Original artwork by Mat Maitland
Collage. One word that could take many of us, designers, back to the glum, yet glorious, art school days (or should we say “daze”?). 2012: having been comfortable enough with the idea that 12 years ago a new century actually began, collage is often thought of as an introductory practice into the art and design worlds, and not as a career booster. While collage making is a rather playful craft, it remains within the realms of that term—a craft, a hobby, with a somewhat juvenile undertone. Looking over Mat Maitland’s work, however, is sure to not only put your experience with collage to shame (because let’s face it, none of us were truly that good at making collages), but also to second guess what you think you know about modern crafts and the way they redefine design.
Not your typical collage, that's for sure
Maitland says his passion, since an early age, has been album cover design. Yes, a bit unusual, and very ambitious. At 15, the middle school drop out decided to dedicate his life to his passion. While many may raise an eyebrow or two at adolescent dreams of this kind, in Maitland’s case tenacity has definitely paid off. His designs (or compositions, rather), as I see it, are on the verge of pure aesthetic brilliance. Those are the kind of artworks you would want to print out and frame, and then have your friends comment on.
Mark Ronson's "Record Collection", design by Maitland
I was originally exposed to his carefully crafted work though Goldfrapp; a UK-based musical duo that is known for their (as far as I’m concerned) great upbeat Electropop tunes, and also, as a design enthusiast, their beautiful album covers and artwork. Alison Goldfrapp, front person, has been considered a fashion icon for almost 10 (!) years now. As my exploration of Maitland’s work progressed, I realized more and more that, with much jealousy, he has established what in the future will be probably known as modern/commercial collage making, through his designs and independent work alike. Don’t shrug at the word commercial, I beg of you. Instead, let his work speak for itself. Finally, visit his site and his Tumblr, which he updates regularly with inspirational album covers.
Breathtaking. "Head First" by Goldfrapp
Artwork for Sneaky Sound System
A tad bizarre at times, always mesmerizing
Maitland has worked with Goldfrapp for quite some time now.
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