FEATURING: Adam Larson

Adam Larson, Creative Director/Art Director/Designer/Illustrator, based in London.

Branding for Banyan Bar + Refuge, an Asian gastropub in Boston's South End.

Beyoncé 4, Art Direction & Design

Zico Coconut Water campaign illustration and art direction featuring Jessica Alba.

Hickey Freeman rebrand and campaign.

Lebron 9 launch campaign

New Balance Omni Launch campaign and retail graphics.

NBA2K12 Packaging Illustrations

Puma X Solange sell-in mailer.

Edward Sharpe Gig Poster

Ellie Goulding gig poster.

Flaming Lips gig poster.

Ray Lamontagne gig poster

How did you discover your creativity?

My mother encouraged my artistic interests from a young age. I took classes every Saturday at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston from the age of 7 through High School, so creativity was always part of my path. College definitely opened my eyes to so many different perspectives and therefore broadened my definition of creativity and it was there that it became clear it was something I wanted to pursue as a career. The beautiful thing about it though is that by it's very nature, creativity is constantly changing, and as you change your relationship to your own creativity continues to evolve. So it's something that I'm continuously discovering.

Name the biggest challenge you have had in your career to date. How did you solve it?

I worked within the design department at an advertising agency for a number of years. I learned so much during that time, and it was incredible, however it was also extremely challenging due to the nature of the advertising industry. Design was often disregarded or brought into projects too late to actually be effective. In essence, I'm not sure the agency understood our full potential, and at the time, it was not a well-balanced, integrated discipline. My challenge became figuring out how to maintain a creative profession as a designer while "leaving" the advertising industry. I eventually decided to go out on my own. The biggest challenge yet - but by far the most rewarding.

What was your first “Big Break” in your profession?

For me it was landing my dream job. I got into design by way of music - album covers, magazines, videos. Visual culture in the 90's was so lush and it was driven largely in part by the music industry, or at least that's what I was paying attention to so it felt that way. At that time I was working at a music-based PC game start up, which was super fun, but I was starting to feel the itch to try something new. One of my favourite labels was Rykodisc, who happened to have just posted a job listing for a designer. This was it - my dream job. I put everything I had into making a stand-out portfolio and resume. I even hand delivered it the next day to their office in Salem, MA. Shortly after, I was called in for an interview, and despite showing up with a full-blown flu, I landed the job. I think the fact that I trekked in there that day with cold sweats and a fever proved to them that I really wanted the job. It was everything to me and really confirmed that I was doing what I was supposed to be doing.

What's in your backpack/handbag/tote right now?

My journal, which is always there, iPod (yes, still use a pre-cloud iPod.) and Kim Gordon's memoir titled "Girl in a Band."

Do you have any advice for someone starting out in your creative profession?

Work hard. Always. And never stop learning.

What are some of your favorite places/books/blogs/websites for inspiration?

I definitely maintain a hearty Feedly feed that I read on the regular, but I find much more inspiration in real life. Magazines, book stores, travel, museums, galleries, fashion and music. Oh, MUSIC!

What would be your DREAM ASSIGNMENT?

I worked with Beyoncé and her team on her album 4 a few years ago. That was a dream assignment then, and to be honest, I'd do it all over again in a second.

Who are the people that have been instrumental in your success as a creative professional?

Oomph. There are too many people to list, honestly. I'd say anyone who has ever believed in me, supported me, influenced me, coached me, taught me, or hired me.

What would be your last supper?

Mac-n-cheese.

Full Name: Adam Larson

Profession: Creative Director/Art Director/Designer/Illustrator

Industry: Creative

Website: http://www.adamnco.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adamncompany

Instagram: https://instagram.com/adamnco/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/adamnco

LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/adamnco

Blog: http://adamnco.com/news/

Please contact member directly for information about production, permission and usage.
All images are copyrighted.

FEATURING: Katy Smail

Katy Smail, illustrator & painter, from NYC

What do the words "Creative Community" bring to mind for you? How do you feel is the best way to utilize members in a Creative Community?

My job can be very solitary so it feels important to have a network of people I can turn to for advice, support and inspiration. Having friends who also work freelance in the creative industries has been such a lifeline for me. I turn to them when I need a fresh eye on my work, second opinions when dealing with clients or to collaborate on personal projects. I love working for myself but I also love the feeling of being part of a team; being part of a creative community lets me have both.

What was your first “Big Break” in your profession?

Trusting my intuition and moving to New York from Scotland. I met some wonderful creative people, and started collaborating with the lovely photographer Amanda Pratt. She led me to Kate Ryan Inc. where Kate and Shabnam decided to represent me even though I was just starting out and had barely been published anywhere. Knowing that they were willing to take a chance on me, and that they trusted I could turn my art into a career was so validating. It was a big turning point for me and allowed me to eventually quit my restaurant job and concentrate on my art work full time.

