23 questions!

Many moons ago, when ACP closed shop in Melbourne, a young(er) Felipe strolled into the Artisan offices (back when we were younger too). Years later, deciding that it's time to move on from the job we placed him in, a still young Felipe has strolled back through the Artisan doors and we've welcomed him with open arms... and a list of questions! Yes, our favourite Creative Bent-er is back to the world of freelance and Artisan couldn't be happier.

What sparked your passion for design?
I've always been creative. I fell into design after high school and I immediately developed a passion for the creative freedom it gives you.

How creative were you as a youngster?
In between playing Nintendo and punching on with my brothers, I would draw a lot, copying photos and developing an eye for detail. I was always happy making things with my hands. Lego is awesome!

Do you come from a creative family? Were they supportive of your desire to be a designer?
Do I ever! My old man is a bit of a musician and into pottery, while mum's into her sewing and has just taken up the guitar. My brothers are both great illustrators and aspiring designers, which developed into a bit of a rivalry – a great incentive to improve! Now we are all supportive of each other. Mostly.

What sort of education and training have you had?
I did a course at Chisholm, then took a gamble and tried to jump into the industry. I've never looked back since...

Who did you want to work for when you first entered the industry?
I always wanted to get into the Video Games industry or illustration of some sort, but ended up in publishing, working with ACP.

Tell us about your first project and what do you feel about it now?
The first publication I worked on was a weekly mag called Aus Auto Action. Initially working on the advertising, I eventually worked with the editorial team laying out the mag. It was a great way to learn all about those wonderful deadlines!

What is your preferred software to work with and what has been the greatest advancement in technology over the past 5 years? Photoshop is my favourite but I'm a fan of the Creative Suite all around. The greatest advancements in technology would have to be the Mac laptops and iMac. My 17" laptop could somehow manage to work with some massive Photoshop files and not fall over. Now my iMac is my latest & greatest toy!

What are the various mediums that you’ve worked with and is there any that you would like to explore? I've pretty much done the majority of print mediums with a touch of photography. Outside of work, I'm into illustration, street art and trying to find the time for music and animation. I have always wanted to do web, which is next on the hit list.

Is digital technology going to eliminate the need for print?
No, because there's always people like me that like to have something in their hands to feel, touch and own. You will never get that feeling with digital technology. Deforestation on the other hand, is going to be the end of print.

Whose work do you really admire and why?
Mainly those who I work with. They are the ones that I learn the most from, influence me directly and the ones that push me to be better. Outside of them there's plenty of brilliant designers, illustrators, artist, DJs and musicians who inspire me creatively – Garry Emery, the Everfresh Crew, 123KLAN, DJ Shadow & U.N.K.L.E. are just a few that come to mind.

Who has been the greatest person that you’ve ever had the pleasure of working with and what have they taught you? Everyone I've worked with has been great. I've been lucky enough to work with people that are very open to sharing their knowledge. Di Roche is worth a mention - BIG talented & personality, all in a tiny, little package!

What has been your greatest achievement so far?
Being involved in setting up and running Creative Bent has been a great experience. Our monthly events are ever growing and gaining a larger following and more support around the city.

How would you describe your work?
Accurate and thorough. It has to be, as a finished artist, otherwise you're out of a job really.

What are your plans for the future?
New adventures and challenges! I also want to explore web & animation, as well as creating a few comics for good measure.

What sort of company would you like to work with next?
Hopefully somewhere with a great team of talented people who are passionate about what they do.

What is your opinion of Australian design?
I think it's strong. I can always look around locally and find some amazing stuff produced for the local and international market.

What is the best/worst thing about being a designer in Australia?
It's not New York. It's not New York.

In your opinion, what is the greatest challenge the Australian design industry has to face in the near future? Taking over the world.

What is your creative outlet outside of design?
Illustration and stencils. I can't stop creating stuff....

What is the best designed bar in Melbourne?
Good question. I like the look of New Gold Mountain. Cartlon Club as well, just because I remember what a dive it used to be!

What are your top 5 websites at the moment?
youtube.com
cubeecraft.com
nawlz.com
niceproduce.com.au
creativebent.com.au

What CD are you currently listening to and is it any good?
I've just discovered Bookashade's Movements and it's brilliant. FabricLive 39 by DJ Yoda is pretty entertaining too. (NB: Lawrence - I can back up Felipe on Bookashade's album - lots of fun with a touch of humour too!)

If I was a font, I’d be...? Comic Sans on a bad day, Helvetica on a good day, cos it's versatile and timeless.

Do you need an A-List Artisan like Felipe in your studio? Would you like to know more? Contact Cristal NOW.