David Carson is a living legend. He shattered design norms and redefined typography, influencing generations of non-conformist artists driven by the DIY (do-it-yourself) ethos of the grunge movement. From his groundbreaking work at “Ray Gun” to collaborations with major brands who dares to challenge their own polished status quo, he has worked his way to become a global symbol for graphic design. We’re thrilled to also call David, a friend of State.

Carson's conquests extend beyond the printed page, with influential collaborations that have left an indelible mark on the corporate landscape. Brands like Nike, Pepsi, Microsoft, and MTV have all entrusted him to wield his typographic wizardry in their advertising campaigns. With each stroke of his design brush, Carson unleashes a visual storm that captivates and confounds, defying the conventional wisdom of marketing gurus. His multidisciplinary approach blends art, craft, collage, and typography, pushing the boundaries of what's possible. 

Prepare to delve into the mind of a true trailblazer, where rules are meant to be shattered, and creativity knows no limits.

How did you get into design? Was it something you always knew you'd pursue?
Design is a second career for me, I have a degree in Sociology. Only in my mid 20’s did I find out what Graphic Design was, but it has worked out really well. To find something you really enjoy and that doesn’t feel like work, is to be really lucky, and I feel like that, I feel I work on my hobby. So don’t worry if you haven’t found your career yet, maybe it will also be your second career. Some people think it's too late but that’s just how it went. So hang in there! It’s coming! Probably when you least expect it.

Who are your biggest inspirations when working on a project?
Inspiration is always within the project. Researching, it's my starting point. It’s not in stock photos or online, the answer comes in the brief. If you manage to understand the client's needs, you’ll never run out of ideas.

How would you describe your style?
Experimental, intuitive, and personal. As for me, I never received any formal education, and I believe that's actually been beneficial because I wasn't confined by knowledge of what I shouldn't do. Instead, I just used my own intuition to guide me and define me.

What does an average day in your life look like?
No real formula. Go surfing, start planning trips that are coming up, wait for some feedback, take a walk, do some exercise, get on the move! I don’t have a big separation between work and play. It all comes together. As I said, I made a living off my hobby so I always have fun. 

Personally speaking, do you prefer working alone or in groups?
I’ve always been really independent and it's what works for me. I’m into collaboration.  If you are an intuitive designer, but you always rely on someone else’s eye. Then that needs a lot of confidence in the person. In terms of design direction, I prefer to do it myself. I think that’s part of the field of graphic design. At  some point you isolate yourself and play your favorite music and you do what feels best to you given the parameters of the projects. 

What's the most important advice you've ever received?
I’ve been fortunate to have clients that want something more experimental, and that’s the best advice I was given, “Push yourself and go out there!”

What are you working on right now?
It’s a huge rebranding that’s been taking a lot of time for a Japanese company. I can’t really say much because it's not out there but it's working out great!


What advice would you give to aspiring designers?
Bring your uniqueness, be passionate and follow your intuition. Trust your gut, listen to that! Have fun working, show a lot of ideas, get your feedback, and do something you’re happy with following parameters. Only you see the world like you can, so show this to everyone!