What's in your backpack/handbag/tote right now?

About a million lipsticks, and always my favorite RMS lip2cheek pot. Sandalwood hand cream. Lots of pens. A tincture for stress and anxiety that my herbalist made. My Moleskine diary because I like writing on real paper. A light Indian cotton scarf that my friend brought me from his ashram because I always get cold, even in the summer. A Tide pen that my husband gave me because I am clumsy and I end up with paint and ink on everything. Almonds. My paint-stained phone, wallet and keys tied with a bright blue ribbon so that I don't lose them.

Do you have any advice for someone starting out in your creative profession?

Don't try to draw like anyone else; your personal style is your most precious asset.

What are some of your favorite places/books/blogs/websites for inspiration?

When I am stuck, some time away from my desk to walk around New York or be in the countryside always seems to help. Drawing at the botanical gardens. Or, ideally, a trip to someplace new and beautiful.

What would be your DREAM ASSIGNMENT?

I would LOVE someone to commission me to travel the world, drawing and painting the local plants and flowers. I would turn the work into an exhibition and coffee table book; a collection of impressionistic studies of the world's botanicals. That would be heaven to me.

What would be your last supper?

A long table somewhere outside and warm. My friends and family, lovely music, lots of candles. Oysters, delicious white wine, olives, lots of roasted vegetables, fresh fish, avocado, dark chocolate, negronis. And dancing.

Full Name: Katy Smail

Profession: Illustrator/ Painter

Industry: Art/ Fashion/ Advertising

Website: www.whatktdoes.com

Instagram: @ktsmail

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All images are copyrighted.

FEATURING: Jamie Reiley

Jamie Reiley, creative director, from the Boston area

Venice Beach skateboarder

Portrait of my father while taking photos of our historic family home in Norton, MA.

Portrait of Naseem Khuri and Jenée Morgan Force. Two members of Kingsley Flood taken during some downtime at the Newport Folk Festival 2013.

Log jam at Duffy Lake, Pemberton, BC

Jim James performing at the Newport Folk Festival, 2013

Trombone Shorty performing at the Newport Folk Festival, 2013

Joe Kwon performing at the Newport Folk Festival, 2013

Sunset photo of the Very Large Array in New Mexico. Taken while shooting domes and backplates for GMC vehicle.

What do the words "Creative Community" bring to mind for you? How do you feel is the best way to utilize members in a Creative Community?

Often times there are groups and communities that are specialized and only dedicated to the people that work within that craft. I think a term like Creative Community makes it more encompassing and open to every aspect of the community that deems itself creative. It’s blends everyone from photographers to set designers to pastry chefs. I think there are a number of ways to utilize the members in the community especially in the advertising industry. Whether it be through in-house vendor screenings, open houses or meet up organizations such as Adhesive. It allows people from different disciplines to get actual face time with each other, talk about what they do, exchange contacts and then go create killer work together.

How did you discover your creativity?

Creativity is everywhere you look. And the operative word there is to “look”. I love the motto, “It’s not what you see but how you see”. To me having that lens when looking at the world around you can give you tremendous inspiration. I think it’s really cool when you discover it accidentally. I remember in college I had a design professor that got all of us a subscription to the New York Times. He taught us that life is not all about what we are focusing on in school. You need to open your minds to the entire everything around you. You never know when creativity will strike so keep your eyes, ears and mind always open. I think that has always been important to me because I’ve had some cool ideas pop into my head just walking to the train and seeing something so random that somehow it just fit perfectly into what I was thinking at the time and gave me a little nugget of an idea to work on later.

What's in your backpack/handbag/tote right now?

I don’t carry much really. Laptop, iPad mini, headphones, small sketchpad and a pen & pencil, stowaway raincoat, orange tic tacs, lunch bag.

Do you have any advice for someone starting out in your creative profession?

There are a few very simple things that I adhere to honestly.

1) Be Nice. Because the world is a very small.

2) Ask as many questions as you can because the person you’re learning from was once in the exact same position as you and had to learn everything they know too. And of course always take the time to help those that need it. Giving back is rewarding and the people you help will never forget it.

3) Find what it is that you love, something that makes you want to get up in the morning and you will be happy for the rest of your life. If you have ever received an email from me or see my status on IM you will see a quote that I try to live by which is: “Remember What You Wanted to Be”

4) Balance! Remember to always take care of yourself and surround yourself with the people that make you happy and fill your life with great experiences and life memories because in the end that’s what really matters most.

What would be your DREAM ASSIGNMENT?

