WIth an insider's knowledge of print and having worked at various design studios and agencies, Mindy Blinkhorn decided to hang her own shingle, in 2001. The name Blue Aardvark came about as an attempt to find a domain name that wasn't already taken. Mindy admits that it was difficult to answer the phone using “Blue Aardvark” the first time it rang, but then it has been tough to answer the phone with “Mindy Blinkhorn” for even longer.

Who / what is Blue Aardvark?

Blue Aardvark is a collective. A professional team is assembled according to your needs. If you need a photographer who shoots interiors, we've got one. If you need an illustrator who specializes in pen and ink, we've got one. Because of Blue Aardvark's size we are always aware of your details and deadlines. You're not paying for an in-house illustrator, or photographer, or copywriter, or traffic manager, or – well you get the idea. If don't need them, you don't pay for them. You receive the attention you deserve, and your project is completed when required and according to the budget.

How do you work?

Each job is controlled by a process specific to its requirements. When you receive a proposal from Blue Aardvark, it will outline the necessary tasks and milestones involved with the project so you know exactly what you're going to get. And you'll know this before any work is initiated. Straightforward. No hair pulling and you'll still like us.

What sorts of stuff do you design and for whom?

Blue Aardvark has designed logos, magazines, books, catalogues, websites, posters, displays, signage and tent graphics for a flea circus. We've done work for theatre companies, research institutes, real estate agents, organizers, freelancers. You're not too big, nor are you too small for the likes of Blue Aardvark.

What is the oddest thing you have designed?

A logo that included a blue aardvark.

Favourite colour?

Blue.

Favourite animal?