Tell us more about the story behind “The Advice Tee.”

The advice tee idea came to me after seeing parents interact with their kids. Offering advice and trying to steer them in the right direction. Then it occurred to me that we live in a society that constantly offers us advice. Like “Eat this, exercise here, do that, be this and look like her” etc etc. It got me thinking about what advice is really necessary and what is total bullshit. Then I realized that a lot of advice is actually bad advice and some advice we get from our parents is questionable. It went full circle really.

Tell us a little about your process in designing a piece like this.

All my designs start with a doodle. They start as an idea that I then try to tie together visually. In this case with colored blocks and shapes. I usually do a rough sketch and then tweak it in illustrator. Sometimes I scrap whole pieces if the flow is wrong. I like the eye to wonder around a T-shirt and discover new details. If the flow is off it needs to get binned. This design went through that. I also like to add little humorous things within the design, I hope people spot them.

We’ve been seeing more and more young artists citing Wotto as a major influence on them. What’s that like for you?

It’s flattering and nice to know I am influencing new artists. It makes me blush. I have to say though there is a fine like between “influence” and “rip off”. I think if people are influenced and encouraged by what I do, great. If they like my style to the extent that they too want to use it directly then we may not remain friends for long. I will release the hounds. Haha, I hope new artists will see it takes years of hard work and determination to be a success in this cut throat industry. If they see that in me then I am very happy.

What music do you listen to?

All sorts. Right now I am listening to a the Donnie Darko soundtrack and The Smiths. Tomorrow I will listen to something completely different. I have a lot of music and I listen while I draw, which is all the time.

Any links you want share?

I have recently released some new tees in my own shop and I guess this is an opportunity to plug that: http://www.wotto.bigcartel.com

Also everyone should watch this: http://vimeo.com/5214935
One of the best animations I have ever seen. So dark and inspiring.

I am also a member of the BRC (Black Rock Collective) and rumour has it we will be releasing something new soon, keep em peeled.
http://www.blackrockcollective.com

Anything else?

Obviously a huge “Thanks” to Tilteed for another tee print, you are always a pleasure to work with.

Also a big hug to my awesome wife who has pushed me to be where I am today.

*I sound like one of those blubbing idiots at the Oscars