The retro aesthetic is a popular trend in current design, and Dan Matutina’s illustrations inspired me. I researched his work and found his work, Versus/Hearts, inspiring. Matutina co-founded and ran a design firm in the Philippines, producing short films, advertisements, and lamps. He is a self-taught designer and illustrator, with a bachelor’s degree in visual communication from the University of the Philippines College of Fine Arts. He was initially interested in the arts, starting as a designer in college. Matutina’s work in fashion design and his ability to create short films and advertisements showcase his unique approach to the industry.
One of my favorite trends in current design in general is the retro aesthetic, and I came across Dan Matutina when looking for illustrations with that style. It didn’t take me long to start clicking on each of his published projects, researching him, and switching between design platforms (and yes, I tell you, his outstanding works and web color schemes are all over the web). So I made the decision to research his approach. Versus/Hearts was one of his inspirational works, and in the interim, he co-founded and ran a design firm in the Philippines, produced short films, advertisements, and lamps. which I think is clever. I spoke with him in an interview as a result.
Do you have any formal training in design or illustration? Is this a must for going into design as a career?
I obtained a bachelor’s degree in visual communication from the University of the Philippines College of Fine Arts. Photography, graphic design, illustration, video, and editorial design were just a few of the “commercial” visual arts subjects included in the course. It is not necessarily required. Self-taught designers and illustrators are very common.
How did you get into fashion design? What led you to this decision?
When I was in elementary and high school, I was already interested in the arts (and other fields). I started drawing and making comic books when I was little. I suppose you could say I was curious about the creative sector. I started off as a “designer” while I was in college. My initial love was movies, but at the time it was very difficult (and costly) to make movies, so during my free time I worked on a lot of graphic design and illustration projects.
One of my favorite trends in current design in general is the retro aesthetic, and I came across Dan Matutina when looking for illustrations with that style. It didn’t take me long to start clicking on each of his published projects, researching him, and switching between design platforms (and yes, I tell you, his outstanding works are all over the web). So I made the decision to research his approach. Versus/Hearts was one of his inspirational works, and in the interim, he co-founded and ran a design firm in the Philippines, produced short films, advertisements, and lamps. which I think is clever. I spoke with him in an interview as a result.
Do you have any formal training in design or illustration? Is this a must for going into design as a career?
I obtained a bachelor’s degree in visual communication from the University of the Philippines College of Fine Arts. Photography, graphic design, illustration, video, and editorial design were just a few of the “commercial” visual arts subjects included in the course. It is not necessarily required. Self-taught designers and illustrators are very common.
How did you get into fashion design? What led you to this decision?
When I was in elementary and high school, I was already interested in the arts (and other fields). I started drawing and making comic books when I was little. I suppose you could say I was curious about the creative sector. I started off as a “designer” while I was in college. My initial love was movies, but at the time it was very difficult (and costly) to make movies, so during my free time I worked on a lot of graphic design and illustration projects.
You both live and work in the Philippines. Do you think there is enough room in the market for designers like yourself? Do you ever think that there could be better prospects elsewhere?
The Philippine creative ecosystem is very young in compared to western countries. Its youth makes it very lively and vibrant. I consider myself privileged to have a role in shaping the creative atmosphere. I have several possibilities to work globally thanks to commissions from many brands and businesses and my representation. I get to see firsthand what it’s like to work with businesses that aren’t located in the Philippines. Despite this, I’m not entirely excited about the prospect of working abroad.
I am aware that you are now working on a number of projects and that you are an entrepreneur in addition to being a designer and an illustrator. What use does this serve for you? What is their point of equilibrium?
Haha. I appreciate my job so much that I am always involved in a variety of activities. It is what keeps me going. I will keep doing both as I equally like design and illustration. In order to improve my trade, I also think it’s crucial to concentrate on a variety of side projects. I use the sculptural and airbrush mediums to test out new methods. It’s exciting to try new things.
What was the customer project that you found the most pleasurable to work on?
Wow, this is challenging since I enjoy working with my clients. The Natural Resources Defense Council’s most recent commercial caught my attention. This was the first time my illustration has ever been animated. In addition, working with the Giant Ant members was a delight.
I can’t help but ask about your distinctive logo.
It is a stylised version of your Behance profile photo, as I saw. Does it have a backstory or did it just come to you that way?
Haha. Yea. I’m the only one dressed like Totoro from the animated movie “My Neighbor Totoro” by Hayao Miyazaki.
I thought it would be fun to take a picture of myself wearing my friend’s Totoro hat because I’m a great Hayao Miyazaki fan.
What pointers do you offer for designers looking to go from freelancing to starting a company? What ought they to keep in mind?
You must constantly handle yourself properly if you wish to start your own studio or business. It doesn’t mean you won’t have fun anymore; instead, you should figure out how to make it last over time.
What are your long-term goals? What concepts are you thinking of creating?
I’ve been working on a book in addition to client work. Designer, artist, and business owner Dan Matutina. I really want to finish it soon. I only have to finish the illustrations and the writing.
For further information
You can check my website
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