Crowdsource Designer Interview #7
In each of our Crowdsource Designer Report interviews here on Springleap, we dig deep to get the feedback from designers and illustrators from around the world on their experience of crowdsourced design platforms. We shoot them some questions, they respond, and you get the lowdown - everyone wins! In today’s interview, we have the pleasure of interviewing Canadian illustrator Kirsten McCrae, who has a penchant for pop culture, politics and patterns!
Who are you? I’m Kirsten McCrea, an artist and the Founder and Director of Papirmasse, an affordable art subscription. Where do you live?
Between Toronto and Montreal, Canada.
Describe yourself - likes/ dislikes.
I love playing with the cross between popular and underground culture / patterning / politics / going out to see art shows. I dislike art that looks like an advertisement minus the product.
Which platforms do you use?
Threadless, Mintees, and Infectious.
How did you hear about them?
You don’t have to travel far on the internet to learn about most of the above. In the case of Infectious, they contacted me after seeing my work on Artist A Day.
What do you love about crowdsourcing contests/ what don’t you?
I am continually surprised by the sophisticated design taste of the public. I would say that generally, with crowdsourced design contests, the best stuff rises to the top.
Has it become a sustainable source of income?
No, I think that most successful artists rely on multiple sources of income. In my case, I was putting a lot of effort into it but eventually better opportunities came along from repeat clients. I now rarely submit to these types of websites, though I wouldn’t be surprised if I started to again at some point in the future.
What inspires you?
Working alongside other talented artists in the collective En Masse. My brilliant husband Jp King of Paper Pusher. Independent publishing. Parties.
Describe your design style?
A patterned and ornamental balance between extreme chaos and restrained tight lines.
Where did you study design?
I studied Fine Art (painting and drawing) at Concordia University in Montreal.
Which are your favorite designers and styles?
I think Sagmeister is everyone’s favourite these days, so I will try to be less predictable and pick Stephen Heller and Jessica Hische.
What category of projects are your favorites? (e.g: packaging)
Gig posters and apparel.
What has been your favorite brief so far?
Every favourite brief is the one that says “Just do your thing. We trust you.”
How can the experience be improved?
For everything in general, the more people involved, the better.
Thanks to Kirsten for her time and insights!
Would you like to read more Crowdsource Designer Interviews? You can see the growing list of designers we’re speaking to here.
