ANNABEL BLAKE + DEBORAH HO
DESIGN
What do you do? Deborah Ho: I’m a designer and illustrator working in the animation industry. Annabel Blake: I’m a behavioural strategist and researcher in a neuroscience lab, but also have a knack for making games. Our winning project, Talu Tales, is a Stem-based storytelling card game! Why did you choose that path? DH: At first, we approached Talu Tales purely as a side project. We thought we could finish it in three months, sell a few copies and show it off in our portfolios. As time went on, we realised it had serious legs, and the process of designing a product from scratch was so fun and fulfilling that we just kept going with it. What inspires you? AB: Children’s writers who are talking about big topics like mental health, brains and wellbeing in really beautiful ways. Why did you enter the Good Stuff awards? DH: It was a good kick in the butt to get our work polished and ready for people to see. Best piece of advice you’ve received?
AB: “List your priorities. One. Two. Three. Cut three.” I have a really busy brain and have to keep my focus on just a few things at once. DH: “Done is better than perfect.” What are you working on right now? AB: Launching! The last 10 per cent of work feels like the biggest, as we’re in the process of getting our first order out into the world. One thing we should know about you? DH: I really like tiny shoes. One day I plan to make a Muppet version of myself so I can hand-sew tiny stylish shoes for it. Greatest achievement so far? DH: Getting as far as we have with Talu Tales. Last year, Annabel and I were living on opposite ends of the world, and somehow we managed to keep going with it, despite our days being filled with other work. And the biggest challenge? AB: I have a background in psychology, and often feel unqualified working around so many talented creatives. Who do you look up to? DH: Shaun Tan. I grew up with his books and they’ve stuck with me ever since. His illustration style is so unique and profound. Where can we see your work? littleliterature.co
Design judge Beci Orpin says: I loved the concept for the Talu Tales game – it’s something I want to play with both my kids and adult friends. The illustrations are delightful and the whole game looks like it would come together in a very smart package.