A quarter past five in Zurich. While the city is still asleep, German Villotti sets off for Triesen. An hour later, relaxed and focused, he arrives at his workplace at the UFL (Private University in the Principality of Liechtenstein). For the graphic designer, the daily commute means not only mobility, but also space for ideas, reflection, and creative energy. For almost ten years, he has been designing the university's visual identity, contributing his experience from more than three decades of freelance graphic design work with a passion that is immediately apparent.

Professional background and responsibilities

At UFL, German Villotti is responsible for everything related to graphics and visual appearance. From branding to advertising materials, course flyers, and digital media design, his goal is to create a consistent, recognizable brand image. "The logo is the heart of every brand. It should be clear, simple, and unambiguous. The right color, the right shape, and you've got recognition," he explains. His many years of experience as a freelance graphic designer in Zurich perfectly complement his work at UFL. Professional pride, technical skill, aesthetic sensibility, and creative flexibility enable him to develop the brand strategically and visually. He particularly appreciates the opportunity to be part of the daily process on site in Triesen, to recognize connections, to support decisions, and to continuously strengthen the visual identity together with the team.

Creative on the way

Early in the morning, when the streets are still quiet, German Villotti sets off from Zurich to Liechtenstein. "I use the time in the car to think about ideas. I often set off without any specific design ideas, and inspiration for implementation comes to me during the journey."

Commuting from Wollishofen to Sargans by public transport takes too long, so he prefers to drive. For him, work-life balance does not mean separating work and leisure time, but rather enjoying his job. "Graphic design is my passion. I see myself as a service provider.

Impressions, people, and moments that shape everyday life

I appreciate Liechtenstein not only professionally, but also personally. It is manageable and friendly, and I really like the informal culture. A simple "Hoi" immediately breaks down barriers and makes everyday life pleasant. I am particularly impressed by the cultural diversity: people from many nations live here, speak different dialects, and yet you feel a shared openness.

Compared to Zurich, I immediately notice the difference in mentality. That city is hectic and often stressful, whereas here I experience a calm dynamism. People are just as productive, but without the artificial stress. They take their time, enjoy the moment, and I really like that.

Life, Passion, and Philosophy

Graphic design is my passion! I originally worked as a mechanical engineer. One day, I was standing in my office—about 50 meters long, with one drawing table after another—and asked myself, "Is this how I want to grow old?" I decided to travel the world. Shortly before I left, a good colleague called me and said, "Hey, I have an apprenticeship as a graphic designer for you—are you interested?" The inner struggle began: devil on one shoulder, angel on the other... I decided to take the job.

Design fascinates me because there is always a blank sheet on which you can create something. In the past it was on paper, today it's digital – but the meaning remains the same. I can express my view of things artistically, through drawing, designing surfaces, making prints or reproductions, and at the same time communicating with people. All of this fulfills me day after day.

I also have many passions in my private life—music is like a diary full of memories for me, drawing is simply part of my everyday life, and cooking is a way for me to treat myself. In recent years, I have discovered motorcycling for trips to the lakes, often accompanied by my favorite author, Haruki Murakami. I already have new projects in mind for the future: pottery and aikido – let's see if I lose myself in them as much as I do in my drawings," he says with a smile.

For German Villotti, Liechtenstein is a place where creativity, quality of life, and job satisfaction come together perfectly. Commuting from Zurich is not an obstacle, but part of his routine, which creates space for ideas and sharpens his focus. The combination of professional responsibility, a friendly environment, cultural diversity, and personal inspiration makes his everyday work particularly rewarding.

"I feel connected, responsible, and motivated here. Liechtenstein is more than just a workplace for me—it's a place where you can grow as a person and as a creative individual."