Designer Stories: The Sensor
Embarking on a journey into the creative cosmos of The Sensor, the brilliant artist behind one of Skull Mushroom's iconic Grime Killer bottle designs, we delve into the early days of design, seek career insights, and explore the distinctive inspirations shaping this visionary artist's world. In this exclusive interview, The Sensor shares in-depth reflections, personal anecdotes, and a profound look into the artistic process that transforms ideas into captivating visuals.
Q: What age were you when you first started designing anything? What did you design?
A: Pinpointing the exact age is a challenge, but my love for drawing blossomed in elementary school. It wasn't until high school, around the age of 18, that I stumbled upon design using Paint software on a Windows computer. I distinctly remember my inaugural design – a character with a round purple face and two horns. The humor in questioning whether Paint qualifies as design software adds a delightful twist to those formative years.
Q: What is the best place in the world to be a designer?
A: While Japan may be a design haven, my roots in Indonesia compel me to transform it into the best place for anything. Ha ha ha. It's about infusing your surroundings with passion and making the most of the unique characteristics of your environment.
Q: Where do you usually work from? What's your ideal setup?
A: The serenity of working from home holds a special place in my heart. Silence and minimal distractions make evenings, ideally at night, my sacred time for creation. The calm atmosphere fosters an environment where inspiration flows freely, although mornings, especially with a cup of coffee or tea, can be equally invigorating.
Q: Who do you dream of collaborating with one day and why?
A: A dream collaboration awaits with the esteemed sneaker brand PUMA. As an avid sneaker enthusiast, my best memories are associated with PUMA, making this collaboration a cherished aspiration. Who knows, maybe this dream can become a reality. Hehehehe.
Q: What worries or scares you about the future of design?
A: The looming threat of AI technology and its potential impact on design is a genuine concern. Misunderstandings about the role of AI in the creative process pose challenges. And, of course, the Earth stopping its rotation adds a touch of humor to these worries.
Q: What's the best career advice you've ever received?
A: The most impactful advice echoes the recognition of individual strengths – everyone has their unique portion and expertise. Maximizing your potential within those bounds becomes the key to a fulfilling career.
Q: When you're running low on motivation, what do you do to pick yourself up?
A: To reignite motivation, I turn to the pulsating beats of fast-paced music, particularly pop punk. The youthful energy it exudes serves as a powerful catalyst to rejuvenate my creative spirit. Ha ha ha ha.
Q: What was the last thing you saw online that surprised you?
A: A recent masterpiece by my favorite street artist, DARBOTZ, left me in awe. His collaboration in creating a children's playground and installations filled with images of monsters tailored to a cute children's theme is nothing short of genius!
Q: If you could be anyone in the designer's world for a day, who would you choose and why?
A: Selecting DARBOTZ from the world of graffiti, I believe many graffiti artists inherently embody elements of design. His slightly abstract yet regular illustration style, coupled with excellent composition, makes his work adaptable across various media. Graffiti artists provide a unique wellspring of inspiration.
Q: What advice can you give people who want to break into design but don't know where to start?
A: A journey into the world of design demands a thorough exploration of every facet related to it. Joining communities or connecting with like-minded individuals provides a rich source of references and insights through meaningful conversations. Regularly attending art exhibitions complements this journey, offering a diverse panorama of artistic expressions and fueling enthusiasm to create.
Q: If money were no object, what would you do with your time?
A: While money is a universal concern, a high level of gratitude can mitigate its impact, allowing the pursuit of activities that bring joy and fulfillment. I would dedicate ample time to art – whether drawing or making music – finding solace and purpose in the artistic process.
Q: What do you think will be the biggest shift in design over the next 20 years?
A: The ever-changing landscape of design trends is unpredictable. However, the growing trend of collaborations between artists and brands stands out. This presents a fascinating opportunity for artists to showcase their creativity and evolve in this dynamic field.
Q: What do you believe that few might agree with?
A: A taste for bitter food sets me apart. Bitterness, often overlooked, carries its own unique charm, much like the complexities that surface in art.
