WNW Member Luca Venter is a South African photographer and director currently based in New York. We love his aesthetic and approach, on display with companies like Nike, Google, The New York Times, GAP, and Billie, and musical acts like Tennis, Liam Benzvi, and MF Doom.
Read MoreDrinking Not Drinking: London
We're inviting our UK community to join us for a fun night upstairs at The Green Room in Hoxton on Thursday 5th April, from 6pm-9pm. Come say hey and enjoy a free drink or two. Friends are welcome but everyone has to RSVP.
Read MoreMEET #3322 TOM LANE
MEET #3322 TOM LANE
Designer • Bristol, UK
WNW Member #3322 Tom Lane (alias: Ginger Monkey), is a freelance designer, letterer, and illustrator. His body of work encompasses intricate packaging designs, playful typographic posters, company branding, obsessively detailed illustrations and nearly everything in between.
We've teamed up with Tom and General Assembly to bring you Lettering Not Lettering, a mini workshop of typography, networking, and of course, beer. Tickets are sold out because Tom is awesome, but go here to get on the waitlist. Below, you can learn how the Ginger Monkey got his start and how talking shit in the pub can lead to the best ideas.
1. How did you get started as a designer?
I was a bit of a late bloomer. I had dabbled at art in my youth, a bit of watercolour here and there and some comic book sketching but it wasn’t until I was 18 that I discovered this thing called graphic design. Very fortunately I was working with someone in a supermarket that had been studying design and photography at our local art college in Herefordshire. He showed me his work and it sparked something. Shortly after, I had a bit of a crisis and could see what my life might be if I didn’t pull my finger out and change the path I was on. I quit my job and begged the art college to give me a chance to study and luckily they did.
2. How long have you been freelancing?
A pretty long time now, coming up on 11 years. I started as soon as I graduated university and I’ve always worked for myself.
3. Is there a time or place that you feel most creative/have the best ideas?
I’m a morning person when it comes to being at my best. I tend to do anything that involves using brain power at the start of the day when I’m fresh as I slowly get dumber as the day goes on. Although, there is a bit of a magic period at night, around 11pm that used to get me into trouble. I would get caught up with ideas and excitement, stay up too late and totally screw over my next day.
The good stuff often happens away from the studio or desk though. I think this is common for most people. Often ideas come together when I’m out shopping, driving somewhere or talking shit in the pub. I always like to build an incubation period into whatever I’m working on. Time to let it bounce around the head a little and shoot out an idea when it’s good and ready.
4. What's your ideal Working:Not Working ratio?
70/30, I love my work, developing ideas, making things and getting my hands dirty. I feel a bit lazy and flat if I’m not involved with it in some way. It’s not really work though if you feel like that about it is it? I do however, need and want to do a lot of other things. A 70/30 split keeps me nicely balanced but I tend to live in 80/20.
5. Do your parents understand what you do?
Sort of. The running joke is that I do 'colouring in' for a living. When my father wanted to open a coffee shop and asked me to help they definitely got a much better understanding of what I do through that process.
6. What scene from a movie makes you laugh just thinking about it?
Most of The Big Lebowski but my particular favourite is when Walter is giving Donny's ‘eulogy' on top of the cliff top and finds some way to arc it back to his experience in ‘Nam. Then proceeds to tip the ashes into the wind and they go straight into the Dude’s face.
7. If you were stranded on a desert island, with your computer, what 3 websites would you take with you?
YouTube, I could probably learn how to survive.
BBC so I can keep up with whats going on, I like to feel informed.
Rdio Plus subscription ;) so I have music, very important.
8. What do you do when Not Working?
A lot of sports and outdoors stuff to counteract sitting indoors for long periods of the day. I currently live out in the countryside with my girlfriend by the coast and have taken up surfing. I also play squash, swim, hit the gym, run, box and do yoga.
We’ve got a great group of friends that are mainly back in Bristol so we split our time between there and our place in Devon. We have folks coming down here often too, escaping the city so lots of cooking going on fueled by the consumption of vast quantities of gin and beer. Family time is very important too.
9. Do you have a hidden talent?
I can pull off some pretty mean head stands.
10. Any tips or advice for fellow freelancers?
If you’re fresh to freelancing I recommend focusing on producing quality work for the type of projects you want to do more of. It doesn’t matter if it’s a ‘real’ project or not. It comes down to the results. So self-directed projects are a must. If the right person at the right time sees it, they may hire you because you’ve demonstrated that you have already done a successful job of it. Don’t rely on someone else handing it to you – make it happen. Make it as easy as possible for potential clients to see where you're coming from and what you’re capable of. Also, promotion is mostly free these days. Produce something of quality and get it out across social networks, portfolio sites, blogs etc and it will do the work for you. You never know who’s watching. I also like to keep a good diary of people I work with or that enquire about working with me. Hit any dry patches and some 'checking in' emails with a few new pieces of work attached will probably get you a project or two.
11. What's your favorite thing on the internet this week?
I’m working on a packaging project at the moment that has meant I’m spending a lot of time looking at Arabic pattern work and architecture. I’m feeling pretty mesmerised but the stuff and very inspired!
12. Anything else you'd like to add that we haven't asked?
Just a big thanks for asking me to put this interview together and I look forward to meeting more of the members and team at the lettering workshop we’re putting on. Should be a blast.
More of Tom's Work
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MEET #6936 MARTI ROMANCES
MEET #6936 MARTI ROMANCES
WORKING NOT WORKING
Art Director • London, UK
With years of experience in Motion and UI Design, WNW Member #6936 Marti Romances has been able to work on films like Ex Machina, Guardians of the Galaxy, Captain America, and Avengers, as well as acclaimed video games. The past three years, Marti has served as Art Director at Territory Studio based in London. With his jam packed workload, we were curious how Marti spends his time not working as well as what the future holds, to which he pleads the fifth: "I wish I could talk about the projects I'm working on right now, but then I would have to change my status to 'Not working.' Lots of confidentiality contracts and non-disclosure agreements unfortunately..."
And yes, that is his real name.
1. How long have you been working as an Art Director? How did you get there?
I've been with Territory Studio as their Art Director for almost 3 years now. Before that I was working as a Motion Graphic artist for 5 years. The transition happened naturally, I never aimed to be an Art Director. My work both in graphic design and motion, when working on a project for Nintendo (before joining Territory), involved setting up the style for the rest of the team and that's when my role changed. That's why I consider myself a hands-on Art Director, as I'm still designing and animating everyday.
