Meet Story Spark

Alex & Sun

Tell us where are you from and if that impacts your work?

We’re from the Pacific Northwest (Alex) and Orange County, California (Sun), but honestly we’ve been living in the greater Los Angeles area long enough that we just consider ourselves SoCal natives at this point. It’s definitely affected our work in the most amazing way. You don’t think about it on a day-to-day basis, but in hindsight we can definitely see the California influence.

The warm weather and diverse cultures that we experience year-round certainly guide the messages and products that we create. Our primary offerings are lightweight graphic t-shirts that are both convenient and comfortable to wear in Southern California. Additionally, our proximity to the entertainment and technology industries has given us an eclectic and future-focused approach to life, which in turn influences the mashup between art and tech often seen in Story Spark designs.

Who/what are your biggest artistic influences?

There are quite a few sources of artistic influences in our work. Thought-provoking, minimal, and quirky art always catches our eye. We look at so many different types of artists, from graphic designers like John Maeda, Saul Bass, and April Greiman, to fine artists like Jeff Koons, Yoshitomo Nara, and Joe Sorren. We’re also inspired by contemporary design and architecture icons like Frank Gehry, Alexander McQueen, Betsy Johnson, and Charles and Ray Eames.

How do you define success as an artist?

We believe that the purpose of art is to connect with others. The essence of human communication lies in telling a message or story, which can be conveyed through a variety of mediums, especially art. Therefore, true success in art is achieved by making an impact on someone's life and giving them that "aha" moment that can shift their perspective and understanding of their own belief system.

Does your art help you in other areas of your life?

Art has an invigorating power that enhances our lives. There are times when we feel unmotivated and down with what we're currently doing - some may call it a blue period, or the ebb and flow of entrepreneurship. Running a small business is no easy feat, and finding creativity when you’re not feeling inspired can be incredibly difficult. But during these times, looking back on our past creations and remembering the spark we felt in creating those designs definitely pulls us out of that funk. Even old pieces of art can provoke new thoughts and emotions, which lead to gained inspiration. Art always provides the spark that ignites our stories and actions.

How have you developed your skill at your craft?

Much of the improvement in our craft comes from work experience. We’ve found the best way to learn is just to do. Experience can be the best teacher. Although the process of creating a new design from a concept is never the same (and does not seem to get any easier), more practice and experience lead to more efficient techniques. Certain pitfalls, such as poor color choices and line weight limitations, are now easier to detect and avoid than when we first started.

What is the hardest part of your creation process?

This is perhaps the easiest question to answer! The most difficult part of creating is being able to generate new ideas. 100%. As our portfolio of designs has grown, it has become increasingly challenging to develop something that is not only new but also meets our high criteria for quality.

How has your style changed over time?

Our style has undergone a transformation over the years, becoming more intricate and refined. Our approach to creation is deeply rooted in art, technology, and pop culture, which means it’s as constantly changing as the mediums we use. We draw inspiration from these fields to craft our unique creations and thus are always looking for new and exciting ways to express how we see the world as it changes around us.

What’s the best thing about being an artist?

Being an artist has given us the opportunity to do something that we love, which is creating and sharing new stories and ideas with others. It has provided us with a channel to express our thoughts and creativity in ways that satisfy our inner selves. What we’ve also discovered is that Story Spark has pushed us into becoming creative entrepreneurs, which challenges both the left and right sides of our brains each and every day.

What’s your favorite item that you’ve created, and why?

Oh, it’s so hard to pick a favorite! We’d have to say one of our most beloved Story Spark creations is "Boooost," also known as the "Rocket Sloth." This original design features a sloth with a jetpack meant to inspire people to charge forward and blaze their own path. Despite any preconceived notions or self-doubt, it's important to set your sights on the finish line and be ready to surpass your goals. We love the irony of this visual graphic and the positive message it conveys for those who wear it. Plus, the sloth’s silly expression always puts a smile on everyone’s face.

What do you love most about Pasadena?

The people, indefinitely! Every person we have met at the Jackalope Artisan Fair in Pasadena has been friendly and open-minded, and willing to hear the thoughts behind each of our pieces. This willingness is very humbling and encouraging for us to keep going. It’s a sense of community and interest that feels very unique to this area. We can keep going with more reasons to love Pasadena, but definitely the people!

Catch Story Spark on April 29th & 30th at Jackalope Pasadena!

Web: www.storyspark.com

Instagram: @storyspark