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About Natalie Ex | Japanese Graphic Designer & Illustrator in Melbourne

 
Natalie Ex, Melbourne-based graphic designer and illustrator, posing with one of her paintings in her studio.

From playful touches to refined professionalism, I craft visual solutions that elevate your brand and make a lasting impression

Hi, I’m Nat

Hi, I’m Nat. My half-Japanese upbringing inspires much of my work, influencing the clarity, balance, and thoughtful detail in everything I create.

What I Do

I design highly polished visual solutions that bridge the gap between corporate and creative industry design. I help corporate clients elevate their brand presence with warmth, grounded confidence, and playfulness. For creative professionals, I provide structure, polish, and strategic thinking to make their work feel cohesive and refined. Each project is thoughtfully crafted to be visually engaging, purposeful, and aligned with client goals, delivering results that are professional, distinctive, and memorable.

Natalie Ex’s workspace featuring a Mac computer and design materials, showcasing her creative environment.

About Me

I graduated from design school in 2002 and spent over a decade working in digital marketing and graphic design roles before starting my full-time creative practice in 2016. My career path has been anything but ordinary. I even spent time working in International Relations before focusing fully on design. That experience gave me a unique perspective on culture, communication, and how visuals can bridge divides.

Since going independent, I’ve worked with clients across industries, combining strategic design thinking with a playful, polished aesthetic. Alongside client work, I create personal artwork that allows me to experiment with ideas and keep my creativity fresh.

I’m also a DJ of 23 years, which has given me a deep appreciation for rhythm, flow, and the ways creativity connects people.

When I’m not working, I enjoy the simple things; walks by the harbour, catch ups with friends, the gym, and the occasional dive into philosophy and mindfulness (often with my cat, Chibi, nearby).