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I THINK WE’VE BUILT IT UPSIDE-DOWN

Artist Interview: jlefkowitz

Resident Tee Nerd Statement

Honestly, I don't see what all the fuss is about. You wanted something grand. Something no one could see without being in awe. Well, I think we covered that crap, didn't we? This is a marvel of architecture, sir. We're not quite sure how this happened, but you cannot pretend that we have not shown we were up to the task and then some. So hold your aspersions. We stand behind our work, and if you are going to get hung up on things like "stability" or "doors," that is your own damn problem.

Welcome to Tilteed! Please share a little bit about yourself with the class!

Hi, I'm an illustrator based out of Berkeley, California. I graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design in 2005 and I've spent the last six years working as a freelancer for a wide range of magazines and newspapers. Virtually all of my business is editorial work but tee shirt design is a very enjoyable side project.

You've done some pretty high profile work. What were some of your favorite projects? How does your "professional" side differ from your "leisure" art?

It's always fun to work for a big name like the New York Times or Rolling Stone but it can be just as much fun to work for a great art director at a smaller publication who's willing to give your riskier, less expected ideas a chance. To be honest, every piece of art I do these days is a professional piece in some sense. When I do work for myself I use it as a laboratory to experiment and to hone my professional techniques. In that way, I dislike the distinction between professional and personal art because in both I'm working with my own vocabulary and trying to articulate my particular vision.

If you could have built any building, preferably right-side up, which would you most like to have been your own, and why?

Despite the theme of my shirt, I'm not actually a huge architectural buff but I do have a weakness for all things mid-century modern so I'd probably have to go with something really Jetsonian like the Chemosphere house. Google it.

What is your favorite animal to draw, and why?

I really enjoy bulls. They have very striking profiles and give you a lot of interesting shapes and proportions to work with.

By this point in September, pretty much everyone still in school is back in classes. If you were to go back for a degree in anything other than art, what would you want one in?

Probably history. Or poly/sci. I've always loved learning about how systems function and how they came to be as they are.

I want to see more! Where can I see more?

Your enthusiasm is flattering. If you'd like to check out my recent work, just browse on over to my website jesse-lefkowitz.com. You'll also find links there to an archive and my shop.

Any final gems of inspiration?

Work hard at something you love and don't let the Man keep you down.