Artist Spotlight: Blair J. Campbell
Hey gang!
Today, we're sharing an interview with Blair J. Campbell, a TeePublic OG who started TeeMAYhem, a daily design challenge in the vein of
Read on for an exclusive interview about his inspirations, his process, and his faves--and hopefully, you'll be inspired to join him next May!
(This interview has been lightly edited and condensed for clarity. )
What inspires your work?
Geek pop culture, mostly: I'm just a typical mid-thirties guy who was raised during the magical time that was the '80s through today. We live in some amazing times where being the geek I am doesn't result in ridicule but instead is celebrated.
What's your creative process when creating a new design?
I have sketchbooks littered around my house and two different sketch apps on my phone. They're all waiting for me to have some goofy idea I need to get down. If the idea still hangs with me by the time I'm behind my computer and tablet, I know I need to start in on it.
Below, a gif of his design "Short Round's," from conception, attempt 1, to final product:
How would you describe your design aesthetic/style?
I really don't have a specific aesthetic. I've always been a fan of the guerrilla/lowbrow style so I find I either dip into that or revert back to my personal,
What do you like most about being a designer?
I like the freedom of it. I can design an ultra-simplistic company logo one minute, only to spend multiple days illustrating some larger, intricate poster design. [Being a designer] is never boring and keeps [me] motivated.
How did you come into t-shirt design?
I was laid off from a boring corporate, cubicle job years ago. I decided I'd never return to that world so I delved back into my art. I bought an art tablet and spent a little over a year just doing art every day and built up my portfolio. On a whim, I designed a couple of geeky shirts. One of them took off and became a pretty big success for me at the time.
Once I was bitten by that snake, I realized no matter what else I did with my art, I'd be creating shirts on the side.
What are your favorite 2 designs of yours?
I've always been partial to my more obscure designs
The second I'd have to say is "Porkins Is My Homeboy": an homage to the true Rebellion hero that deserves more love:
Are there any current artists in the t-shirt design community that you're a fan of, or collaborate with?
One thing not lacking in the t-shirt community is camaraderie. I've been lucky enough to meet some great people. I'm currently involved with a design collective with some great folks I met through our mutual love of Disney. We call ourselves the Bain Try Collective. The members are Greg Gosline Design Co, Honorary Android, theSteele, and me.
PLUS! Other fun stuff...
What movies/shows/books/music/podca
In anticipation of Incredibles 2, I've been on a Pixar kick recently. I've been rereading all the art books and binging every film and short I own.
What three things would you bring with you to a deserted island?
My iPad, a solar charger, and a giant Swiss army knife.
What is your favorite animal and why?
My pug, Memphis, is the clear winner here. He's been my loyal companion for the past 10 years and is always sitting at my feet while I'm working on art.
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Thanks for sharing your awesome work and thoughts, Blair! If ever you have great ideas like Blair's, we wholeheartedly suggest that you MAKE IT HAPPEN! It is always so cool to see our community working together and staying motivated :)
Check out more from TeeMAYhem, Blair's shop, and find him on social media:
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