Wearing a heavy camera bag on my back, two cameras strapped to my sides and hoofing it through some remote location like Patagonia shooting thousands of photos until my hand cramped and I couldn’t move it anymore.

Who are the people that have been instrumental in your success as a creative professional?

There are plenty of people that I’ve met that have been inspiring to me. Everyone from my family and friends, to robotics engineers, to painters to Sunday school teachers. I love spending time with folks that are smarter than me. People that when they talk about they love they get that look in their eye and get all jazzed up and you can just feel the passion that they have for what they do. It’s pretty awesome.

What would be your last supper?

A big table overlooking the ocean surrounded by friends and family eating the most amazing Italian food, drinking the best wine and beer and topping it off with cheesecake!

Full Name: Jamie Reiley

Profession: Creative Art Direction and Freelance Photographer

Industry: Advertising

Website: jameshound.com

Facebook: facebook.com/jameshound

Instagram: @jameshound

Twitter: @jameshound

LinkedIn: LinkedIn.com/in/jameshound

Please contact member directly for information about production, permission and usage.
All images are copyrighted.

FEATURING: Colu Henry

Colu Henry, cookbook author, based in Brooklyn and Hudson NY.

Anna, Sorgeto Beach, Ischia

Capri

Martha's Vineyard Wedding

Mexico City Lunch

Pacific Coast Oysters

Springtime Bouquet

Piglet at Little Ghent Farm

Pablo's Paella

How did you discover your creativity?

I grew up singing and dancing and got a BFA from Emerson College in Musical Theater, so I was luckily surrounded and supported by creative people early on. My family encouraged me to pursue my passion for performance and while it's not something I do as a career day to day, it has provided a foundation to be able to take risks and the ability to think on my feet.

What was your first “Big Break” in your profession?

Signing with literary agent Kim Witherspoon last year was a pretty major moment for me as was selling my first cookbook to Clarkson Potter. Back Pocket Pasta is being released in spring 2017. It's all about how to pull together artful pasta dinner on the fly. Embrace carbs people, they are back! I have spent the last decade working in agencies and for big brands, I finally have the time to concentrate on my own projects, which is life-changing and overwhelming at the same time. I'm not complaining, just trying to figure it all out.

What's in your backpack/handbag/tote right now?

Hurrah, I've always wanted to answer this question! At least three lipsticks in varying shades of red. Russian Red by MAC and Dragon Girls by Nars are my favorite. Phone and charger. ABC, yo. Always be charging! I'm on the go and there is nothing worse than a dead phone. 1 million loose bobby pins. My friend Kevin calls me Broom Hilda. He finds them months after I've visited his home in Portland, OR. If I'm being honest, a few Valium. Be mindful. Be prepared! My passport. You never know! And, as I wrote this, I was asked to go to Belize in two weeks, so you really never know! Oh, and a few doggy bags for our little man Josh.

Do you have any advice for someone starting out in your creative profession?

Work your ass off, pay your dues, learn from every experience (especially the painful ones), be kind, and be passionate. The rest will fall into place.

What are some of your favorite places/books/blogs/websites for inspiration?

I think my friends are my biggest source of inspiration. I'm blessed with a lot of amazing ones who are pretty wonderful at listening to ideas and talking things through. We all help each other.

What would be your DREAM ASSIGNMENT?

To travel the world with no deadlines. Stage in some kitchens, meet interesting people and figure out a brilliant way to write about my experiences. Writing a cookbook is pretty great too though.

Who are the people that have been instrumental in your success as a creative professional?

Desiree Gruber, my first boss at Full Picture PR. She believed in me and told me that I could do anything I wanted, I just needed to figure out what it was. She has supported every endeavor I've ever pursued. Editor-in-chief of PUNCH Talia Baiocchi. Not only is she a dear friend, but also an incredibly gifted writer. She's got my back always and we support each other in different ways. My husband Chad. He pushes me and encourages me to break the rules. I'm a people pleaser to a fault and he challenges me to take care of myself first. It's hard to be married to someone who is a creative genius and brilliant at everything he touches, but he is usually right, again about everything.

What would be your last supper?

I probably should say pasta, but it's cold fried chicken, fried potatoes and a bottle Bandol rosé... for myself.

Full Name: Colu Henry

Profession: Cookbook Author

Industry: Food, wine and lifestyle media

Website: www.coluhenry.com

Facebook: Colu Henry

Instagram: @coluhenry

Twitter: @coluhenry

Please contact member directly for information about production, permission and usage.
All images are copyrighted.

