at university or college level
- Learn British Sign Language (BSL) to make both design and teaching more inclusive and accessible