SELF DESTRUCT STUDIO

Craig Scott is a Dunedin-based designer and artist who founded Self Destruct Studio as a creative outlet to continually experience, create and just be weird.

Tell us a little about what you make.

I create screen printed and hand painted garments, as well as cards and prints. Screen printed works are created with hand cut paper stencils, and the inks are mixed so the colour way always comes out different - making each piece unique. Left over ink is used to create abstract painted works on garments. Cards and prints are mix of illustrated and digital collage.

What was your creative journey like, what led you to being a designer/maker?

I have always been doing something creative, I remember as a kid I would redesign album covers of the cassettes I had. I studied Communication Design at Otago Polytechnic, and while there completed an internship at Tūhura Otago Museum, which led to casual work while I studied, and a full-time job when I graduated. 17 years later I'm still there, leading the exhibition and design department.

I created Self Destruct Studio in 2017 as an outlet to continue my creative practice outside of a work setting.

How would you describe your design aesthetic/identity and where do you find your inspiration?

I would say it is quite efficient. Having a full-time job, there is a limited window to create for myslef, so if I have an idea, I usually need to get it our straight away. I don't find myself pondering or working on an idea, it normally has to be fully realised and completed within the same day.

I find a lot of inspiration from music and pop culture, where I like to make a cheeky nod to things in particular pieces of work, whether super obvious or more of an inside joke. 

Do you have any advice for other makers and budding creatives?

I think as long as you have a good eye for detail and there is an intention behind what you are making (whether if it is for yourself or someone else), then you can't really go wrong. There needs to be an element of self-awareness too to know when to park an idea that isn't quite right. My favourite quote at the moment is from Addison Rae, that "taste and choice is a luxury".

What is the best part about being involved in GUILD?

The collective and supportive nature of a network of designers and makers is probably the key element to what makes it work so well. I always say you never make any money because you are always buying something beautiful from one of the other creators! But at least you then own lots of nice things!