Today I present an interview with suqer. The Sweden based designer joined deviantART 5 years ago and has since contribute to the Typography and Design galleries. His illustrations and logo designs take up graffiti stylistics as well as calligraphic appearances. Throughout his gallery you will find brilliant examples of custom lettering and type design.
You can follow his work on Flickr, the Behance Network or his website Martin Schmetzer (currently under construction).
The Interview!
Please introduce yourself!
suqer: I am 27 years old and was born and raised in Stockholm, Sweden. I work as a designer at Just Go - Eventdesign, but take on typography and logo- freelance commissions on my "spare" time.
How did you get into art and design?
suqer: I've been drawing letters my whole life but I became really passionate when I discovered graffiti as a 12 years old. As a graffiti writer I always aimed for symmetry in my letters, something that follows me 'til this day in my hand drawn typography and logo designs.
Where do you find inspirations for new works?
suqer: I find inspiration in everything from food labels to graffiti tags.
How important is the sketching process to you?
suqer: The sketching process is most valuable for me. I always start drawing pen on paper before turning to the computer. I have sometimes tried drawing direct in illustrator without a scanned sketch but it just doesn't get the same flow and life. It looks forced.
What advise would you give someone who wants to get into design, typography or art?
suqer: I'd say from own experience; start drawing graffiti. Graffiti is a good way of experimenting with the alphabet and learn how the letters are put together. You don't have to follow any "guides or rules" and can twist and bend the letters 'til you tamed the word into something own and unique.
Do you think it helps young artists to join online communities?
suqer: Yes, especially as an inspiration source.
You create a lot of Logo Designs: What do you consider most important about them?
suqer: The style and character of my designs doesn't appeal every body/company. I enjoy drawing funky and playful logotypes therefore I´d never for example design microsoft´s new logo or even get the inquiry.
I often aim for a little witty undertone or detail in my logos that represent the words in the company name or the company business. There is nothing unique at all with this kind of thinking but I wish and hope that I execute it in my own peculiar way.
One characteristic of your style is what appears to be a mix Calligraphy and Graffiti… How did you develop into this?
suqer: As I mentioned before, graffiti is my background. And I guess you can take the writer out of the street but you can´t take the street out of the writer. Haha
Is there any medium or style you haven't tried so far, but would love to play with at some point?
suqer: I enjoy handicrafts of all kinds and are often more impressed with hand made designs compared to digital. I am seriously considering taking a course in copper etching or wood carving.
What's your 3 favourite pieces from your own work?
Can you share some of your favourites from dA and tell us why you like them?
suqer: Bad ass typography! [ a swiss fuckin' watch by incogburo]
suqer: Wish I had this talent! [ The Small God of the Good Tea by Felideus ]
suqer: Style is king! [ Splash art session 2010 by korpz ]
Where else to find
Stay tuned for more interviews to come!
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I will get in contact with them to ask them wether they might be available for an interview. You can also questions you would like me to ask. I may collect them and use them for the next interview.
Thanks for reading