2. Is there a time or place that you feel most creative/have the best ideas?
After a good afternoon coffee, headphones on and good tunes to get into the zone. Either sketching in my notepad or straight on the screen. I don't know if we can consider ourselves lucky or not, we have a job we can do anywhere - you just need a good laptop and a notepad with you. Thats great freedom to get ideas from everywhere.
3. What's your ideal Working:Not Working ratio?
It really depends on what project I'm on. When I'm immersed on a film project for half of a year I try to go away for 2 weeks to disconnect and recharge batteries, and then later work on something different until another big film comes around. Ideally I would like to do 70% work, 30% not work while still doing personal projects at the same time. I feel very lucky I like my job and for me it's more playing rather than working.
4. Do your parents understand what you do?
They do now... it took me a while but after 9 years of me showing them some animated graphics I think now they get it. They like to stay at the end of the films to check if I'm on the credits, even if sometimes I'm not!
5. What scene from a movie makes you laugh just thinking about it?
A Fish Called Wanda. That scene where Kevin Kline pretends to speak italian to turn Jamie Lee Curtis on. Classic!
6. If you were stranded on a desert island, with your computer, what 3 websites would you take with you?
Soundcloud, Netflix and some sort of Bear Grylls survival website I guess
7. What do you do when Not Working?
Travel to visit family and friends or just for fun. I love sailing and road trips. If there is no time for that, I exercise or just chill and disconnect from the screens for a while.
8. Do you have a hidden talent?
Mixing together ingredients you would never imagine, while cooking. Have you ever tried a bacon and croissant omelette? You should.
9. Any tips or advice for freelancers?
We interview lots of freelancers and what really comes across as the most powerful thing for me is the passion. I know it may sound too cliche, but if you have passion for what you do, your work will talk for itself. That and lots of hard work... easy has never been fun.
10. What's your favourite thing on the internet this week?
The best week to ask me this question! The latest film I worked on for 7 months The Martian by Ridley Scott just got a new trailer and it features lots of graphics I did with Territory.
11. Who are some other WNW members whose work you admire, and why?
Ernesto Porto: I had the pleasure to work with him at the studio when he was freelancing for us and how he manages after effects just amazes me. Great motion graphics artist and even better person.
12. Anything else you'd like to add that we haven't asked?
I wish I could talk about the projects I'm working on right now, but then I would have to change my status to "Not working". Lots of confidentiality contracts and non-disclosure agreements unfortunately...
Are you a WNW Member with new work, exhibits, products, or news to share? Email us.
MEET #5037 CHRIS CARBONI
MEET #5037 CHRIS CARBONI
Director • New York, NY
WNW Member #5037 Chris Carboni has directed work for a wide range of clients including Adult Swim, Coca Cola, Showtime, and many more. He's an elite animator whose vibrant style combines the colors and contrasts of pop art and graphic novels, while infusing his own indelible flair. We asked Chris if his parents understand what he does for a living: "Nowadays, yes they really do. In the past, though, 'working on an Apple commercial' would translate into 'inventing the next iPhone.'" Chris also delivers some tweetable advice to fellow creatives: "Work hard, be nice."
1. How long have you been freelancing?
I've been freelance for six years.
2. Is there a time or place that you feel most creative/have the best ideas?
I think any place has potential to inspire. For me, a change in environment often sparks a change in perspective - sometimes it simply has to do with the physical act of moving. I tend to get my best ideas when I'm away from my computer, out in the world, focusing on something non-digital.
3. What's your ideal Working:Not Working ratio?
I think this depends on the kind of work I'm doing, but on average I try to keep things 70/30.
4. Do your parents understand what you do?
Nowadays, yes they really do. In the past, though, "working on an Apple commercial" would translate into "inventing the next iPhone."
5. What scene from a movie makes you laugh just thinking about it?
6. If you were stranded on a desert island, with your computer, what 3 websites would you take with you?
I guess NY Times, G-Mail, and Netflix. Web MD would be helpful, but survival is less appealing if I can't watch the new season of House of Cards.
7. What do you do when Not Working?
I chill. And I travel. And I eat food, lots of it.
8. Do you have a hidden talent?
I can rap.. kinda.. When I was a kid my friends and I would freestyle all the time. It's been a while, but I like to think I could still hold my own in a cypher. Hopefully this is never tested...
9. Any tips or advice for fellow freelancers?
Work hard, be nice.
10. What's your favorite thing on the internet this week?
I came across a new Boston Dynamics robot video which is pretty sweet. I love the ones of quadrupeds that walk over precarious terrain while their human overlords kick them in the back. When Judgement Day is upon us, we will only have ourselves to blame..
11. Who are some other WNW members whose work you admire, and why?
So many, hard to whittle it down! Today I've been admiring the work of Alex Trochut and Julia Pott.
More of Chris's Work
Man Seeking Woman - FXX
Circular
Animation for a Cause
Persol
Sprout
Remaark
Are you a WNW Member with new work, exhibits, products, or news to share? Email us.
MEET #1397 ANTHONY LANE
MEET #1397 ANTHONY LANE
Designer • Minneapolis, MN
WNW Member #1397 Anthony Lane specializes in logo and brand design. He cites Brandon Oxendine, Nick Brue, and Matt Chase as fellow designers and WNW members whom he admires. Anthony's appreciation extends to the craft: "Be grateful for what you do—we as designers have the privilege of making design and solving problems for other people who rely on us. This shouldn't be work, if it feels like work find a way to get over it or do something else. Remember, you could always be pushing paper somewhere."
1. How long have you been freelancing?
I started freelancing December of 2009, so 5 years. I've been working full-time as well over that period of time, but spend a lot of time freelancing outside of full-time work.
2. Is there a time or place that you feel most creative/have the best ideas?
Right after I look at great work from my favorite designers/studios or see something I really like. It could be an old piece of design (or anything really), that seems to trigger the desire to be creative. Driving in the car or doing something completely opposite of being in the studio also seem to be places where ideas come.
3. What's your ideal Working:Not Working ratio?
Now that I have a couple of children and a family, something like 80/20 feels close to ideal. Before that I felt like I wasn't being productive if I didn't always have something on my plate, I still feel that way, but have learned a whole lot about appreciating time away from design and that in turn, has helped me be a better designer and person.
4. Do your parents understand what you do?
They do, but I don't think they grasp the ins and outs of being a designer; I think they still think I just make logos.
5. What scene from a movie makes you laugh just thinking about it?
Buzz Lightyear tea drinking scene in Toy Story 1. Having a small child in the house, I've probably seen the movie a dozen times in the last month so it's immediately memorable. I'm just now appreciating the adult humor in that movie.
