Pingg

Could you tell us about your work? What inspires you?

• Other than design, one of my greatest passions is traveling. I love discovering new places and experiencing unique cultures around the world. I always try to collect something interesting from the places I’ve been to inspire my design work. Whether it’s a unique business card, a handmade brochure, or even a piece of art, I love seeing how other cultures express themselves through design.

How would you describe the style of most of your designs?

• Most recently, my work has started to take on a vintage and slight retro feel. I love the muted colors and mix of typography that goes into this type of style.

How has your art changed over the years? Do you have any predictions of what it will be like in the future?

• This will probably age me a bit, but when I got into the design business, it was called “desktop publishing” and/or “commercial art”. I’d like to think my style has matured since then. I began my career as a comic book colorist which led into toy packaging design. After starting my own business “Smudge Design Co” (named after my pug ‘Smudge’), I discovered a new path as a branding and stationery designer. Creating original and unique designs that others enjoy and want to share is the hugest compliment I can receive.

What made you decide to work with pingg.com?

• I had been doing some work for an online stationery company that apparently peaked the interest of your co-founder, Lorien Gabel. He asked if I would be interested in designing a collection for pingg. I started in April of 2011 and have been uploading new submissions ever since!

If you had to choose a favorite invite you have made, what would it be?

• I would probably have to say “Chalkboard Birthday Party“. I enjoy the youthful and fresh feel of this design. Growing up in an era where the ‘instant’ Polaroid camera was a staple at every birthday party, I wanted to create something that had a nostalgic feel but with a modern twist.

What benefits have you found the Internet has for your work?

• The Internet has provided so much exposure for me that it’s opened doors I would have never dreamed possible. I also enjoy reading the critiques and comments that allow me to grow more as an artist.