How to Trust Your Instincts and Embrace Versatility
An interview with @Bonesonedesigns Curated By @Sonderplant
Can you introduce yourself and share a bit about your background in graphic design?
Hi, I’m Bones One. I’m a designer and artist.
What initially sparked your interest in graphic design and led you to pursue it as a career?
I’ve always been into art but my girlfriend actually was the number one person that got me into design. She studied graphic design so anytime I had a question about how to do smth would just ask her. Without her I probably would have quit.
What is your favorite part about designing?
Honestly I just like making art and being creative. So getting to do that and be paid for it is a dream come true.
Who or what inspires you as a graphic designer, and how does it influence the work you create?
Too many to count. I am a fan before I am an artist. But the impact Hellstar Seanie has had on the field is unprecented, so he is definitely up there. More than anyone though: Virgil Abloh and Rick Rubin. I love hearing them talk.
How would you describe your design style, and do you believe having a unique style is important in design?
I try to be versatile and just have fun with it. I personally like artists with a distinct personal style, but I think having personal style does not necessarily have to be a visual style. There could be an intangible quality that makes a certain piece of word “feel” like yours.
Could you explain your approach to handling a new graphic design project, from understanding the client's requirements to delivering the final product?
I’m not sure if I have a set approach but the process of gathering visual inspo is very important to me. Apps like Pinterest and ar.ena are very useful. Even grailed or vintage/thrift pages on Instagram. Internet archives, museums, books album covers too.
Getting to work with a lot of huge brands like Vertebrae, Hellstar, Nightclub how do the milestones make you feel? Can you shed some light on the journey that led to these opportunities?
I haven’t actually worked with Vertabrae (yet) and while I have worked with Hellstar, they have not used any of the graphics (yet). But I love making concept designs for these brands and hopefully will work closer with them in the future.
If you had the chance to make a change within the graphic design industry, what would it be and why?
More understanding from clients, More creative control, better pay. I’m in a lucky position but I see some designers that absolutely carry streetwear brands but still have to work extra day jobs.
What is your all-time favorite piece of media (movie/anime) that has left a lasting impact on you?
Yeats music (released as well as unreleased). I played “Tonka” over 100 times when I was pulling a design all nighter one time.
What would you say if you could offer advice to your younger self starting out in graphic design?
Trust your instincts. Know your worth. Bet on yourself.
Do you have any advice for beginner graphic designers struggling to find their place within the field?
There is beauty in everything but not everybody sees it. Look for inspo everywhere. Also, post a lot and never stop.
Is there anything else you would like to mention or shout out to?
Shoutout to all my ##new gen brothers. When I look at early pictures of Kanye, Virgil and Don C at PFW I see us. They were oustiders just like us
A @Thevisualpharmacy & @Sonderplant collaboration