6. If you were stranded on a desert island, with your computer, what 3 websites would you take with you?
1. Wikipedia
2. Google
3. The Atlantic
7. What do you do when Not Working?
Depends on the season. I spend a lot of time indoors doing fun stuff with my two boys and wife in the Winter and in the Summer I mix that with being outside as much as possible riding/fixing my motorcycle and doing housework.
8. Do you have a hidden talent?
Does juggling count?
9. Any tips or advice for fellow freelancers?
Try to have fun with what you're doing and don't try to perfect everything—a lot of great things are found in the imperfections. Establish practices upfront that help with the management side of things to give you more time to spend on being creative. Be a master of setting expectations and asking questions. And remember why you were hired.
10. What's your favorite thing on the internet this week?
Spending lots of time going through high-res satellite images of our Earth from the European Space Agency. What an amazing world we live in.
11. Who are some other WNW members whose work you admire, and why?
Brandon Oxendine has a very neat approach, smart, weird, and always a little off—in a good way.
Nick Brue because he's a good Minnesotan and a really really talented designer.
Matt Chase has an incredible sense of wit and his range of execution in his illustrations are incredible, seems like a nice guy too.
12. Anything else you'd like to add that we haven't asked?
It's been said many times before, but be grateful for what you do—we as designers have the privilege of making design and solving problems for other people who rely on us. This shouldn't be work, if it feels like work find a way to get over it or do something else. Remember, you could always be pushing paper somewhere.
More of Anthony's Work
Are you a WNW Member with new work, exhibits, products, or news to share? Email us.
MEET #4148 JORDAN FRIPP
MEET #4148 JORDAN FRIPP
Art Director • Atlanta, GA
If we were stuck on a desert island, we'd want WNW Member #4148 Jordan Fripp with us. Having spent half a year backpacking around the world, Jordan collected outdoorsman skills along the way as well as some serious wanderlust. When he's not building fires, Jordan's providing art direction, design, and motion for such clients as Nike, Puma, Beats by Dre, and Land Rover.
He also has advice for fellow creatives, "Enjoy the ride. Most people know this industry is a proverbial roller coaster. Sometimes you are busting your ass and other times it is smooth sailing. Figure out how to manage either situation and you will be golden. Also, respect yourself and your work. "
1. How long have you been freelancing?
I've been freelancing In some capacity for the past 10 years. I've had a few short full-time jobs in that span as well, but I always come back to freelancing. It suits my lifestyle and gives me the freedom I enjoy.
2. Is there a time or place that you feel most creative/have the best ideas?
I like taking long walks, especially in the woods, to help clear my mind. A lot of the time just stepping away from things is a great way to let new thoughts in.
3. What's your ideal Working:Not Working ratio?
There is no mathematical formula that applies to everyone, it's definitely more of an individual thing. For me even when I'm not actually in my studio working, I'm thinking about future projects I want to do. As a creative, working is important to not only pay the bills but to satisfy that creative part of our lives that urges the soul to make something. At the same time if we are always working and not learning or exploring the world around us, we can become closed off and unable to grow as creators and people.
4. Do your parents understand what you do?
For the most part. My dad is not the most technically savvy guy but my mom dabbles in a lot of creative, always trying new things even though she doesn't have any technical training. I can say I definitely get my work ethic from them. They are some of the hardest working people I know and I'm thankful to have gotten that from them.
5. What scene from a movie makes you laugh just thinking about it?
Anything from "Screwed". A low budget comedy with Dave Chappelle, Danny DeVito and Norm McDonald. Not any specific scenes, just all the goofy craziness they get into and their over-the-top character performances. Anything from that or Half-Baked. Chappelle was always my favorite well before he had his show on Comedy Central.
6. If you were stranded on a desert island, with your computer, what 3 websites would you take with you?
Ha, well if I were on a desert island, internet probably wouldn't work, but after allowing myself ample time to explore and relax? I would say Spotify for music, Hypebeast for inspiration and Wikipedia to teach myself to make some shit to get the hell off the island! ...Or maybe I would just stay.
7. What do you do when Not Working?
My wife and I love to travel and explore. We took half a year to backpack around the world and ever since then we try and create little expeditions whenever we can. Hiking intense mountains or lying on a beach, trying new food and just living as close to local as possible, wherever that may be. Life is short, you have to live it to the fullest.
8. Do you have a hidden talent?
I guess I'm a bit of an outdoorsman, so stuff like building fires, shooting and navigating are all hidden talents I suppose.
9. Any tips or advice for fellow freelancers?
Enjoy the ride. Most people know this industry is a proverbial roller coaster. Sometimes you are busting your ass and other times it is smooth sailing. Figure out how to manage either situation and you will be golden. Also, respect yourself and your work. We provide a unique, valuable, high end service and sometimes people try to take advantage of that, misunderstanding or not appreciating the good we can contribute.
10. What's your favorite thing on the internet this week?
I create hype graphics for the NBA on the side, and am a basketball fan. This past weekend was the All-Star weekend with lots going on, in NYC no less. There is a lot of culture and art being shared in the form of fashion, sneakers and performance in the sport. So I have had my eye on a lot of that.
11. Anything else you'd like to add that we haven't asked?
I have been doing a lot of traveling for work lately and have done remote work for years. I love that the internet and technology today allows people to connect and work from anywhere, which has helped create a better work / life balance. This is something that all companies and clients should embrace as it leads to happier employees, more creative work and just all around positiveness.
Jordan's Work
Jordan's Workspace
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MEET #5262 EVE WEINBERG
MEET #5262 EVE WEINBERG
Director • Brooklyn, NY
WNW Member #5262 Eve Weinberg partners with ad agencies, interactive firms, media companies, and filmmakers to direct the motion graphics components for large projects. Such partners have included CNN, BAM, Participant Media, and Potion. In the interview below, Eve offers some honest advice to fellow freelancers: "Communicate well if you’re having trouble delivering on a deadline or asset. Clients are people too. Communication is key."
WARNING: This video has been identified by Epilepsy Action to potentially trigger seizures for people with photosensitive epilepsy. Viewer discretion is advised.
1. How long have you been freelancing?
On and off since 2007. So, roughly 6 years, non-sequentially.
2. Is there a time or place that you feel most creative/have the best ideas?
Late at night, first thing in the morning, or after a nap. Basically, right after I’ve slept, or right before I’m supposed to sleep.
3. What’s your ideal Working:Not Working ratio?
What’s ‘not working’? Drinks with friends where we talk about project ideas? Crafternoons or drink-and-draw nights? Weekend hackathons? It’s tough to know the difference between working and not working. I’m a fan of the 80/20 principal though.
4. Do your parents understand what you do?
Absolutely not. Major bummer. I just give them the snippets that they can post to facebook every once in a while.
