Today we’d like to introduce you to Eliot Flores.
Eliot, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Music has been an important part of my life; from being a member of a few garage punk rock bands to design flyers for basement gigs. I was an adolescent who was obsessed with nothing but music & comic books…and always having a blast with it. So when the time came to decide what I was going to do with my life I chose Graphic Design mainly because it was the closest thing to being a ‘comic artist’.
On those days I was unaware of the so-called ‘freelance industry’ but It was after I discovered the work of ‘Hydro 74’, an Orlando-based graphic artist (with clients such as Nike, Adidas & ESP) that I learned that one could actually make a good living as a full-time freelance graphic artist. After being mesmerized and inspired by his work, I decided that I wanted to be, in some way, like him.
Building clients was the hardest part since I was just getting started and I didn’t have any experience or any full developed skills. So I spent 3 years working low-paying jobs while learning new techniques during breaks. The only that kept me going through the hard times was my attitude and passion in learning. In the end, I think that’s what brought me here.
On a sunny day of may of 2008 an Art Director from a very important agency contacted me and asked me to create graphics for the band ‘Avenged Sevenfold’, and that was pretty how it all started; What I thought It was going to be a ‘one time thing’ turned out to be a big snowball full of more exciting projects.
For more than 7 years I’ve had the honor to create graphics for bands and artist I grew up listening to, earning their respect and from their art directors and management. The fact that I can do what I love for a living, motivates me to push the boundaries even more and to keep a passion for learning. Like I said it, I think that’s what kept me through the years.
Has it been a smooth road?
When working for the music industry you are aware of the tight deadlines, since it is a very fast industry.
I’ve spent a ton of sleepless nights, I’ve missed a lot of parties and social events while dealing with briefs and projects, bills and taxes. Of course, coffee helps., and in the end everything is worth it!
What are some of the influences that have played the biggest role in your journey so far?
I always say that, If it weren’t for Ted Mattes, an art director from a very important merchandise company, I wouldn’t be doing what I do now. He believed in my work back when no one else did. Also, Charles Dooher, vice president from another very important merchandise company, has been like a mentor to me, entrusting me with such fascinating projects and even recommending my work with other companies. But all in all, the art directors which I have had the pleasure to work with during this 7 years. I always learn from each project; from new techniques to different trends and everything in between.
What type of clients or projects do you look forward to most?
I would LOVE to work for the film and video game Industry. There’s something about those posters/covers from the late 80s, early 90s. And since nostalgia is making his way back, I’m pretty sure that kind of art will be in demand. (just look at the ‘Stranger Things’ Poster)
Also, I would love to do some more album artwork. I’ve had nice experiences by doing so.
What have been some of the most important lessons you’ve learned over the course of your career?
I would take some finance courses. When I got my first ‘fat’ check, I spent most of it on things that didn’t last.
Now I try to save and invest.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://manifester.com.mx/
- Email: info@manifester.com.mx
- Instagram: manifester85
- Facebook: manifesterstudio
