My name is Ant Sanders. I am Co-Founder of GIANT.
How did you get started in design? What is a turning point in your professional career?
I played in many bands for many years and have always loved it, art, design, architecture, etc. While on the road touring the country with various bands, I was always drawn to the art of apparel and merchandise design. That quickly became an awesome hobbie, and eventually career, for me. I designed merchandise and eventually websites and digital stuff for many bands, record labels, venues, etc within the “biz”. That then evolved into corporate clients, and expanding skillset into usability and user experience.
What is your ideal work environment?
I have a pretty rad home office with toys, vinyl records, posters, deer skulls, etc. I love it. I love working from home. I do like a solid day or two here and there of collaboration with a full team but for me, i love cranking old hip hop or punk rock tunes early in the AM and getting to it. It’s very rare that I don’t like the idea of sitting in my office by myself while working.
Where does your work inspiration come from?
One of the first things I do every morning is look through Feedly where I have things separated in RSS feed folders — one for inspiration, one for UX and one for music. I believe every designer is inspired at one point or another and every “idol” is just another human being.
Where are your favorite places in your city or outside?
I live just north of Charlotte, NC but spend a ton of time in Charleston, SC where GIANT is “headquartered” and also where we hold our yearly 4-day conference. There is nothing bad about Charleston at all. The food is the best in the world, the scenery is top-notch, the beaches are all unique in their own way and overall, it’s one of the most beautiful places on earth.
Who are the designers you admire most?
Locally (Charlotte) would have to be Matt Stevens. He’s such a rad dude and his work is killer. As for Charleston, J Fletcher kills it every single time. Overall, I love my bearded friend, Mr. Aaron Draplin. He’s such a kind soul and has been very kind to us!