5. What scene from a movie makes you laugh just thinking about it?
Elf - all of it.
Or the David Cross line in Waiting for Guffman - "Once you go into that circle, the weather never changes. It is always 67 degrees with a 40% chance of rain."
6. If you were stranded on a desert island, with your computer, what 3 websites would you take with you?
chat roulette, http://codepen.io/kowlor/full/MYOKRd/, netflix
7. What do you do when Not Working?
nap. bike. hike. soccer. draw. collage. watch movies.
8. Do you have a hidden talent?
I dont know if this makes me more, or less, employable, but I hold a world record. hehe
9. Any tips or advice for fellow freelancers?
Communicate well if you’re having trouble delivering on a deadline or asset. Clients are people too. Communication is key.
10. What’s your favorite thing on the internet this week?
11. Who are some other WNW members whose work you admire, and why?
These are a few that I noticed on the list whom I’ve worked with and are extremely talented and driven: Daniel Savage, Sean McClintock, Erica Gorochow, Michelle Higa Fox
More Work From Eve
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MEET #1348 DAN BLACKMAN
MEET #1348 DAN BLACKMAN
Designer • Brooklyn, NY
WNW Member #1348 Dan Blackman is an award-winning graphic designer and director, currently working full-time at Tictail in Brooklyn. The ADC Young Gun has also created stunning work with such companies as VSA Partners, FWIS, Sapient, Sagmeister & Walsh, and Mother New York. Dan spoke to WNW about the benefits of both freelancing and full-time.
1. How long have you been full-time? How do you weigh the benefits of freelancing and full-timing?
I've been full-time on and off my entire career but this latest stint about a year and a half. Between Tumblr and now Tictail. Which for me is weird since I never imagined working in the tech industry. But here I am, learning more than ever.
Both full-time and freelance have their ups and downs. Throughout my career I've been between the two and and have found satisfaction in both. When freelancing I have had the freedom to take on what I want, when I want. Which wasn't always the case. I used to spend most of my freelance time jumping from agency to agency working on branding projects.
When working full-time (especially in-house) I've found that it's really rewarding to concentrate on one brand and a bigger long-term goal. With freelance it was typically project to project without a lot of time to spend on one thing.
2. Is there a time or place that you feel most creative/have the best ideas?
I find being alone for a couple hours in the morning before all the meetings start tends to be my most productive. Typically between 7am and 10am
3. What's your ideal Working:Not Working ratio?
Working 90% of the time, all the time.
4. Do your parents understand what you do?
They try their hardest. Luckily "Graphic designer" is usually enough for them.
5. What scene from a movie makes you laugh just thinking about it?
Shit that's a tough question. The "Jobin" quote in I Love You Man used to get me.
6. If you were stranded on a desert island, with your computer, what 3 websites would you take with you?
New York Times, Tumblr and Vice.
7. What do you do when Not Working?
Drinking, socializing, traveling, and hanging out with my lovely girlfriend.
8. Do you have a hidden talent?
I really enjoy photography in my off time. A talent that I hope one day to make more use of.
9. Do you have any tips for freelancers and fellow full-timers?
Get as much experience as you can. If you aren't happy, change it.
10. What's your favorite thing on the internet this week?
The last couple episodes of Radiolab were pretty amazing. Boston Big Picture is always fun to explore and Tim Goodman and Jessica Walsh's book release antics have been fun to follow.
11. Who are some other WNW members whose work you admire, and why?
That's such an unfair question haha. I really believe that everyone on WNW is insanely talented, that's what makes WNW what it is.
If I had to name a few though they would be Skip Hursh who I was lucky enough to hire when I was at Tumblr. The guy is super-conceptual and seems to be capable of doing anything. Another guy that I really respect is Derrick Lee who I worked with at Mother NY and is now at Nike in Portland. Last would probably be Brent Couchman who in the last year opened up his own shop in SF, the guy's a monster. Oh and Mike Burton, because the dude is Mikey Burton.
More of Dan's Work
Are you a WNW Member with new work, exhibits, products, or news to share? Email us.
MEET #1517 DAN CASSARO
MEET #1517 DAN CASSARO
Designer • Brooklyn, New York
WNW Member #1517 Dan Cassaro considers himself "a native New Yorker and a frequent Get-The-Hell-Out-of-New-York-Er." But you may already know him as the superhero designer, protecting the freedom of freelancers.
Dan was named an ADC Young Gun in 2011, and has worked for clients that include Beck, Nike, The New York Times, Victoria's Secret, VH1, MTV, McSweeney's, HarperCollins and Carhartt. Dan's work has received accolades from the likes of The New Yorker, Fast Company, The New York Times Magazine, Rolling Stone, The Wall Street Journal, and Esquire.
Below, Dan speaks with WNW and offers some great advice to fellow freelancers: "Don't be afraid to ask questions! Everyone feels like they need to pretend that they know exactly what the are doing when they start out. We're all just dummies trying to look cool, smart, whatever. It usually causes more problems in the long run."
1. How long have you been freelancing?
About 6 years.
2. Is there a time or place that you feel most creative/have the best ideas?
In the car, alone, listening to the radio. Music seems to activate whatever part of my brain it is that gives me ideas.
3. What's your ideal Working:Not Working ratio?
That's the million dollar question, right? If I ever figure it out I will let everyone know.
4. Do your parents understand what you do?
Yep. They totally get it. I think people more or less understand what design and illustration is, even if they don't understand the specifics of what goes into it.
5. What scene from a movie makes you laugh just thinking about it?
The scene in the Naked Gun when Frank is climbing on the side of the building and he grabs the stone penis. I'm laughing about it right now as I type it out.
6. If you were stranded on a desert island, with your computer, what 3 websites would you take with you?
NONE. The internet would remind me of my old life. I would want to focus on my new life as a warthog hunter/pineapple farmer.
7. What do you do when Not Working?
Lots of road trips with Niamh and the dog.
8. Do you have a hidden talent?
I am REALLY good at making breakfast. I used to work as a cook in a diner so I have mastered the art of bacon and eggs.
9. Any tips or advice for fellow freelancers?
Don't be afraid to ask questions! Everyone feels like they need to pretend that they know exactly what the are doing when they start out. We're all just dummies trying to look cool, smart, whatever. It usually causes more problems in the long run.
10. What's your favorite thing on the internet this week?
This.
11. Who are some other WNW members whose work you admire, and why?
I love them WNW beautiful babies equally.
