Pet Liger
Inspired by Manga, video games and late 20th century comics, motion graphic designer Pet Liger designs from scratch to enrich the soul.
What are some of your favourite words?
My Favourite words tend to be ones that I haven't had the opportunity to use before, at the moment "viscosity" seems to be making the rounds.
What first drew you to motion graphics?
It has been an evolution. First there was drawing/sketching as a child, then music production in my late teens/20s, then it was photography/video and now 3D. Motion Design ties everything up nicely. I guess the next step will probably be something "real-time" related using tools like the Unreal Engine.
In your practice, what is most important to you to try and communicate?
I'm not really trying to communicate anything. My main goal is learning through discovery. It's a bonus when others see the possibilities of my explorations.
What influences the concepts you choose to work with?
There are multiple factors that contribute to the influence. The limitations of my knowledge regarding the technology I’m using, the media that I'm absorbing, other artists and how they inspire me to push myself. Although, at the end of the day, it's always about the process. That's the biggest influence: sitting down at my computer solving problems.
Your most recent project involved designing sneakers, and before this typography. What most often inspires you to start a new project?
I've been doing these daily renders for over 400 days now. So, I'm constantly looking for challenges to keep me busy. The typography was for the “36 days of type challenge” that happens yearly, that was fun. As for the sneakers, I just love product design. It's so much more rewarding than using prebuilt assets in a render. Designing something interesting from the ground up feels good for my soul.
I think with motion graphics, the viewer has a stronger sensory experience, it is like entering into a new world – different visuals, different sounds. How would you describe the relationship between your work and your senses?
I think this is a very important relationship. Stimulating the senses is key to great art. That is why I try to trust them. Letting them help me and guide me. Also knowing that the line between senses and emotions is often blurred. So sometimes reining them in, controlling them and focusing them in a clear direction is vital. It's almost like, a dance. Give and take.
Going through your work online, colour seems to have gained a stronger role over your different projects. What have been key aesthetic influences for you?
Lots of trial and error coupled with some understanding of colour/design theory. I push myself to iterate as much as possible, when it clicks it just clicks. If it doesn't work then that's ok too, I've learned something new. In terms of specific aesthetic influences, I grew up on a lot of Manga, video games and comics from the late
80s through to the late 90s. I used to read Manga Mania magazine when I was 10ish years old. I still have those mags and dip into them from time to time for some inspiration.
If your work was scented, how would it smell?
Currently I would say a mixture of sweet berries, citrus and metal works.
These turbulent times bring struggle for creatives. What is the best or most influential piece of advice you have ever received for nurturing your creativity and career?
You will do it bad at first but keep at it. With time you will improve. Be consistent and regular, have a routine. Keep banging out the work and let the world see it. Allow others to join you on your journey.
What’s next on the horizon for you?
Will keep doing my everydays.
Learn some new tech.
Start using VR.
Make AR filters.
Make my footwear designs a reality. 🚀
courtesy PET LIGER
interview KATE BISHOP
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