FEATURING: Jasmine Hamed

Jasmine Hamed, stylist, based in SF

Test Shoot with Alex Farnum during my birthday camp out

Toyota Together Rreen campaign with Erik Almas

7x7 magazine with Alex Farnum

Amanda Adams with Erik Almas

Apple picking story with Alex Farnum

Adobe CS6 campaign

Launch of Google store, featuring Mademoiselle Maurice.

GoRVing Find Your Away campaign with @TeamVegar

How did you discover your creativity?

It began at a young age. I wanted to make 'art'. In school it was my favorite subject. When I had to choose a career, my parents were convinced you couldn't really get too far with just 'art' and I had to choose a more practical form of it, so I came up with Graphic Design. After graduating and working as a graphic designer, I realized I didn't like it - it still felt too much like a 9-5 office job and I did not entirely get the creative freedom I was looking for. What I did like was trend research & forecasting and then found out about a post graduate course that focusses on styling (this is in Holland where I'm from). After graduating as the only one doing 'fashion styling' I soon became fashion editor for a Dutch magazine. From there it was only onward and upward, and after moving to the bay area I really focussed on mostly advertising. I am back to making art in various forms and am always crafting something.

Name the biggest challenge you have had in your career to date. How did you solve it?

When I first got started here I signed with an agency. They where a tremendous help in starting my career and connecting me with clients. However, as the recession approached, I noticed that the paychecks where not coming in anymore. I somehow found out that clients did pay their invoices, meaning the agency was holding back the money. I couldn't just quit because that would mean saying goodbye to my money (there was never a real contract signed). I felt co-dependant and that was a horrible feeling. I started taking jobs outside the agency to try to bring down the balance they owed to me. It worked and I eventually left them. In the end, we did get our money. But as the agency folded, they burned so many artist. It was a hard time, but the year after I left their roster I had the most successful year ever recorded on my books.

What was your first “Big Break” in your profession?

After moving to the US, I signed with an agency as soon as I obtained my green card. I had been testing with this photographer and he had a big gig he booked me on. It involved 8 days of shooting, 80+ talent, switching scenarios with different ethnic groups each with their own specific dress codes. It was a lot but after that one I felt like I could conquer anything.

What's in your backpack/handbag/tote right now?

I actually don't carry a bag. As I am always on the fly, I can't have it weigh me down. All I carry is a credit card, ID and phone.

Do you have any advice for someone starting out in your creative profession?

Always say YES. Dream really big. Work really hard. Oh, and no bragging.

What are some of your favorite places/books/blogs/websites for inspiration?

I get my inspiration mostly from friends. So many of them are all so unique in their own way, live a certain lifestyle, do a certain craft, are into things that fascinate me. I learn so much from them. I do not read any fashion magazines and don't look at any fashion blogs.

What would be your DREAM ASSIGNMENT?

I already kinda did my dream assignment. I got invited to work on the Adobe CS6 campaign where we created 20-some images that each represented a software program, so basically giving each software package a 'face'. Interestingly enough, a lot of it was actually shot in camera. They gave us complete creative freedom and we just created and made art together.

Who are the people that have been instrumental in your success as a creative professional?

My old boss Serveas Spiekerman who gave me the freedom and push to explore my styling career while still working as a graphic designer at his studio in Amsterdam. My dear friend Renu Kashyap, who started styling around the same time and who has since created a magical life & career for herself in Ibiza. My husband Justin who is my backbone, business partner and voice of reason with incredible intuition. And all the art buyers, producers, agents and photographers who believed in my creativity and my capabilities.

What would be your last supper?

It would be exactly like the dinner at my birthday camp-out two years ago. #gypsywhipit

Full Name: Jasmine Hamed

Profession: Stylist

Industry: Advertising

Website: www.StylistJasmine.com

Instagram: @stylistjasmine

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All images are copyrighted.

FEATURING: Molly Scannell

Molly Scannell, Designer & Artist, based in the Boston Area

WHAT DO THE WORDS "CREATIVE COMMUNITY" BRING TO MIND FOR YOU? HOW DO YOU FEEL IS THE BEST WAY TO UTILIZE MEMBERS IN A CREATIVE COMMUNITY?

The words ‘creative community’ immediately make me thing about collaboration, support & passion. Right?! I guess a community can start with one other person. It has too. I’m semi shy and refer to myself, often, as a social hermit. So a community better be able to start with one other person! And we should be like-minded in our goals and thoughts, but different enough that we can learn from each other. That can easily scale up to a larger group. It should be full of thoughtful like-minded people (creative-obviously) with variations of their own personalities. Keeping it fun and interesting. Utilization is about sharing & connecting to me. We help each other. 10 fingers, please! WORD!

WHAT WOULD BE YOUR DREAM ASSIGNMENT?