More of Dan's Work
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MEET #2825 LIZ MARKS
MEET #2825 LIZ MARKS
Copywriter • Miami, FL & Los Angeles, CA
We often imagine a writer hunched over a desk in a stuffy room battling insomnia. This is not how WNW Member #2825 Liz Marks operates. The Miami-based copywriter told us that she comes up with the best ideas "first thing in the AM. On my couch. I never sit at a desk. Ever." Liz's approach works just fine, as she has created fresh ideas for top clients like Apple, Google, Samsung, Coke, Citibank, vitaminwater, and Netflix. Liz also offers some straightforward advice to fellow freelancers, free of charge: "Be nice and fun to be around. It goes a long way."
1. How long have you been freelancing?
This will be my second year.
2. Is there a time or place that you feel most creative/have the best ideas?
First thing in the AM. On my couch. I never sit at a desk. Ever.
3. What's your ideal Working:Not Working ratio?
Ideal: 70/30. Actual: 90/10. I really need to work on the “not working” part.
4. Do your parents understand what you do?
Yup! I’m lucky. Momma ain’t no fool.
5. What scene from a movie makes you laugh just thinking about it?
The “you’re going the wrong way” scene from Planes, Trains, and Automobiles.
6. If you were stranded on a desert island, with your computer, what 3 websites would you take with you?
YouTube – So I can watch videos on how to survive on a desert island.
Liz-marks.com – So I can work remotely and stay relevant for when/if I decide to return from the desert island.
Google – It’s kind of like asking a genie for more wishes…
7. What do you do when Not Working?
Sweat. I’m always up for a good physical challenge.
8. Do you have a hidden talent?
I’m a writer by trade but I have an uncanny ability to draw Pokemon. I also have a freakishly high vertical jump.
9. Any tips or advice for fellow freelancers?
Be nice and fun to be around. It goes a long way.
10. What's your favorite thing on the internet this week?
11. Who are some other WNW members whose work you admire, and why?
I like to work and laugh with people who like to work and laugh. Oh, and who are awesome at what they do: Daniel Savage, Antonin Brault Guilleaume, Ryan Gury.
More of Liz's Work
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MEET #2356 MELISSA FAUSTINE CHANG
MEET #2356 MELISSA
FAUSTINE CHANG
Designer • Los Angeles, CA
WNW Member #2356 Melissa Faustine Chang is a designer who specializes in branding, publishing, typography, and print. She's worked with publishing titans like W. W. Norton, Penguin Random House, and Simon & Schuster. Her work has been recognized by the Type Director's Club and Print Magazine. Melissa offers some great advice to her fellow freelancers: "Routine is key in staying focused and disciplined. Something as small as having a set place to go every day, like a studio or co-working space, helps build a bit of structure in what can otherwise be a rather unstructured lifestyle."
1. How long have you been freelancing?
A little over two years now.
2. Is there a time or place that you feel most creative/have the best ideas?
I have the best ideas right before I fall asleep—it's when my mind is most unfettered. I keep a notebook by my bed to scribble down ideas and decipher the gibberish (genius) the next morning.
3. What's your ideal Working:Not Working ratio?
About 60/40. Making sure I dedicate a good chunk of time to Not Working keeps me refreshed and much more effective when I’m Working.
4. Do your parents understand what you do?
Somewhat! They have a general idea that it has something to do with pictures and computers.
5. What scene from a movie makes you laugh just thinking about it?
The Black Knight scene in Monty Python. “Tis but a flesh wound!” Classic.
6. If you were stranded on a desert island, with your computer, what 3 websites would you take with you?
1. Google Maps for turn-by-turn navigation around the palm trees
2. Yelp to see where to find the tastiest 5-star coconuts
3. YouTube for videos on how-to best open and cook the coconuts
7. What do you do when Not Working?
I swim, hike (two things that are so wonderfully accessible since relocating from NY to LA), and travel as often as possible.
My favorite thing about freelancing is that if work is ever slow, I have the freedom to hop on a plane to wherever the cheapest ticket takes me.
8. Do you have a hidden talent?
Not taking things or myself too seriously.
9. Any tips or advice for fellow freelancers?
Routine is key in staying focused and disciplined. Something as small as having a set place to go every day, like a studio or co-working space, helps build a bit of structure in what can otherwise be a rather unstructured lifestyle.
10. What's your favorite thing on the internet this week?
They speed up Seinfeld episodes on TBS to fit more episodes in—so diabolical!
More of Melissa's Work
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Photo by WNW Member #3894 Don Shelford
MEET #2902 SHEENA BRADY
MEET #2902 SHEENA BRADY
Copywriter • Brooklyn, NY
In the Fall of 2014, we featured a series of GAP ads directed by David Fincher, and written by WNW Member #2902 Sheena Brady. We're big fans of Sheena's work for clients like GAP, Coca-Cola, Nike, Levi's, Converse, and Carhartt, so we figured we should feature the copywriter herself. Sheena was most recently a Creative Director at Anomaly. Before that, she was a Writer/Creative Director at W+K Portland for 7 years. Now she's a full-time freelancer. We asked the hilarious Sheena Brady if her parents understand what she does for a living: "They think I’m in med school. I do it for the care packages." We also asked Sheena if she has any tips for fellow freelancers: "HR people are no joke. Don’t procrastinate on the paperwork. They will find you."
1. How long have you been freelancing?
A year and a half.
2. Is there a time or place that you feel most creative/have the best ideas?
There’s only one thing in my portfolio that I came up with while sitting in an actual office. So, anywhere but an office.
3. What's your ideal Working:Not Working ratio?
I haven’t quite figured that out yet. I’m still new to this.
4. Do your parents understand what you do?
They think I’m in med school. I do it for the care packages.
5. What scene from a movie makes you laugh just thinking about it?
Fred Williard’s play-by-play in Best in Show.
6. If you were stranded on a desert island, with your computer, what 3 websites would you take with you?
doomandbloom.net
armageddononline.org
graywolfsurvival.com
7. What do you do when Not Working?
I have lots of half-finished short film and show ideas. I need a personal project manager.
8. Do you have a hidden talent?
A gypsy once told me I had psychic powers. I haven’t been able to harness my clairvoyance but when I do it will be a huge advantage in the freelance game.
9. Any tips or advice for fellow freelancers?
HR people are no joke. Don’t procrastinate on the paperwork. They will find you.
10. What’s your favorite thing on the internet this week?
My hometown news website is always amusing. I once read a local police report where a man was caught naked (and greased) in the school air duct system with stolen paper clips and a stapler.
http://www.newsminer.com/
Sheena's Work
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MEET #3988 RICHARD HART
MEET #3988 RICHARD HART
Designer • New York, New York
WNW Member #3988 Richard Hart has spent over 17 years as principal (and cofounder with his sister) of disturbance, a design firm in Durban, South Africa. He's an award-winning designer who has also published books, released CDs, opened a restaurant, a design store, and a gallery. In August 2013, he moved to New York City with his wife and two daughters.
