I'm a multidisciplinary designer from Sydney, Australia operating under my freelance alias of Velvet Spectrum since 2007. I moved to NYC in early 2011 to take up a position with Vault 49, after a year living in Cambodia, where i used that time to teach myself 3D. I crave variety in my work so i jump between typography, 3D and illustration constantly. I enjoy experimenting with 3D in ways that translate to more of an illustrative aesthetic.
What inspired you to become a designer?
I was always drawing my favorite comics growing up, but never had the confidence or the guidance to know how to make a career from it. I wasn't the most astute studier, so i avoided the idea of higher education at all costs. I spent the first couple of years after high school working odd jobs in demolition and bar tending. This helped me realize that i needed a more creative endeavor to satisfy me. I taught myself enough to start working up 21st invitations for my friends, which helped fill out an awful initial portfolio and somehow talked my way into a junior designer position at a marketing agency in Sydney.
What design software do you use?
My 3D work is done in Cinema 4D, and of course the trusty Photoshop and Illustrator. A pad and pencil is a must when starting any job, to quickly work out compositions.
What is your ideal work environment?
My day job as Senior Designer at Vault 49 allows me to work with some amazingly talented people, which keeps me constantly challenging myself to keep up with them. At night i like to put on some It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia in the background and work away at my own personal and commissioned projects.
Where does your design inspiration come from?
Instagram has allowed me to curate my inspiration from so many varied directions. I take inspiration from tattoo artists such as Valerie Vargas and Paul Dobleman, to travel photographers like Trev Lee. Im constantly trying to bring these elements together in my artworks as they are particular passions of mine.
Who is the person you admire most?
Pendleton Ward, the creator of Adventure Time opened my eyes to pushing reality to the side and really testing my imagination.
I also have a real appreciation for artists that don't confine themselves to one facet of creativity such as Jonathan Zawada, David Lynch and Danny Sangra.