The one artist that could not be missed at the event was the Antwerp-based Eltipo. He’s known for the large artwork he made for Bombay in front of the Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Antwerp, and he recently also co-designed a special glass with the famous gin brand. We got the opportunity to share a drink with Eltipo and ask a few questions about his work and career.
How would you describe your approach to design/art?
My work is strongly based on typography. Typography is a visual representation of language and therefore can evoke different emotions. I try to find a connection between the artwork and the viewer and translate a certain message. This can be a phrase, a word, or just letters. Most recently I’m exploring the boundaries of legibility and even going further away from letters, where these become abstract elements to create a certain atmosphere.
Who or what has been the biggest influence in your career as a designer/artist?
As a child, I grew up in my father’s car body shop. At this young age, I observed him working with his hands, doing everything on his own: fixing mechanics, dent repair, painting, etc … It’s this hands-on mentality that stimulates me to create new things and be independent.