WNW Member & South-African native Jordan Metcalf cited Richard as a fellow WNW member whose work he looks up to, "There are so many great people on WNW that it’s hard to narrow down a list, but I’d probably say New York based, South African export Richard Hart stands out for me as someone whose work and career I admire. He’s been in the industry for ages, helped start up and run one of South Africa’s top creative studios, built up this incredible portfolio of exciting and diverse commercial and collaborative work, and has successfully managed to merge his painting skills, production know-how and graphic designer's eye into an experimental, beautiful and unique fine art focus in the last few years. I’d be happy to retire with a bio like his, and the guy’s not even close to being done yet."
We couldn't have said it better.
1. How long have you been freelancing?
Only about a year, which is almost as long as I’ve been in New York. Before that I lived in South Africa where I ran a studio for nearly 17 years… so it’s a bit odd being the freelancer and not the one searching for freelancers.
2. Is there a time or place that you feel most creative/have the best ideas?
Usually it’s between 1am and 4am when I’m desperately trying to switch off and get some sleep but my mind is just going crazy. Sometimes I wake up the next morning and realise that the ideas were developed in a state of exhausted delirium and are totally shit, but just as often I come up with gold. I’ve learned that there’s value in these periods of insomnia and mostly I just relax and go with it and deal with the fact that the next day I’m a zombie.
3. What's your ideal Working:Not Working ratio?
I work as a visual artist when I’m not freelancing, so really I’m always working. And that’s the way I like it. In terms of the split between freelance and art-making, 50/50 seems to be comfortable. I’m learning to come to terms with the fact that I don’t really have a lot of control over what the ratio turns out to be week to week… at first it was a bit stressful.
4. Do your parents understand what you do?
Haha, ummmmm definitely not. In fact I can usually measure the success of a project by how much head-shaking and eye-rolling it inspires in my mom. That said, she has always been unconditionally supportive, which I think is pretty much the definition of a good parent, right?
5. What scene from a movie makes you laugh just thinking about it?
Probably Jack Black drop-kicking Ron Burgundy’s dog off a bridge in Anchorman. Actually just the sight of Jack Black pretty much cracks me up.
6. If you were stranded on a desert island, with your computer, what 3 websites would you take with you?
1. coconutresearchcenter.org (Your source for accurate information on the health and nutritional aspects of coconut, coconut oil, palm, palm oil, and related subjects.)
2. survivenature.com (Learn the methods to survive and stay alive on a deserted island.)
3. pornhub.com… I mean, who knows how long I’ll be out there! (NSFW)
7. What do you do when Not Working?
I’m either at my studio making art or at home making amends with my wife for spending too much time making art.
8. Do you have a hidden talent?
No, I’m pretty sure any talents I have are out in the open and exploited to the fullest of my talent exploiting ability. Maybe talent exploitation is my hidden talent?
9. Any tips or advice for fellow freelancers?
It’s pretty obvious but I always try to view myself as being there to make someone’s life easier (usually a creative director). Skill and talent are a given, but if you use initiative, anticipate needs and get shit done before you’ve even been asked, it makes you so much more valuable. I know this from having been the hirer of freelancers for many years… the ones that were low maintenance and high output always got the call.
10. What's your favorite thing on the internet this week?
11. Who are some other WNW members whose work you admire, and why?
Morgan Brill because her work is really fresh and Jordan Metcalf because he’s my countryman, homie and is just lethal with a bezier curve.
Richard's Work
Richard's Studio
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MEET #4347 JULIANNA BRION
MEET #4347 JULIANNA BRION
Illustrator • Baltimore, MD
WNW Member #4347 Julianna Brion studied illustration at MICA and now spends her days hard at work freelancing. Some of Julianna's clients include NPR, The New York Times, The New Yorker, and The San Francisco Chronicle. Her work has been acknowledged by American Illustration, The Society of Illustrators, 3x3, CMYK, and SCBWI. Julianna offers some sound medical advice to her fellow freelancers: "Nothing, no client, no job, is more important than a good night's sleep. Seriously." Julianna also explains her admiration for WNW Member Jen Mussari: "Jen has a drawing of mine tattooed on her body which is just one other thing in the long list of things I like about her."
1. How long have you been freelancing?
Almost three years.
2. Is there a time or place that you feel most creative/have the best ideas?
Baltimore inspires me a lot, but I try to take trips periodically to refresh myself mentally and creatively. I've made it a priority to take at least one trip a year since I started my illustration career, away from the studio and away from the internet. My best ideas almost always occur in the times I find myself away from my computer.
3. What's your ideal Working:Not Working ratio?
50/50. Having freedom to play in my personal work always helps me avoid getting burnt out on the practical stuff. When I have some down time I can flip from illustrator to painter and always have something new to work on.
4. Do your parents understand what you do?
Probably better than I do. My father is an illustrator and sculptor and my mother works in advertising. I come from a whole family of illustrators and designers. My grandmother, Anne Rockwell has written over 200 children's books! I'd love an opportunity to work with her on a book someday.
5. What scene from a movie makes you laugh just thinking about it?
The lobster scene from Annie Hall.
6. If you were stranded on a desert island, with your computer, what 3 websites would you take with you?
Honestly, all I'd need is my favorite YouTube channel dedicated to cats balancing tangerines on their heads and I'd be set for life.
7. What do you do when Not Working?
I paint, I sketchbook, I quilt. I like keeping my hands busy. I think I've been reading Infinite Jest every day the past month but I don't seem to be getting any further in it.
8. Do you have a hidden talent?
I'm really good at voices. I made extra money in middle and high school with voiceover work.
9. Any tips or advice for fellow freelancers?
Nothing, no client, no job, is more important than a good night's sleep. Seriously.
10. What's your favorite thing on the internet this week?
I've wasted a bunch of time this week with this app, Barkbuddy, which is basically Tinder for rescue dogs. I already live with three cats so I don't think they'll be happy to hear about this.
11. Who are some other WNW members whose work you admire, and why?
Jen Mussari and Michael Hoeweler, my fellow MICA alums. Both make exquisite, sophisticated work. I really admire their professionalism and kind spirits. Jen has a drawing of mine tattooed on her body which is just one other thing in the long list of things I like about her.
Julianna's Sketchbook Spreads
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Photo by Nicholas Peter Wilson
MEET #2257 KATE BINGAMAN-BURT
MEET #2257 KATE BINGAMAN-BURT
Illustrator • Portland, Oregon
WNW Member #2257 Kate Bingaman-Burt has lots of zingers. Her observational illustrations may have a whimsical style but they belie a strong social commentary. A quick look through her portfolio yields sex facts, how to get creative and...her credit card statements. All draw attention to causes that educate and empower.
