In an effort to foster relationships and create dialogues with the creative forces that inspire us, “We Are Each Other” is an on-going series that spotlights designers in various design disciplines. These in-depth interviews and essays showcase our belief that we are all extensions of a larger artistic community, inspiring and motivating each other to new heights of imagination and innovation.
As Farewell to Arms’ former frontman, audience members would witness the frenetic Justin Smith swing, throw, and scream into the microphone in one frantic moment, then drop into a dead calm the next. Its no wonder why his design work reflects his explosive personality. Today, Justin slings type around like a gunfighter in the Wild West.
Who are you and what do you do?
My name is Justin Michael Smith, I am a freelance graphic designer and I live in Brooklyn, New York.
Selected Work
5 typefaces that you are currently digging right now
Berthold Akzidenz Grotesk
ITC Caslon No. 224
ITC Reporter No. 2
Lineto Le Corbusier
Lineto Typ1451
4 books that inspire you
Outliers: The Story of Success by Malcolm Gladwell
Of the Malcolm Gladwell books that I have read, Outliers has been the most eye opening. This specific work reinforced ideals that my parents instilled in me; if you work hard, you will be successful.
Paul Rand: A Designer’s Art by Paul Rand
Paul Rand has a great eye for composition and this work especially illustrates his genius and humor.
printed matter \ drukwerk by Karel Martens
Although this monograph was designed in two months, it is filled with timeless design with great color and composition, a must own for any graphic designer.
Think & Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
I am a fan of self-help books for many reasons, I believe they aid in discipline, determination and life strategy. Think & Grow Rich is a book my father and his father read and is filled with stories of ambition and success.
3 people you admire
Bob Dylan
Jerry Seinfeld
Karel Martens
2 things you want to do before you die
Own a house with a study / library
Write a book
1 motto you live by
Just Do It.
To view more of Justin’s work please click here
Interested in being featured as a spotlighted artist in our new “We Are Each Other” series? Or do you know someone you think we should spotlight? Drop us a line at waeo<‘at’>theretrospective.com!
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“slings type around like a gunfighter in the Wild West” – great line, sir! Also, a house with a study sounds perfect.