Designer Stories: Luisvi Stayweird
A captivating exploration into the creative psyche of Luisvi Stayweird, the visionary artist behind a mesmerizing Grime Killer bottle design in collaboration with Skull Mushroom. This exclusive interview peels back the layers of Stayweird's artistic journey, revealing the intricacies of his inspiration and his distinctive perspective on the ever-evolving world of design.
Q: If you could be anyone in the designers' world for a day, who would you pick and why?
A: I am content with my style, and being true to myself is paramount. However, if I had to choose, I'd pick Jimbo Phillips, an iconic figure in the world of design. Renowned for his groundbreaking contributions to skateboard art, Jimbo Phillips has left an indelible mark on the industry. His distinct, vibrant style and innovative approach to design have influenced generations of artists. Spending a day in his creative shoes would not only be an exploration of a design legend's mind but also a unique opportunity to absorb the wisdom and inspiration forged through a legendary career in visual art.
Q: Who do you dream of collaborating with one day and why?
A: Dreaming of a collaboration with Jimbo Phillips is fueled by his legendary status and profound influence on my work. His iconic style and pioneering contributions to skateboard art make him a dream collaborator, offering a chance to merge creative forces with a significant artistic influence.
Q: What is the best place in the world to be a designer?
A: Every designer has their sanctum, and mine is a room at home surrounded by illustrations, drawings, and sources of inspiration. This personal space serves as a cocoon where ideas metamorphose into creative masterpieces. My usual workspace is at home, in the comforting presence of my cats. This cocoon of creativity is where inspiration and comfort coalesce, fostering the perfect environment for artistic expression.
Q: What's the best career advice you've ever received?
A: Never underestimate your work. This invaluable piece of advice underscores the significance of recognizing and valuing one's creative endeavors, emphasizing the power and impact of artistic expression. Breaking into design is a journey, and the key is to relish every moment. Embrace the learning process, find joy in every creation, and let passion be the guiding force that propels you forward.
Q: What's the last thing you read that made a lasting impression or really got you to think differently?
A: The last impactful read was "El Hombre en Busca de Sentido" (Man's Search for Meaning) by Viktor Frankl. This profound exploration into human psychology and existentialism recounts Frankl's experiences as a Holocaust survivor. The book delves into the fundamental quest for purpose and meaning in life, providing a transformative perspective on finding resilience and hope even in the darkest of circumstances. Frankl's reflections on the human condition encourage introspection, offering profound insights that transcend time and leave an enduring mark on the reader's consciousness.
Q: What was the last thing you saw online that surprised you?
A: Discovering new designers daily is a perpetual surprise. The vast online realm continually introduces me to fresh and exciting artistic talent, creating a continuous stream of pleasant revelations.
Q: What would be the title of your autobiography and why?
A: "Laugh and Die" encapsulates the philosophy that defines my journey. Life's brevity encourages finding joy in laughter and living authentically, creating a narrative where laughter and a zest for life take center stage.
Q: Who are the people you admire and look to for inspiration?
A: Rather than drawing inspiration from a specific person or designer, I seek inspiration from the diverse world around me. CDs, movies, and various sources contribute to the eclectic tapestry that fuels my creative vision.
Q: What were some of your favorite designed products, toys, or gadgets when you were growing up as a kid?
A: Lego stands out as a childhood favorite, offering the joy of using my mind to build new creations daily. This iconic toy played a crucial role in shaping my love for design from an early age.
Q: What are you most excited about in the world of design today?
A: The emergence of new artists creating unique styles excites me the most. Discovering individuals who pioneer fresh aesthetics, something that hasn't existed before, is a thrilling testament to the limitless possibilities within the world of design.
Q: What worries or scares you about the future of design?
A: The looming presence of artificial intelligence is a concern, albeit humorously expressed. The idea of AI taking over design processes raises apprehensions, underlining the importance of maintaining a balance between technology and human creativity. As technology advances, people will learn to harness the power of artificial intelligence. Adapting to this shift will require constant reinvention, presenting both a challenge and an opportunity for designers to explore new horizons.
Q: If you won a chance to be in the first group of humans to colonize Mars, with the risk of never returning to Earth, would you go and why?
A: Personally, I would prefer to stay on Earth. While the idea of colonizing Mars is unique and striking, the uncertainties and risks associated with leaving our home planet are not a gamble I am willing to take.