Given that Kate is both a full-time professor and full-time freelancer, we wanted to know how she manages her time. Kate tells us that she tries to compartmentalize and divide the week into school mode with weekends for freelance brain. She also reminds us of the great Mike Tyson quote, "Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face."
1. How long have you been freelancing?
People have been paying me to do stuff for them since 1999, but I feel like things ramped up into FOR REAL territory around 8 or 9 years ago.
2. Is there a time or place that you feel most creative/have the best ideas?
Fantasy answer: In the mornings! I love getting up at 5 am and starting the day off right by exercising, walking the dog, spending quality time with my husband, eating a healthy breakfast and then getting to my studio around 7 am to start attacking the day. Also, I don't check my email until at least noon so I can have some uninterrupted productivity ME time.
Real answer: Who knows anymore? I used to think I was a night person. and then I used to think I was a morning person. Now, I just feel like a person who likes to sleep, but doesn't that much. Sometimes I get up in the middle of the night to work and sometimes I get up super early in the morning or I stay up really late. Some of my best ideas come when I am just terribly frustrated and on the verge of tears and really just need to get shit done and then BOOM. WORKING AWAY. Trust me, this process isn't ideal. I don't really regulate my freelance schedule until my school year is over with. Summer time is when I can actually start creating a routine for my workdays, which is great. During the school year, I compartmentalize a lot and try to reserve Tuesday-Thursday brain time for school and Friday-Monday brain time for freelance. That's the plan, but as the great philosopher Mike Tyson once said "Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face."
3. What's your ideal Working:Not Working ratio?
I always like to be working, but I hear that this might not always be a good thing. I try to reserve my Sundays to be my Fundays. If I can keep my Sunday free to hang out with friends or to work on just my own projects, then I consider that week a success.
4. Do your parents understand what you do?
Completely. When I was growing up they were self-employed weavers so they understand the weirdo work schedule.
5. What scene from a movie makes you laugh just thinking about it?
I have two: The scene from Dumb and Dumber where Lloyd says "We've got no FOOD, JOBS...our PETS HEADS ARE FALLIN OFF!"
And I can just sit down and play The Jerk in my head and crack myself up. Especially anything to do with Pizza in a Cup or when Navin gets his name in the telephone book. SWEET JESUS.
6. If you were stranded on a desert island, with your computer, what 3 websites would you take with you?
Instagram because I am sick, Netflix because I am sick and Wikipedia because I am sick. Really, for sanity reasons, I should be STOKED to have zero internet on the desert island. I am about two seconds from going off the grid entirely and just heading out the woods to raise goats and live in a freaking yurt. I swear I am not an angry person, the internet just makes me angry sometimes.
7. What do you do when Not Working?
Besides having fantasies of living in a world with no screens? Umm...I spent the last week trying to figure out Snapchat. Verdict: Still confused. Also, I look at my dog a lot and feel guilty that I don't walk her more.
8. Do you have a hidden talent?
I play the flute and have since I was 11.
9. Any tips or advice for fellow freelancers?
These things take time. I get a lot of questions from people that usually focus around the question of "well, how did you get that client?" It's not an overnight thing for most of us. It's a constant flow of work over a long period of time. It's the steady build up of quality relationships and consistently delivering super work and not being a douchebag to interact with that keeps the work flowing. It's about being a bit crazed and working really hard and repeat. repeat. repeat.
10. What's your favorite thing on the internet this week?
The Fall on Netflix. GILLIAN ANDERSON IS A STONE COLD BABE FOX. Also, Dolly Parton animated gifs, reading all of the excerpts that I can get my hands on from the new Kim Gordon autobiography (Thurston Moore throws a stapler because he is upset that his zine isn't coming together. OMG) and the Anne Friedman Weekly Newsletter. ALWAYS.
Kate's Work
Kate's Workspace
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MEET #4904 JUSTIN POULTER
MEET #4904 JUSTIN POULTER
Designer • Cape Town, South Africa
WNW Member #4904 Justin Poulter is a freelance graphic designer whose forte is hand lettering and illustration. Originally from South Africa, he spent some time in England operating out of award-winning studio ilovedust. He's worked with clients that include Nike, Vans, Carhartt, Reebok, and Coca Cola. Justin currently designs out of his home studio based in Cape Town, South Africa, and continues to put out incredible work at a steady rate. "I think showing new work as often as possible is key, but keeping a consistent quality is also key. It seems like a lot of guys that do well nowadays are really good at social media and frequently release new work."
1. How long have you been freelancing?
I've been freelancing now for about 6 months. I did it before for almost two years and continued doing jobs on the side while having permanent positions in studios over the past few years.
Before freelancing, I worked at ilovedust for three years; I was head of illustration at Am I Collective for a year, and I also did a brief stint at Studio Muti.
2. Is there a time or place that you feel most creative/have the best ideas?
I've found experiencing a new place is when the most inspiration flows, but often you can be pleasantly surprised in your own neighbourhood.
3. What's your ideal Working:Not Working ratio?
Work four solid days a week and have the rest off to explore.
4. Do your parents understand what you do?
I'm lucky, my parents both have had creative carriers. My mom's a fashion design, and my dad's an art director and graphic designer in publishing.
5. What scene from a movie makes you laugh just thinking about it?
Most of the scenes from Snatch make me crease up, especially the ones with “Tyrone” and “Vinny”
Tyrone: I didn't see it there.
Vinny: It's a four ton truck, Tyrone. Its not as if it's a packet of fucking peanuts, is it?
Tyrone: It was a funny angle.
[All three turn and look back at the truck]
Vinny: It's behind you Tyrone. Whenever you reverse, things come from behind you.
6. If you were stranded on a desert island, with your computer, what 3 websites would you take with you?
Gmail to keep in touch, tumblr to keep my blog updated (ha!) and probably FFFFound to keep me inspired.
7. What do you do when Not Working?
Skateboarding, photography and travel (when possible.)
8. Do you have a hidden talent?
Its hard to say really, I’ve been getting some recognition for my photos a bit lately. Maybe one to mention would be networking.
9. Any tips or advice for fellow freelancers?
I think showing new work as often as possible is key, but keeping a consistent quality is also key. It seems like a lot of guys that do well nowadays are really good at social media and frequently release new work.
10. What's your favorite thing on the internet this week?
Two of my friends Travys Owen and Dylan Wrankmore recently did a music video for a local band called Fantasma. I'd have to say that their video for Fantasma's track “Eye of the Sun” is one of my favourite things up on the internet at the moment.