My dream assignment, right now, would be doing a collaborative fashion window installation for a large high-end retailer. I suppose it doesn’t have to be high end at all, just a big open space looking out onto the streets, begging for someone to pay attention. “Take me somewhere!” in the form of large-scale collage combined with objects and painting. Maybe even -dare I say…technology! Next up would be a look book type thing for any brand. I do enjoy dreaming of making these for really fun brands that take risks in their look books and overall messaging like Prada, miu miu and H&M. I LOVE making books and artful things with humans in them. It’s incredibly rewarding and fun for me. I also love thinking about how it can breakdown into other channels, campaign style.

WHO ARE THE PEOPLE THAT HAVE BEEN INSTRUMENTAL IN YOUR SUCCESS AS A CREATIVE PROFESSIONAL?

So many people have been instrumental in whatever success I may or may not have. But really how do you define ‘success’? Seems like this is an age-old question. It’s different for everyone and I’d say there is never really a constant of ‘success’. Being from an artistic family and living in a community of artists at an early age, it was impossible not to love being creative from the get go. It’s something I did with my mom, my grandmother and my closest of friends. More recently it’s my close friends that love talking with me about my work and then running assignments together. Which is all about keeping the mind thinking and creating fun interesting things. The instagram community I get to engage and collaborate with on many different levels. It’s been a true blessing. I’ve made lots of artistic friends in this social space. I love looking at all kinds of art and I especially love being inspired by others out in the world more than anything. Inspirations can be discovered through instagram, friends, artists, museums, found objects, and my kids….

DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR SOMEONE STARTING OUT IN YOUR CREATIVE PROFESSION?

Never be afraid to try something new and never, ever, ever, EVER be afraid to fail. Some of the best things in life come from those moments. I read this this morning and it resonated with me with regards to the above, “The thing we all have to remember, though, is that if it doesn’t scare us even a little bit, then it lacks the ability to be that once in a lifetime opportunity to change our lives for the better. Nothing amazing ever comes from us staying in our comfort zones.”

WHAT WOULD BE YOUR LAST SUPPER?

I LOVE THIS QUESTION! First, my last supper would be an amazing collage of blues, yellows – hints of the ocean, sunshine and there would be a few halos. It would be about cheese, fig spreads, wine (lots of wine), veggies and fruits. Good colors. Gluten-free a must. No baguettes, they function as weapons. It would most certainly not be about betrayal, but trickery, jokes and perhaps high-end fashion that was large scale living in a window somewhere like….Neiman Marcus. Hehehe! I might have to dip portions of it in gold. Yes, this would be a must. If you really want to know what my last supper would be, it would involve wine, red: Cleto Chiarli Grasparossa di Castelvetro Lambrusco... Or a nice Pinot Noir. Lots of delicious cheese, seafood, and greenery adorned with tomatoes, nuts and golden niblets. I’d pretty much eat mostly anything, but as a girl who grew up on/in the ocean, fresh food obtained from the sea if preferred.

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE PLACES/BOOKS/BLOGS/WEBSITES FOR INSPIRATION?

Well, that’s secret shit. I kid! Most recently, and I am semi-embarrassed to admit this, I got a Boston Public Library card. To the BIG Library, not the one down the street from my house. I’m starting to get inspired from a whole new angle. I’m excited!

I follow a lot of fashion/artist/interesting types on tumblr that I get inspiration from. There is some seriously crazy stuff out there, crazy good stuff. Search for anything on tumblr you like or need and I’m sure you will find a few peoples feeds that you find inspiring or interesting to look at.

Pinterest is semi HUGE for me. I have so many secret boards with lots of inspiring images and art on them that I can re-purpose for things I make. However, Pinterest is getting too business oriented and serving up one to many ads and ‘you might like’ tiles, that I have already liked. So not only is it annoying, its not even personalized based on what I have. So the enjoyment factor has dipped a bit. But my boards are still inspirational to me without a doubt.

WHAT'S IN YOUR HANDBAG RIGHT NOW?

This is when I get to pretend I am a fancy celebrity in LUCKY mag. Eva Chen eat your heart out. Currently, my bag is a Sleazy Jane Bag by Oh.my.bag with a double golden chain. It’s a favorite.

