Interview with the winner of Derby 8
You probably first noticed Goelzjs when he submitted "Take It Back" (shown on right) in Derby #3. Since then he has won twice, coming in first with his "Pirate Penguin" on the last derby. Here's more about him and how he creates his cool shirts.
Woot Stats? (first derby / years on woot / # bags of crap)
3rd / n00b / 0. Shirt.woot was brought to my attention during the first derby, which was “One.” I loved the idea and knew I would want to be a part of the submission craze. I made and entry for the following derby, “Heat” but my incomplete dead polar bear was never submitted, although other similar ideas surfaced later that week. My first official submission was “Roadmap For Peace” during the “Maps” derby, and it was instantly rejected for being off topic. Later that week I submitted my first entry that would make the new hotness list: “Circuit Board USA.” (It’s official name was “Take It Back.”)
What are you tools of choice?
Photoshop,
Illustrator, Lightwave 3D. I have a
Wacom tablet, but it only helps with carpal tunnel.
What is your typical process for going about a design?
My designs are usually concept heavy and less artistic, so the hardest step for me is brainstorming. I usually talk though my ideas with co-workers or my girlfriend and they help me focus my inspiration into something more tangible. I then do most of my work in Illustrator and use Photoshop as a finishing tool.
What design or art experience do you have outside the derby?
I got my undergrad degree in Media Art and Design and minored in 3D animation. I currently work as a Broadcast Artist / Multimedia Designer for a television production company.
Would you like to do art/design full-time? If so, what is your dream job?
I DO love to do art/design full-time. My dream job includes any job that favors a creative environment. Where else can I capture my co-workers on hidden camera embarrassing themselves?
Any plans to sell your designs outside woot?
Yes. I am currently in talks with another online vendor who is interesting in publishing and selling my designs.
What advice do you have for new derby artists?
Never get comfortable. Always challenge yourself to stay creative, and surround yourself with inspiration.
