OUGD502 - SB01 - LAND

OUGD502

SB02 

LAND

I contacted Caleb Owen Everitt and Ryan Rhodes at LAND, an Austin - based design studio and creative consultancy. They have a distinct style and they describe their work as a 'distinguishable by a unique blending of art, design and idealism,' Their goal is to use visual communication as a tool to transcend style and time.

Ryan got back to me, this is what he had to say:

Where did you study and what were some of your first jobs?

Caleb and I both studied communication design in college. We were both into "graphic design" before we really knew what it was. My first job out of school was at an advertising agency, working in the small design agency of the firm for 7 years. Then I broke out and worked solo for 2 years before starting Land with Caleb. He worked for a number of folks including Mtv as a freelancer. 

How did you develop your style and what tips would you have for others?

Our style was developed from experimentation. We just tried anything and everything, simplifying and refining. Just did what felt good. And then people started hiring us for our aesthetic. Now, that aesthetic is prevalent in design circles all over the world. Enough that we feel we need to change it up and move on... it became a trend, and we hate trends. I encourage others to do their own thing... the world needs originality, not repetition.

Where do you take your inspiration from and are there any designers out there right now you really admire?

We take our inspiration from old books, ancient and modern references. It comes from everywhere. If you get out and see the world, you see more, your mind expands and it affects you. There aren't any designers currently, but we always look to the past. 

What work excites you the most?

Lately we've been able to work on projects that require more involvement than the traditional "design" gigs. We've been stepping into more roles... architecture, interior design. We've also been digging into starting our own brand of menswear and home goods. We're creating textiles, fragrances, candles, wool sweaters, canvas jackets, and more. 

Do you have any advice for students or recent graduates?

Advice... yeah. Put yourself out there. Go work for the folks you admire, in any capacity. Challenge your comfort level. Don't just go into the world expecting a banger salary... get the experience first.

What would you like to achieve in 2018?

2018 will be full of experiments that I can't discuss ;) 

Do you have any must read books for designers?

Everyone must read the Let My People Go Surfing book by Yvon Chouinard, found of Patagonia. A great read for reluctant business minds.