We set out to interview Olivier aka LeDuc as he was acknowledged with the honour to be March’s Designer of the Month. His designs centre around France and a variety of trending topics, so be sure to discover LeDuc’s world of humouristic puns and funny creatures. Here’s what he had to say for himself…
Before getting into the thick of it, can you tell us where you come from and where you grew up?
Hi there! I live in Poitiers where I’ve also spent the majority of my life, although I was born in Paris.
Visual artist, illustrator, designer or graphic artist – how would you describe yourself? And what do you usually say when someone asks what you do?
That’s a good question! It’s true that it’s never easy to define. I tend to say designer or illustrator for convenience’s sake, but never artist. I have a much higher opinion of art and what it brings to our lives. So when I usually hear the question “what do you do?”, I reply “graphics”. And if the person wants to know more, then I elaborate and explain that I find expression in the world of illustration on clothing and accessories.
How did you become a designer? What made you decide to sell your designs on Spreadshirt?
At first it was a bit like a game to find a design that with a certain appeal. It was a personal challenge similar to playing a video game. Only that my goal wasn’t to finish another level, but to sketch up a design that got appreciated. Then gradually I started to like what I did, and I actually learn to draw better.
Why Spreadshirt?
First because of the reputation and the visibility that Spreadshirt enjoys online. Then the simplicity of setting up a product line played important role, especially in the beginning. I didn’t feel like spending hours uploading my drawings for an uncertain result, which makes Spreadshirt a handy option.
What motivates you get creative – the finished product or the power to achieve what you envisioned in your head?
It’s the challenge that motivates me. The challenge to come up with a drawing that I like. The challenge of finding a new idea that has not been realised yet. The challenge of combining the two.
Does your every design have a story? For example, what’s the inspiration behind this design?
Initially there is a stroke of madness, something that makes me laugh. Then I consider whether this idea could be appreciated by others, and then I just get going. The example shown in the illustration is a nod to Shepard Fairey, an artist who I admire. I played with one of his concepts of a Titan eating humans. To understand this pattern, it would be desirable to have a minimum degree of exposure to the manga culture as well.
The illustration of “Y’en a marre” (Enough is Enough) looks very interesting. How did you do it and why?
This is a drawing I first made by hand in pencil. Then I vectorised and colourised it on my PC (please note that not all the designers use a Mac…). The starting point is a simple association of ideas. It expresses Hulk’s anger with the French expression “When we are sick, there is Malabar” (editor’s note: similar to the English “Eat your green vegetables to be as strong as Popeye”. I then imagined the Malabar character losing his mojo and getting angry about it – and that made me laugh laugh.
What’s the design that sells best with Spreadshirt? Do you know why that is, and could you impart precious advice to our readers?
I think it must be this lovable teddy bear
It’s always difficult to explain the success of a design, but what I can say about T-shirt illustrations is that a good design is based on a simple sketch that doesn’t take longer than a minute to develop. This is definitely the most important factor. Then comes the idea, the message that it conveys. The graphics processing and aesthetics are ultimately not that important. This is also a little frustrating when you’re a graphic designer, as this is the part that is the most fun and creative part of the process. This may give hope to those who cannot draw but want to engage in creation. If the idea is good, you’ll succeed.
Brilliant puns like “procafféination” (pro-caffeination) display a clever sense of humour – do your designs help you to look at your surroundings with a smile on your face?
I wish that I had come up with the idea here, but it’s the work of a talented designer called “Zilone”. I initiated a collaboration with him to create this illustration. With his consent, I applied some text and graphic changes and put it up in my shop. And maybe those who know me will tell you that I’m a funny guy; at least I’m trying very hard!
Finally, could you do a little drawing that best represents who you are and what you love in life?
Even if I work hard, I like to take it easy in the end 🙂
Thank you for taking the time, Olivier! We look forward to your new designs, keep them coming.
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