INSIDE YOU WILL FIND:

Mac plug for my laptop
Leather makeup pouch with golden paint block prints by my best friend Julia from the Sarah Elizabeth Shop.
Rayban wayfarer shades in brown wrapped leather (in their case)
1 gold sharpie
1 black sharpie
A persimmon clutch with tiger stripes and a dog portrait on the back.
In that clutch is a tiny brown leather vintage purse with gold and brown design work on the outside and a gold clasp. A gift from a best friend. It also has money, few cards and some receipts in it.
2-iPod touches- my daughters that are locked for 3 million hours and I cant unlock them, an iPhone 4 with a demoed screen and an iphone3. Need to get the oldies fixed as music things around the house.
2 - 4x4 collages
Work badge
Client badge
1 old crumpled grocery list

Full Name: Molly C. Scannell

Profession: Designer/Artist

Industry: Marketing/Advertisting/FineArt

Website: www.a-collage.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/molly.scannell

Instagram: I nstagram.com/a_collage

Twitter: Twitter.com/mctibbetts

Blog: a-collage.tumblr.com

Please contact member directly for information about production, permission and usage.
All images are copyrighted.

FEATURING: Brian Gordon

Brian Gordon, cartoonist, based in Kansas City

HOW DID YOU DISCOVER YOUR CREATIVITY?

I was a crazy-shy, non-sports-playing kid growing up with very few friends. This left loads of time for drawing and daydreaming. While other kids were learning how to throw a baseball I was pouring over the comic pages of our newspaper studying all the funny drawings. Around age seven I told my mom I wanted to be a cartoonist. My mom smiled politely, like any parent does when they hear what ridiculous thing their kid wants to be when they grow up. But unlike other kids, I was too stubborn (or stupid) to throw the towel in on my crazy dream job.

Note: if cartooning doesn’t work out I’m totally becoming an astronaut.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST "BIG BREAK" IN YOUR PROFESSION?

I sort of stumbled into an internship at Hallmark back when I was in grad school. It mostly just sounded like a nice way to spend the summer. I had no idea it would turn into a 18 year long, mostly-wonderful career as a greeting card artist.

WHO ARE THE PEOPLE THAT HAVE BEEN INSTRUMENTAL IN YOUR SUCCESS AS A CREATIVE PROFESSIONAL?

I can’t say enough about my professor, Roger DeMuth, at Syracuse University. He was the first, unapologetic, humorous illustrator I ever met. When I entered grad school I had bought into the notion that to be a real artist you had to make dark, serious things. Seeing the irreverence and joy in Roger’s work made me realize that creating something funny was just as valid as any other approach to art.

NAME THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE YOU HAVE HAD IN YOUR CAREER TO DATE. HOW DID YOU SOLVE IT?

I’m actually in the thick of that challenge right now! Having been recently laid off from Hallmark I’m trying to figure out how best to support myself and my family going forwards. My webcomic, Fowl Language, is growing in popularity, but like anything on the internet, it’s hard to make a living when you’re largely giving your content away for free.

I’ve enrolled in some entrepreneurial business classes and I’m networking with friends in the webcomic world to try and figure out how I can make this pursuit sustainable. I’ve been using a Patreon page, which allows my readership to help support me monthly, I’m getting ready to self-publish a book of my most popular cartoons and I’m about to expand my online shop.

WHAT WOULD BE YOUR LAST SUPPER?

Anything shrimp-based. I’m horribly allergic and that shit would kill me. That is what you meant, right?

Full Name: Brian Gordon

Profession: Cartoonist

Website: www.fowllanguagecomics.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/FowlLanguageComics

Instagram: instagram.com/fowllanguagecomics

Twitter: twitter.com/fowlcomics

Please contact member directly for information about production, permission and usage.
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FEATURING: Emiko Oye

emiko oye - jewelry artist, business owner, yoga instructor - based in San Francisco

Blue Steel from My First Royal Jewels Jewelry Collection

Blue Steel in progress

Lips Like Sugar brooch from the Under the Killing Moon series

Cautious Lip Lip#6 convertible necklace process image

emiko's best sellers, the reware bracelet collection

La Cérémonie de la Mémoire (The Ceremony of Memory) from Les Voyageurs de Temps Series, 2013 & Inspiration image: Ceremonial necklace by Cartier, 1928

Maharajah's 6th from My First Royal Jewels Jewelry Collection & Inspiration image: Boucheron emerald, diamond, and platinum necklace, 1928

One-of-a-kind custom collaboration bracelet based on a Architect Barbie® palette

Cygne Noir from My First Royal Jewels Jewelry Collection, 2009

reware trio 1x1 bracelet

The reware men's collection

WHAT OR WHO DO YOU FIND INSPIRING?
Getting out of the house to see art exhibitions at museums and galleries – the special exhibits shown at the De Young or Legion of Honor here in SF have inspired many of my recent larger, more conceptual bodies of work; Historical jewelry by Cartier, Lalique & Boucheron, room-size installations by Louise Nevelson, avante garde fashion by Viviane Westwood, paper fashion mastery by Isabelle de Borchgrave. When designing for my reware line, I’m hyper aware of eye-catching, unusual color patterns all around me – on the street, in the fashion mags, paintings, architecture.

