DesignersCouch creative Federico de Luca has no small talent. This graphic designer who resides in Berlin, Germany, has developed a flexible and eclectic style through mixed media. His characters may seem otherworldly, but also familiar, drawing you into his art pieces and letting you step into their world, if just for a moment.
So what motivates Federico to create the people and places he does? Browse through some of his work first, then see our interview with him below.
Q. How'd you get started in graphic design?
I only studied Comics Drawing and then I started to work as an Illustrator and Comics Inker. I was just 18, but i left drawing jobs to work as a digital retoucher and graphic designer. Eventually the graphic work lead me again to drawing; every experience I had helped me to mature as a professional. I even studied sociology. Basically I started to work with some friends of mine, learning day by day. I learned from many people but I do consider myself to be self taught.
Q. Where does your inspiration come from?
I like photography, paintings, movies ... pretty much every kind of art. I try to use all the visual languages I know, to play with meanings and ideas.
Q. How do you manage to inject so much personality and emotion into your characters?
I always try to get fun from my works; I need to work on projects that evoke emotions. I need to be passionate about the piece, and sometimes I need also to search it deeply, not only in the first appearance. I like to bring to life several levels of meaning.
Q. How long does it usually take you to create a piece, from concept to completed illustration?
The hardest step for me is to find the concept... which takes about 1 hour... 1 week... I don't know. Usually I don't "search" for an idea, I fix the question and then I wait for the inspiration to come from everything. It may come from a movie, a friend, a walk, a painting... it may need days, sometime weeks. Then... I typically need one work day (or two) to complete it, usually not more.
Q. Would you describe your work as abstract, or having abstract qualities?
Definitely having abstract qualities. I like to think i'm working between the conscious and the subconscious, between dreams and reality. I'm always searching for that fringe where abstract becomes real.
Q. Any thoughts for someone wondering how to get started in illustrations?
Illustration is a path: everyday there's something to learn. We have to develop our own styles, our own languages... try to use every chance to discover it.
Creatives, follow Federico de Luca on DesignersCouch.
