We had the good fortune of connecting with Jordan Burnett and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Jordan, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
You can have what you want, but work with what you got.
My mom said that to me once and it stuck. I’ve always had a carefree mentality when it comes to what and how I create so when she told me that, it gave me some defense for any new pressures of being a perfectionist. When I see others with more money and resources creating content at a higher level, it doesn’t stop me from making for myself but it can be discouraging at times but, hence the quote. I just keep that with me at all times for that extra support.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Design
I love being hands on. I’ve kept illustration close to me so I’ve been able to use that in design as a signature on top of what could be a computer generated carbon copy of whats already out. The thing I’m most proud of recently is maybe the 2022 J Balvin / Guess collection. I was able to draw and create most of the prints and graphics so it was more fun than previous collections we’ve done with him. I also got the chance to create some cut and sew pieces for Guess Originals which is a background I don’t come from, but I love and appreciate fashion so I made it work. I got here by going back to school. Not saying that’s everyones road but that’s how it worked for me. I went to Otis College of Art and Design to get my BA in Graphic Design. Once you graduate they hook you up with internships and companies are always taking in interns so I was able to stay with my company until I could work full time.
Music
I can figure out notes and write a mean melody, but I can’t sing for shit. I had to figure out how to make it work because unfortunately I love to sing. I could’ve committed to singing lessons from the start but I talked myself out of it because I sounded good enough for me – and I was able to work with what I had so, no need! But really I should have… I’d probably be a lot further than I am today. The silver lining is throughout all the grueling trial of error of finding my own voice is – I eventually found it. I always tell myself, if I could sing, I’d probably be lazy, making trendy music anyway. Because my voice was difficult to work with, I had to find more creative ways to make it work. I look at it as a positive – how I had to go through the ringer of ‘making my voice work’. Now, I’ll be getting lessons to refine what I’ve already mined so I’m excited for this next chapter in music.
All around, I love to make things that are simple and strong but also enjoyable to look at and listen to. The art I makes usually comments on life subtleties and the world around us – especially parts people don’t see much beauty in. The music always come from a personal place, mostly my thoughts and feelings but sometimes other peoples stories, but always personal. It ends up being a nice balance for me – the art is light hearted, the music is deep.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Well, L.A. is a huge city with many cities and cultures inside of it. I think it boils down to the kind of money you want to spend really. That will dictate what we’re doing. Just the reality of the city. But honestly you can find anything you want out here. The food scene covers a ton of cultures which is probably what I’d focus on. Italian, Mexican and Japanese are some of my favorites. I’d also take people to Silverlake and West Hollywood. I go back to both of those places the most so we’d end up at some bars around those parts. There’s great live music in both areas, so if my guest is looking for a show we’d hit those same areas up. For a beach fanatic we can head over to Santa Monica and stay all day. They also have everything you need as far as variety in food and bars. It could go on and on, I think I’d just have to leave it up to whatever my friend was into and then I’d make a list around their interest. There’s nothing you can’t find here.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Music
My dad and brother have always been extremely supportive, whether it’s praise for something they love or positive constructive feedback. My dad also sends me random text that contain words of affirmation and things like ‘…everything you want is here for you as long as you stick with it’.
My mom as well for passing down enough talent for me to be on this journey. She’s supportive with the music as well but content is not for her so she support from a ‘I love you regardless’ standpoint… haha
Design
Mom gets a lot of the praise here. I’ve been drawing since I was a kid so she put me in art school early and kept me there all the way through high school. So my success in design outside of my love for it, is completely dependent on my mom. She found the right programs and school to help me grow consistently.
I’ve been able to work for some pretty big artist and companies so she’s a big part of that.
Website: www.jordanburnett.com
Instagram: yojrdn
Linkedin: Jordan Burnett
Youtube: Mav Rose
Other: Spotify / Apple Music / Soundcloud – Mav Rose
Image Credits
Gilbert Ortiz