HOW DID YOU DISCOVER YOUR CREATIVE PROFESSION?
My study of Metalsmithing, Fashion Design and Costume Design at Syracuse University ignited the spark that led me into this land of art jewelry that I live and breathe. I’ve always felt most alive when making, especially when it comes to transforming found materials into something inspiring and unexpected. Establishing roots in San Francisco where there is a strong craft and jewelry community and much self-starter enthusiasm, made it much easier to cultivate my creative passion into a viable jewelry business. While simultaneously expanding my ready-to-wear business and exhibiting my one-of-a-kind art jewelry in museums, I began to receive accolades from the well-respected in my field, with fans fondly referring to me as “The LEGO® Lady”

WHAT IS THE TOUGHEST THING YOU HAVE BEEN THROUGH PROFESSIONALLY?
The most challenging professional experience was my first year leading the helm of the Metal Arts Guild (http://metalartsguildsf.org/) , a Bay Area non-profit at a pivotal point in it’s history – the 60th Anniversary. It was my mission to re-energize the membership by broadening our community, cross-pollinating with other arts organizations and bring the guild into the digital age. Planning a fanfare year with our first-ever symposium, 3 juried exhibitions, parties, turned my brain into high year 24-7 – way more intense than planning my own wedding. Learning how to let go of complete control and delegate, trusting that people will pull through was my biggest lesson and lifesaver along with riding the magic wave of collaboration. What seems like serendipity is really being open to the idea that anything is possible when empowered and invigorated people come together for a project or cause.

WHO ARE THE PEOPLE THAT HAVE BEEN INSTRUMENTAL TO YOUR SUCCESS?
I owe much of my success to my mentor and fellow recycling artist, Harriete Estel Berman. As her assistant for over a decade, I learned first-hand how to be a professional, accessible, and reliable artist and develop skills for everything business related, from marketing & designing, photography & presentations, pricing and accounting. Plus she led me straight to the LEGO® store as a source of inspiration! http://askharriete.typepad.com

Also big props to my Critique Group, an art collective of 7 peers, we meet monthly (since 1998!) to share what we’re working on to get feedback and keep us on track, both with our creations and in our businesses. These people have become family and we’re not afraid to give each other tough love advice! Some of the best art I’ve created was because I was open to the group’s suggestions during my design process and ran with it.

WHY DO YOU LOVE ADHESIVE?
I love getting out of my jewelry and studio craft bubble and am always inspired by meeting other creatives who are doing what they love and energized by it. It’s a breath of fresh air to attend these gatherings, ‘cause you never know whom you might meet – I always walk away with a new perspective on what I’m doing, fired up to get back to the studio!

Full Name: emiko oye

Profession: jewelry artist, business owner, yoga instructor

Industry: jewelry

Website: emikooreware.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/emikooreware

Instagram: Instagram.com/emikooreware

Twitter: Twitter.com/emikooreware

Tumblr: Tumblr.com/emikooreware

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FEATURING: Thayer Gowdy

Thayer Gowdy, photographer, based in San Francisco

Anthology Magazine

Apple

Coastal Living

FitBit

JC Penney Print Ad

Monster Speakers

Parents Magazine

Target web campaign

Tiny Atlas Quarterly

WHAT OR WHO DO YOU FIND INSPIRING?
I am inspired by my surroundings, nature, sunlight and my subjects. Every time I shoot I gain so much inspiration from everything around me and the amazing people in front of my camera.

HOW DID YOU DISCOVER YOUR CREATIVE PROFESSION?
I first discovered photography just after high school, and it was love from day one. I needed an extra credit and was blindsided by what was to be my thing that drove my life. I moved into directing a few years ago and I have always been enchanted with the magic of filmmaking and feel so lucky to have the opportunity.

WHAT IS THE TOUGHEST THING YOU HAVE BEEN THROUGH PROFESSIONALLY?
When you first starting out, you work non-stop. I think the hardest thing for me was the first years of 7 days a week and often 15 hours a day. I missed a lot of weddings and vacations with friends and family for amazing shoots. As time went on I learned to ask for help; thanks to a herd of amazing interns and my talented studio managers, I have been able to grow while finding time to recharge and be creative.

WHO ARE THE PEOPLE THAT HAVE BEEN INSTRUMENTAL TO YOUR SUCCESS?
Wow, that is a tough one and will be longer than both my arms. Early on a creative director named Tim Kain gave me chances most wouldn’t with both still shoots and motion work. While never doubting my ability, that gave me great confidence and a solid foundation when I first started shooting. Suzanne Donaldson, who is now running Mrs Sizzle and former Executive Photo Director of Conde Nast’s Glamour magazine and prior to that Producer for the likes of Tim Walker. I had the absolute pleasure of working with her early on in my career when I was producing and she to this day inspires me. My family and their endless unconditional love, paved the way from the start in teaching me to be calm, clear, relaxed and reach for the stars.

