Interviewed by RJ Allen, 10th March 2021
We love new blood.
There's something about a new staff member that energises the whole studio - and our Creative team has just seen another addition. The life of a 'creator' is a constant struggle between the fear of a blank canvas and the euphoria of an idea. They need to work through those moments of self doubt and uncertainty. They have to struggle, slog, sweat, and fight to bring that perfect idea to life. Ideas need nurturing; and coaxing concepts into something solid and real, that helps grow a business is really no easy feat. So without further ado, our newest team member and idea-coaxer; Mossy.
So Mossy, first of all tell us who you are, and what makes you tick ?
To almost everyone I know inside and outside of ‘The Shed’ my name is Mossy. But I am also known as Luke. I’m a Senior Creative here at Potting Shed. I’m a sucker for live music, records, computer games, football, UFC, Quentin Tarantino films and I take a photo or two in my spare time.
When did you join our Jersey studio and what has the transition been like ?
I joined the Jersey studio in January this year. In the year leading up to that, I was previously working as a Freelance Designer and set up my own business. Before that, I worked for a couple of Jersey-based design & advertising agencies. The transition has been really smooth and I feel as if I’ve slotted in really well. I’ve always kept an eye on the work PS has produced down the years, so to now be part of the team is something I’m really proud of.
Have you always wanted to work in the creative industries? Stumbled into any other professions en route?
For my sins, I did work in the Finance industry in Jersey for 7 years after I left College. I’m still not entirely sure why. I’ve always been a creative person, drawing from a very young age, as soon as I discovered Photoshop in school I was gripped and it’s pretty much the only thing I desperately wanted to do in some shape later on in life. I did some home learning classes in both Graphic Design and Web Design before taking a bit of a leap of faith and left behind my role in Finance to go to University and study Graphic Design & Advertising. At the time, I remember a lot of people telling me that I was mad (some of that is still true) but it just felt like the right thing to do and felt like the only way I would be able to scratch the creative itch I had.
Which creative endeavour has most stood out to you in life? (Art, films, music, florists, architecture - any medium)
I’d have to say music really. I listen to a wide range of genres and not a day goes by where I’m not listening to something whether it be a new band, classic album, interviews, podcasts, or a new recommendation. I think music and design go hand in hand and I’m always trying to understand everything behind it, why the song was written, what the album concept is, who made the album art, what inspired them and I think I take that into some of my design inspiration too.
Name the first place you’ll be flying to when restrictions are lifted, and why.
Manchester, hands down. I’ve always seen Manchester as a second home and have been going there from a young age due to having family there primarily but then I just started going to more and more gigs, football matches, weekends away, etc. When I went to University there I got to see what the city was all about on a daily basis. It has a great energy about it, always something happening and it’s become a great creative hub for music, art & design. The history of the city speaks for itself.
When facing creative block, what gets your wheels turning?
As hard as it sometimes seems to do, I think just putting the tools down for a bit and getting some fresh air, going for a walk, cycle, swim or surf can really give you a change of mindset and a different energy. It’s easy to get bogged down with things you find challenging and I’m probably the worst offender for just wanting to get something done once I’m into it but breaks at the right time are very important.
How can creativity change the world?
I think that looking back at the last year which has brought some challenging times for all, creativity has constantly been used as a very powerful tool to bring people together, inspire, communicate, collaborate and challenge people. Using creativity to challenge yourself whether it be through art, design, music, or whatever you are into can be very cathartic. So I guess it’s already out there changing the world as we speak.
If you had the power to erase history - what inanimate object would never have existed?
Trump Tower. There’s just no need.
What inspires you?
I’m still constantly inspired by a lot of things. I’m always trying to find inspiration whether it be browsing online, flicking through books, magazines, album covers, booklets, posters, finding new music, films, anything really. I think the main thing for me is finding something I like and then trying to figure out how it was done and once I’ve figured that out I use those techniques myself to create something... but obviously make it better!
Which (design) briefs get you twitching with excitement?
Any branding job gets me excited. I see it as a great opportunity to try new things or push something in a new direction. Sometimes it can be something completely different from what a client was expecting but then you take it on a journey and it all comes together, and before you know it it’s the only direction you ever wanted it to be taken in.
Lastly, and most importantly - if you could scale any insect to the same size of a bear, which insect would you choose to win that fight (and why)?
That is an important question… Taking on a bear is going to be a pretty tough fight. I’d go for a Praying Mantis. Those things look intimidating even at the size they are, so if it was the same size as a bear I think we’re on for a pretty epic battle. The fact that Praying Mantis often eat their own species says it all really.
Read our Shed Sessions with Silvie, Tom, Al, Tabitha, Keelie, David, and RJ.