Justin Maller has been a digital artist for over fifteen years. Always up for a challenge, he just finished his Facets project and is also Founder/Creative Director of The Depthcore. This group is an international art collective focused on modern digital art, and released selected works (from disciplines as diverse as illustration, photography, music and animation) to promote the outstanding creative members. Maller´s enviable list of clients includes global brands like: Nike, NBA, Coca-Cola, American Express, HP, LG, Dolby, Under Armour, ESPN and Disney.
What qualities and skills should a good graphic designer have?
JM: I consider myself an artist rather than a graphic designer; designers need to have a lot of discipline to operate within frameworks of functionality and theory, whereas artists are a lot freer to pursue visual outcomes without considering their implementation. Regardless, I think having an open mind, a good work ethic and a well-fed imagination are the core considerations for being a happy and productive artist.
About your portfolio; which pieces are you most proud of, and why?
JM: Whatever I made most recently, usually…I’m always proudest of the pieces that show growth and evolution.
How do you incorporate feedback into your designs? What’s the best piece of constructive criticism you’ve ever gotten?
JM: My art collective Depthcore was a hub of amazing constructive criticism. I miss the evolution and development possible in a private collective environment. So many different things highlighting specific flaws and general preferences were highlighted during our years together. Outside perspectives are always valuable when trying to grow as an artist.