WHY DO YOU LOVE ADHESIVE?
The first event I have been to was in NYC in the Lower East Side, it was a crazy rainy night and it was refuge in so many ways. There were so many people there I had only known by name, and putting a face to all the amazing NYC folks was fantastic! It was engaging, energetic and welcoming. I was thrilled to have Adhesive come to San Francisco and meet so many new faces here. I travel a ton and spend time home when not running around the world. It's often hard to get out and meet so many people, but Adhesive events bring everyone together in an inviting casual way.

Full Name: Thayer Allyson Gowdy

Profession: Director and Photographer

Website: thayergowdy.com

Facebook: ThayerandCo

Instagram: thayerandco

Tumblr: http://thayergowdy.tumblr.com/

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FEATURING: Erik Umphery

Erik Umphery, Photographer based in LA

Beyonce, Eone-Records Promo Images, 2014

Catherine Gontran + Vanessa Jamison, Personal Shoot, 2015

Erik at his 1st Adhesive!

Erykah-Badu, Essence Mag, 2014

Erik on location

Katie Hoaldridge, Personal-Shoot, 2015

Kevin Hart, BET Mirmax Wedding Ringer Promo, 2014

Jordan Hardy, Personal-Shoot, 2015

Taraji P Henson, BET Celebration of Gospel Campaign, 2014

WHAT OR WHO DO YOU FIND INSPIRING?
People living life on purpose, pushing themselves beyond what others could have every dreamed, and using the talents they have been blessed with to their fullest. To me that is the most inspiring thing. I’m also inspired through traveling to new places discovering new thing and meeting new people when I travel.

HOW DID YOU DISCOVER YOUR CREATIVE PROFESSION?
When I was about 6 or 7 my mom put me in a photography classes and for years I carried my camera with me everywhere. She past when I was 11 and I stopped shooting, once I got into college I wanted to take a class at my school, but wasn’t at a point where I could invest in the equipment required. I ended up graduating with a degree in finance and worked in corporate america for 9 yrs, but my last 2 yrs working I purchased an DSLR, took a photography class finally decided to set out on faith and quit my job sold most of my belongings and moved to LA.

WHAT IS THE TOUGHEST THING YOU HAVE BEEN THROUGH PROFESSIONALLY?
Learning how to deal with the highs and lows of the business, particularly early on. I was fortunate enough to book 4 jobs my second year as a full-time photographer shooting for Gillette, I thought that I had made it and every job would be like that, then when the phone wasn’t ringing with jobs or the jobs were no where near the level of the Gillette jobs it caused me to hit a really hard low. Eventually I pulled myself out of the low and just started shooting a ton of personal work. And through the personal work my phone start to ring a little more, but I really work hard to not let big opportunities or disappointments affect me and just remain even and continue shooting personal work every chance I get.

WHO ARE THE PEOPLE THAT HAVE BEEN INSTRUMENTAL TO YOUR SUCCESS?
Definitely my friend and first person I interned for Derek Blanks (www.dblanks.com) he taught me to be fearless and experiment. Then there is Elton Anderson (www.eltonanderson.com) he’s probably one of my closest friends we bounce ideas off of one another, we challenge each other to work harder and we give one another very open honest feedback on everything we do. Cali Capodici she was the art director that my best friend kind of dumped me in her lap and she took me in and has done so much to help me grow and taught me so much about the industry Dhane Scotti my best friend who dumped me in Cali’s lap, introduced me to Elton, and introduced me to so many amazing people in general.

WHY DO YOU LOVE ADHESIVE?
The first time I went to an Adhesive event it was for an anniversary party in NY and it was held at this amazing loft, with free booze, a photo booth and so many incredibly cool people. I was with my boy Elton and I had probably been shooting professionally for 1yr at the time and I just thought this was the coolest thing ever. Since then I’ve been to dozens of Adhesive events and for me it not about selling myself to people but just a relax environment to meet some amazing creatives. Everything from writers, directors, illustrators, art directors, reps, photographers, and they all have such amazing stories. And as a fan of photography it is always cool when I meet a photographer who’s work I love.

Full Name: Erik Umphery

Profession: Photographer

Industry: Commercial / Advertising

Website: www.erikumphery.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/erik.umphery

Instagram: https://instagram.com/erikumphery/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ErikUmphery

Blog: http://blog.erikumphery.com

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All images are copyrighted.