ART DIRECTOR, LRXD, DENVER CO
As a Colorado native who doesn’t ski or snowboard, Brian Son had ample time to contemplate the natural beauty of the landscapes that surrounded him. The LRXD Art Director began drawing at an early age and progressed into ceramics in high school. As he approached graduation, he realized he wanted to incorporate creativity into his further studies. After receiving a graphic design degree, Son started working at an ad agency and realized the possibilities that a design career offered. He collaborated with automotive, hospitality and educational brands, and this breadth of clients provided insight about the processes and methods of different industries. After years of learning, Son believes he’s found his true design passion ‒ branding and packaging. Since claims are progressively more regulated, designers must use the space to convey a brand’s identity and attributes, not cram it full of hyperbole. This allows the focus to be on the story and presentation itself. “Regardless of new advances with technology, true design has a heart of art, and it’s the vision and audacity of a passionate creative that makes it happen,” Son says. “It’s honest and pure, and that’s a beautiful thing.” Sounds a lot like those majestic Rocky Mountains.
WHERE WERE YOU BORN? WHERE DO YOU LIVE NOW?
Born in Denver and 30 years later, still call this city home.
DID YOU GO TO DESIGN SCHOOL?
Art Institute of Colorado
LEFTY OR RIGHTY?
Righty, not for the lack of trying to be both.
MORNING PERSON OR NIGHT OWL?
Morning person outdoors; night owl indoors.
LAST BOOK YOU READ?
The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman, amazing author.
FAVORITE MOVIE?
Inside Out
FAVORITE FINE ARTIST?
Tagliapietra
FAVORITE FREE TIME ACTIVITY?
Lying in the grass, sun on my face, watching clouds go by
WHAT’S THE LAST COMPLIMENT YOU GOT?
I like your shirt.
COLOR USED MOST OFTEN IN YOUR DESIGN?
Pantone 432C
TYPEFACE USED MOST OFTEN?
DIN
DO YOU HAVE A DESIGN MENTOR OR INSPIRATION?
Inspiration is Scott Hansen a.k.a. Tycho, a.k.a. ISO50.
GREATEST STRENGTH/WEAKNESS AS A DESIGNER?
Greatest strength is my constant need for perfection, which can also be my greatest weakness.
ADVICE TO A YOUNG DESIGNER JUST STARTING OUT?
Keep at it, stay inspired, and find the right place for you to do it.
IF YOU WERE NOT A DESIGNER, WHAT WOULD YOU BE?
Something with animals
A MANTRA OR SAYING YOU LIVE BY?
Enjoy it. Because it’s happening. (from Perks of Being a Wallflower)