Spencer Gabor

Brooklyn-based designer and illustrator Spencer Gabor has made a name for himself with a unique style that has drawn the interest of brands from NPR to Skullcandy. In a recent discussion, Gabor, who possesses both business insight and creative talent, shared his journey, aesthetic, and design philosophy.

Gabor's foray into design was anything but traditional. A former finance student in business school, he experienced a life crisis that led to the realization that a career devoid of creativity was not his destiny. This awakening prompted him to self-educate in the Adobe creative suite, Procreate, and other design platforms. Through a series of iterative portfolios, he refined his skills, eventually reaching a professional caliber that unlocked opportunities for his current success. "The process was painful," Gabor admits, "but it was also some of the most fun I had in my career, and I now have a business degree to boot."

Gabor's aesthetic is a dynamic fusion of expressive figures and vivid colors, with a unique ability to convey emotion through non-traditional faces. His style has matured over time, incorporating more textures and techniques, reflecting a growing depth in his artistic expression. "I find myself adding more textures and techniques into my work," he notes, indicating a continuous evolution in his creative approach.

New York City, with its kinetic energy and diverse influences, serves as Gabor's primary source of inspiration. "The energy, outfits, people, buildings, etc.," he says, "is really a great place to draw inspiration from." This urban dynamism is evident in his designs, which often mirror the pulsating life of the city that envelops him.

One of Gabor's most cherished projects to date was a campaign for Skullcandy headphones, where his illustrations were not only featured in a limited supply run but also helped set the "mood" for assets across various channels for an entire month. The project was especially significant to Gabor as it focused on mental health awareness, a subject that has always been central to his work.

For design resources, Gabor looks to a trove of vintage materials, including Graphis Annuals and ADC Awards from the 70s and 80s, as well as modern sites like It's Nice That, Under Consideration, and Pinterest, ensuring that his work remains cutting-edge and current.

To emerging designers, Gabor advises, "Make sure your work keeps YOU excited before worrying about whether others like it." He emphasizes the importance of personal passion and creativity, cautioning that without it, designers may lose their drive and the spark that initially drew them to the field. Gabor's advice serves as a reminder that the impetus to create must come from within, and it is this inner flame that sustains a career in the ever-evolving landscape of design.