Feel like getting inspired, motivated or just looking to fill a bit of time over the Christmas? Then look no further. There’s no better way to jump start your day than a generous dose of inspiration from one of the top creative festivals in the world, OFFSET. We have over 80 hours of inspiration, but don’t feel overwhelmed, we’ve rounded up 5 of the most inspirational illustration talks out there. So sit back, relax and get ready to watch to some of our favourite illustrators, who have joined us at Offset Dublin over the last few years. Kicking off with Ben Newman and Steve Simpson talking about the different routes into illustration.
1. Martin Haake | Don’t Hide Your Mistake
With over 15 years of freelancing behind, Hake’s illustrations have travelled all over the world. He’s worked with Daimler Chrysler, Orange, Elle and Penguin Books, to name just a few, and he has scooped up several prestigious international awards along the way. Some of his work was selected for Taschen’s ‘Illustration Now’ collection. He is currently based in Berlin.
2. Chris Judge | Don’t Be Precious
Chris Judge is an Irish Illustrator who’s quietly become a gigantic hit and is a hero here at Offset Towers. Chris has never missed an OFFSET – he’s been here as a delegate, second stage speaker, second stage interviewer, and now finally, the main stage. When he joined us on the main stage, he championed the sketchbook and the value of buying expensive notebooks and then filling them with shite, our thoughts exactly.
3. Mike Perry | Do Something Big
With a client roster that includes The New York Times, Nike, Apple and Urban Outfitters, where he started his career, we are continually inspired by Mike Perry. His funky, cool, fun, cheeky and free spirited work gives more than a passing nod to the mavericks that reinvented illustration in 60s, like Gill and Chwast, with a hefty dollop of early 90s MTV. In 2014 he joined us on stage and shared some inspiring insights into his work including his drive to go big or go home.
4. Tara McPherson | Your Past Shapes the Future
Tara McPherson is an artist based out of New York City. Creating art about people and their odd ways, her characters seem to exude an idealized innocence with a glimpse of hard earned wisdom in their eyes. Recalling many issues from childhood and good old life experience, she creates images that are thought provoking and seductive. People and their relationships are a central theme throughout her work. This talk is full of nuggets of wisdom, and includes her reflection on how our past can shape our future.
5. Tomi Ungerer | Be Endlessly Curious
What will probably go down as not only one of the great talks of year Offset 2015, but in OFFSET history, was when we were all lucky enough to witness Tomi Ungerer in conversation with Irish illustrator, Steve Simpson. In this conversation, Tomi talks us through everything with this touching and captivating journey through his life and his work.