Ibrahim Zemheri
Tell us a bit about yourself, your background and your work
I was born and raised in Turkey. I have always enjoyed creating something since I was a kid. When I was in high school, I decided to pursue a creative career. I got into an animation major in university. I was fortunate to start off my career as a freelance creative early right after my second grade. After graduating I became a digital artist working in advertising field as a designer, animator and motion designer. I enjoy doing both 2D and 3D stuff, my work mainly has been a design-driven storytelling through animation so far. I also love trying and experimenting different styles. I have had the pleasure of working on so many great projects.
What set you off as a digital artist and graphics designer?
I think, It came from a very young age. I enjoyed art classes more than any others during my schooling. So I have always been into arts especially the digital arts.
How would you describe your approach to design?
I always start with defining the problem it could be questions like 'what I want to create, How to create something with this tool or technique?...' Then start searching for inspiration, I usually bounce a lot through sketches and I use lots of art platforms to get inspired, sometimes I ask the people around me to get their idea and then start developing and execute.
Describe how you make your work? Is there a clear idea of how each work will look from the beginning?
I use some digital programs to create both design and animation. It includes pretty much every necessary software named like Adobe After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator, Cinema 4D. I also enjoy creating sketches on a paper before jumping into digital.
Well, if It is a project for a client, I always start with creating a mood board (an inspiration board) regarding the brief. It can includes pretty much anything like textures, words, pictures, illustrations... So that it helps for me and the client gathering some ideas and inspiration. It can make it clear at the beginning by getting both sides agree on the look.
Was there another form of art that inspired you before you started using digital resources?
Yes, I always get inspired a lot by my surroundings, movies, quotes, murals, buildings and books.
Who or what has been the biggest single influence on your way of thinking?
We all get influenced by everything to sort out our way of thinking, It is an inevitable everyday practice. But for the most I would say, Mom! She is the greatest influence on my way of thinking and my approach to anything.
Describe the trajectory of your career as a graphics designer and digital artist so far
Well, Loving exploring and experimenting a lot in digital art got me into this game. I have been very fortunate to work with the awesome folks along the way since my school days through both freelance and internship opportunities as a designer and animator. Although I have got into animating for the most part, I have always looked for a room as a designer as well.
What are you passionate about besides your work?
I am passionate about so many things like from food to movies. But I would say, self-improvement, fitness and helping others are the main ones besides my work.
What advice do you have for other digital artists?
I think, It is a great practice for every artist to put yourself and your work out there, say I am here! Be confident and work hard to get better at your craft and be nice enough to support each other.
