Musically Motivated

Seems like all the latest fashion trends include some sort of grunge graphics or dirty script lettering. This actually came from many of the earlier hardcore bands. You could trace it through their posters, CD artwork and especially their t-shirts. Many hardcore and punk stylings have had a great influence on the design world. Even much of the old hip-hop graphics and music are seen prevalently in today’s TV ads and fashion. Just watch the next phone or car commercial and you’ll quickly match a music style with the graphics used.

Music is a great way to showcase your artwork as well. Get in contact with your favorite local band and offer to make their posters, flyers or t-shirts. Once they become famous, teenage girls everywhere will don your artwork, eeeeh! Many new musicians are depending on unique artists to create that next great album cover. Remember the ones you grew up on? I still covet the Iron Maiden cover art. Small, unsigned bands offering a contest to design their t-shirt, is becoming a popular trend. You’ll also see a lot of web designers collaborating with the electronic musicians. Both are looking for exposure and seem to work seamlessly. Next time you go dance party or show, be sure to check out the flyers and posters. Someone had to make those, why couldn’t it be you?

Challenge yourself with something out of your element. I was recently commissioned to develop artwork for a hip-hop artist. I know very little about modern hip-hop and so it was a great challenge. Develop some artwork for a variety of music genres. Who knows, you might find that you work well with Country music.

To each is own I suppose, but doing research might offer new ideas. Try http://www.albumcovers.net to view a huge library of cover art. Something from a death metal group may influence your next abstract painting. It may sound cliche, but it would be a good idea to see live music, namely jazz, and practice location drawing. The beat will get your hands moving and keep you engaged; the musicians’ energy drives the gestures. When you go to a show, take some pictures.

A few artists influenced by music:
www.sterlinghundley.com
www.austinshaw.com
www.g66.co.uk
www.derekhess.com

Post by matt on 03/05
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