Every Wednesday for the next few weeks, we'll feature an exclusive interview with one of our top artists. This week, meet Vó Maria!
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What inspires your work?
I like creativity and I try to find different sides of common situations and translate that to graphic jokes and infamous puns. Funny situations and parodies are 90% of what I do.
What’s your creative process when creating a new design?
I have ideas all the time. I try to write them down when possible on sketchbooks, emails to myself, napkins… Then, some manual sketches help me guide my digital artwork.
How would you describe your design aesthetic/style?
I don’t know if I have one. I use my drawing skills to translate what I want. For now, I’m kind a multi-task, from vector cartoons to typography and realistic artworks. Seems working.
Where’d your name come from?
I’m from Brazil. The Portuguese word “Vó” means “grandma” in English. I started playing with my great-grandma Maria, as if she creates everything I published on the internet. She is 96 years old now.
What do you like most about being a designer?
Freedom and working with what I’m passionate about.
How did you come into t-shirt design?
Do you know Mathiole? We were classmates (now we are associates). He introduced me to this brave new amazing world and I loved it.
What are your favorite two designs of yours?
I like and dislike them all the time. For now, I enjoy Happiness and New Follower.
Do you have a design and/or series you’d like to highlight?
By now, check my Donald Trump Duck design. I like this one too, Trojan Rabbit. And I like the vintage stuff I did recently. See my store for more.
Are there any current artists in the t-shirt design community that you’re a fan of or collaborate with?
Yes, sure. Mathiole and Hafaell were part of Verso, our graphic design studio here in Brazil. And I talk a lot with many designers too, to share experiences.
What movies/shows/books/music/podcasts are you really into right now?
I’m focusing on increase my inventory of designs this year, so, hard work ahead, and most of my free time I’m watching tutorials and podcasts about this. I’m watching a lot of Netflix now, Black Mirror this moment, a little bit late (but it’s awesome!). Music, all the time.
What three things would you bring with you to a deserted island?
My girlfriend, internet and a magic lamp with infinite credits.
What is your spirit animal and why?
I’m a sloth in potential. Why?
What’s your favorite tee you own?
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Check out Vó Maria's TeePublic shop and follow him on social:
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