Though CFYE traverses the digital globe in search of talents in the most obscure corners of the deep web, we try not to forget about the local talents. We’re always happy to receive a message from local talents like the fantastic Dutch illustrator Leendert-Jan de Ronde (LJ). LJ works on illustration projects and easily crosses over to fashion, product design and branding. His strong visual style makes that he never loses any of his usual swag.
As LJ is just taking his first steps outside of the art-academy (after successfully graduating) he has his mind set a 110% on working as an illustrator and designer. LJ: “”I already had some jobs during internship times, but It’s nice to leave school and be able to fully focus on working as an illustrator and designer. And with, loads of plans for the future!”
For a young talent, LJ has a surprising love for old-school. In his studio he works surrounded by beautiful books, posters and vintage objects. “The desk is usually filled with papers, sketches and ideas. But sometimes I leave the studio with a pen and a sketchbook to get some fresh air and to get distracted.” LJ explains.
Inspired by his surroundings and experiences he creates fantastic patterns on some objects we wouldn’t expect them on. “I love to work on projects in which the drawings are produced into some kind of product. For instance the Arabic scarf was made after a two-months-internship I did in a Tunisian Gallery. I designed a pattern based on my experiences in that Arabic world, and the design I for sale in the local gallery now. Usually the free projects I do have some personal source.”
In the introduction I mentioned that Leendert-Jan his visual style is very strong and it seems he barely waters it down in his commercial work. “Of course every project needs a different approach, but I always try to work in some kind of the same signature. And indeed, to me It doesn’t really matter what kind of project that is. However that signature is still developing and maybe will always be.”
As is tradition, we asked LJ the question: ‘If you could fill a swimming pool with just about anything, what would it be?’ and again, the eagerness of a young talent shines through: “If water is not allowed, I would maybe go for converting the empty pool into a cool studio or sports park. It would be really cool to have your studio based in a space like that, including some awesome slides. Perfect for taking a break and have some distractions.”
Though LJ can’t make a living out of his freelance work yet, he’s working towards it with great ambition. “I’ll be working on commercial projects and jobs, but apart from that I’ve a lot of plans on work to do and organise myself as well. I’d love to work in a combination of commercial work and self-initiated projects where I’m more working more as an art-director and designer.”
Expect great things! http://www.ljderonde.nl/