Independent graphic designer José Torres talks us through his studies, some of his serious design crushes right now, and how having the ability to express yourself and be recognized by your own graphic style is an important skill to have.
Any hilarious stories about you as a kid being creative?
I recently realised that when I was younger I had the necessity of personalizing my toys, such as cars and trucks with some homemade stickers. I also love flags since I remember, there is something about them that keeps me attracted, so when I was younger I use to paint some flags on toilet paper. Insane I know.
Where did you study and what were some of your first jobs?
I never liked regular school, I used to be good at arts and physical education.
Graphic Design came at me first when I went to a professional school in Lisbon (ETIC), at that school, it was the first time I felt completely happy about studying something. After that, I went to college (ESAD-CR), which I never finished because I was already doing some parallel works for some local gigs/parties. At first, I didn't have clients so I started to organize some parties for friends with the excuse to do the posters for it.
Who are your top five design crushes globally right now?
Right now I have some serious crushes.
Querida Design Studio, Tres Tipos Gráficos, Bráulio Amado, Studio Degrau and Studio Pyramid are some of them.
Not necessarily in this order.
What qualities and skills do you look for in a graduate?
One of the most important thing for me as a graphic designer is the ability to create, express yourself and be recognized by your own graphic style. Don’t follow trends mate.
One of the most important thing for me as a graphic designer is the ability to create, express yourself, and be recognized by your own graphic style.
2019 for you in a sentence.
Keep growing as a professional.
How does the local culture of where you live affect your design work and getting clients?
As we speak, Lisbon is becoming more fashionable and this brings a sense of gentrification that makes me itchy. I think that this shatters in me a need to create and participate in projects with clear messages and concrete goals. I do not want to be part of this Lisbon disposable, however, the line is often blurred. Basically what I mean by this is that I have become more ideal, political if we want, as to the kind of work I want to do. However, I also have to eat. It is a constant struggle.
Where to find José Torres online.
Website: cosmvs.com
Instagram: @cosmvsportorres
