I wanted to create and design the stuff I liked. The thought of it becoming more wasn't a consideration. As my work became known globally, I realized this was something that could be BIG. To this day, my approach to design remains the same - to create simple, clever and inspiring art that speaks to everyone.
- Ryan McArthur
Who are you?
I'm Ryan. I grew up in Ontario CANADA. Went to school at Sheridan college for Graphic Design and New Media. I'm now Married to my beautiful wife and have two crazy kids.
Why did you open this shop?
I'm actually a web designer, but with all the layers of programming, wireframing, and debugging I really needed to simplify things and go back to my roots in print. Designing with just a peice of paper and pencil is such breath of fresh air.
Where do you get your ideas?
Most of the work I do is based off of great quotes. When creating I either look for inspiring quotes, or sometimes I come up with the graphic first and then match it with a quote.
Why the name Design Different?
I really had a hard time finding a name that fit and told people what my work was all about. I stumbled on Design Different and thought it was perfect. With each design I come up with I always say to my self, how can I make this different from everything else out there, what can I do to put a twist on it.
Where do you get your influences from?
Most of my influences come from traditional advertising. Creating a relation between two completely different things and making them come together to deliver a message that connects, is truly amazing to me. I want viewers to look at something and at first glance not get it, then get intrigued by it and solve it.
What's next?
Just keep coming up with more ideas. I consider myself so fortunate to be working in a field that I love. To be producing work of my very own that people enjoy hanging in their own home is truly amazing.
