Queer Design Club

Carol Douse is an award-winning graphic designer and founder of Oldowan Co., using design as a pro-social tool to empower marginalized communities. Her work blends creativity with impact, recognized by @blackdesignersofcanada.

How does being queer inform your work?

Being queer deeply shapes my work, as it’s rooted in the values of liberation and expression. My experiences in the queer community encourage me to center authenticity, amplify marginalized voices, and challenge oppressive structures. I aim to create spaces where people feel seen and empowered, using creativity as a tool for social change.

What are your favorite pieces of queer visual culture?

One of my favorite pieces of queer visual culture is the work of Jared Olsever. His art speaks to the beauty of queer identity through bold, raw expression and challenges societal norms, pushing boundaries in ways that resonate with my own creativity and freedom.

Which other queer people inspire you?

Audre Lorde, the activist and spoken word artist, has been a massive inspiration. Her unapologetic approach to intersectionality, her advocacy for marginalized groups, and her emphasis on self-expression through language continue to inform and empower my work. Lorde’s work reminds me of the importance of using one’s voice for justice, especially in the face of adversity.