11. Who are some other WNW creatives whose work you admire?
I really like Janne Livonen’s illustration work. Also loving the skateboard graphics Mike Perry has done!
Justin's Work
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MEET #4977 CHARLIE CLARK
MEET #4977 CHARLIE CLARK
Front-End Developer • New York, NY
WNW Member #4977 Charlie Clark graduated from Parsons in 2012, and has since been working as a developer, building a number of award-winning sites. He's currently a full-timer at B-Reel. Charlie offers some advice to his fellow creatives: "Whenever you have an idea, write it down. Then, whenever you have some spare tame, look at your list, pick an idea and start working on it, and then keep pushing it until you have something that you’re happy with. And don’t keep your work to yourself! Share it all over the place, you never know what people are going to like."
The Colors of Motion
1. How long have you been full-time? How do you weigh the benefits of freelancing and full-timing?
I’ve been full-time for almost 3 years, since I graduated from school. Aside from small projects I don’t have much experience freelancing. But as far as I can tell there are advantages and disadvantages to both. As a freelancer, you have more flexibility to move around, and - if you’re good enough - to cherry pick your projects. As a full-timer however, I think you’re more likely to work on the more fun and experimental projects, which is often where you learn new skills.
2. Is there a time or place that you feel most creative/have the best ideas?
I really like working in coffee shops. That’s usually where I like to be when I’m working on a personal project. Some people find the noise distracting, but for me it’s almost the opposite. There’s this place around the corner from my apartment that has great wifi and where a lot of people go to work and the energy is contagious.
3. What's your ideal Working:Not Working ratio?
I’d love to have more time to work on my personal projects. I think if I could one day strike a 50:50 ratio of Working:Not Working I’d be really happy.
4. Do your parents understand what you do?
Hah. They know that I do something with computers and the internet, but as soon as I mention writing code their eyes glaze over.
5. What scene from a movie makes you laugh just thinking about it?
In Hannah and Her Sisters, Wood Allen’s character is a huge hypochondriac. He convinces himself that he’s got a brain tumor or something. When he goes to the doctor and finds out that he’s totally fine, he’s relieved and happy for like five minutes, before his fear of death kicks in again. I’m a bit of a hypochondriac myself and I find that scene pretty hilarious.
6. If you were stranded on a desert island, with your computer, what 3 websites would you take with you?
Netflix, Wikipedia and Reddit.
7. What do you do when Not Working?
When I’m not working I like to check out new restaurants. I also like to cook. Basically I really like food. I’m also into yoga, movies, cocktails and running (preferably not in that order.)
8. Do you have a hidden talent?
I make a pretty mean guacamole.
9. Do you have any tips for freelancers and fellow full-timers?
The cool thing about being a developer is that if you have an idea, chances are you can execute it (or at least prototype it.) So my advice is this: whenever you have an idea, write it down. Then, whenever you have some spare tame, look at your list, pick an idea and start working on it, and then keep pushing it until you have something that you’re happy with. And don’t keep your work to yourself! Share it all over the place, you never know what people are going to like.
10. What's your favorite thing on the internet this week?
I thought this was pretty neat: http://www.fromanchovy.com. Type to create gradients that can be made into silk scarves.
11. Who are some other WNW members whose work you admire?
Mathias Paumgarten, Kyle Phillips, Simon Lindsay, Daniel Savage
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MEET #4356 JORDAN METCALF
MEET #4356 JORDAN METCALF
Designer • Cape Town, South Africa
WNW Member #4356 Jordan Metcalf works out of Cape Town, South Africa for clients all over the world including Nike, The New York Times Magazine, Adobe, Wired, Adidas, ESPN, and The Times (UK). Jordan is also an ADC Young Gun. Jordan offers some advice to attaining freelancer bliss: "Think about it in stages: the first stage is hustling to figure out who you are, what kind of work you love making and what you want to say. The second is figuring out how to make a sustainable living off that. You’ll end up resenting your job if you’re always living hand to mouth, and it’s too difficult to be creative and resentful at the same time. Work hard, be honest and get paid."
1. How long have you been freelancing?
Close on 6 years now.
2. Is there a time or place that you feel most creative/have the best ideas?
Probably when I’m most under pressure to be creative, or when I’m travelling. New places and people always help shift paradigms and spark new ideas but so does the panic of a looming deadline.
3. What's your ideal Working:Not Working ratio?
50/50. My ideal is to try have a life that gets me excited and inspired to make new work, but also makes me excited to leave the studio.
4. Do your parents understand what you do?
I think they have a fairly good idea, they may just be hazy on the specifics. But they’re incredibly supportive which is great. I recently went up to visit them in Uganda, and discovered a bunch of my work up on their walls all the way from embarrassing college work to stuff that I’d either given them to stuff they’ve bought at shows over the years. It was really touching to see just how much they’d collected over time and that they’re proud enough to hang it all up.
5. What scene from a movie makes you laugh just thinking about it?
I’m more of a fan of comedy series, but there are scenes in Napoleon Dynamite and Youth in Revolt that still get me every time.
6. If you were stranded on a desert island, with your computer, what 3 websites would you take with you?
Unless the sites could could get me off the island, I’d happily accept Internetlessness.
7. What do you do when Not Working?
Travel if and when I can, hang out with my wife and friends, try to get some exercise. Normal human stuff I guess.
8. Do you have a hidden talent?
I can remember the lyrics to pretty much any song released in the '90s and early 2000’s.
9. Any tips or advice for fellow freelancers?
Think about it in stages: the first stage is hustling to figure out who you are, what kind of work you love making and what you want to say. The second is figuring out how to make a sustainable living off that. You’ll end up resenting your job if you’re always living hand to mouth, and it’s too difficult to be creative and resentful at the same time. Work hard, be honest and get paid.
10. What's your favorite thing on the internet this week?
The recent Humans of New York story with the fundraiser for a middle school and everything that came after it was one of the most universally positive things to come from the Internet that I've seen in a long time. This crab eating noodles is also pretty great though.
11. Who are some other WNW members whose work you admire, and why?
There are so many great people on WNW that it’s hard to narrow down a list, but I’d probably say New York based, South African export Richard Hart stands out for me as someone whose work and career I admire. He’s been in the industry for ages, helped start up and run one of South Africa’s top creative studios, built up this incredible portfolio of exciting and diverse commercial and collaborative work, and has successfully managed to merge his painting skills, production know-how and graphic designer's eye into an experimental, beautiful and unique fine art focus in the last few years. I’d be happy to retire with a bio like his, and the guy’s not even close to being done yet.