Meet Matt Kirner | Graphic/Apparel Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Matt Kirner and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Matt, what are you inspired by?
I’m inspired by those who work hard, and consistently reach the highest heights of their medium. I try to work with and surround myself with others who pride themselves on their work ethic, and commitment to making incredible work. Also, I’m constantly inspired by those around me digitally as well as physically. In terms of general inspiration, I get inspired by everything from cool signage or logos I see while I’m driving or walking around, to things that come up in daily conversation.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’d like to think what sets me apart from others is my commitment to delivering not only a quality product, but also something that resonates with me, every time. I’m not letting go of something until I know that if it was sent to me, I would be excited to receive it. That has its drawbacks, as every other perfectionist would tell you, but a healthy amount of quality control will always yield great results. It was/is definitely not easy, but I don’t think it would be worth it if that wasn’t the case. As a freelance designer and someone who also works in the industry you face challenges every single day – deadlines that need to pushed, ‘final versions’ that are about 2 or 3 tweaks away still. You just have to roll with the punches and accept that art is subjective, and that it’s about aligning your vision with the vision of your client. My brand is all about perspective – both gaining it and leveraging it to create art that is unique to my story. Nobody on this planet can tell your story better than you, so why not take advantage of that?

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?
I love a good flea market, so we would have to hit a few if the schedule allows. First one we’d hit is the Melrose Trading Post, amazing finds and some great food as well. That whole area is really dope and home to a lot of dope stores, so definitely staying on Melrose/Fairfax for a bit to explore. We would also make the trek to the Rose Bowl in Pasadena to hit the flea market there. It’s like nothing I’ve ever seen – just the sheer amount of vendors at that flea market is lowkey overwhelming, but it makes for such an incredible experience. You can find anything from vintage furniture to jewelry to one-of-a-kind thrifted clothes. And we definitely gotta grab a pupusa to snack on while we roll. If I gotta take them to my favorite restaurant in LA, we got two options – one that won’t break the bank, and one that is an experience. Option 1 is Takatis, which is a Peruvian spot on Van Nuys. They have the BEST rotisserie chicken and the BEST sauces. My order is a 1/2 chicken with rice and plantains, you cannot beat that honestly. Option 2 is Perch, about 13 floors up in a building right in the middle of downtown LA. They have some of the best views of the city I’ve seen since coming to LA, and the food might be the only thing that tops it. Incredible, incredible French cuisine. My order there is the braised short rib, some roasted brussels sprouts on the side, and a cocktail. That sounds like a fire week to me.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My friends! I wouldn’t be here without the support of those around me, whether its hiring me for a project, or just showing love on Instagram. The people around me are who inspire me to level up in my craft, every day, in every medium I choose to pursue. When sharing my story with others, I find myself constantly referencing milestone events that included my relationships with friends also in the entertainment industry, and it just reminds me that my hard work and dedication is never in vain.

Website: fromrohnertpark.com

Instagram: @fromrohnertpark

Twitter: @fromrohnertpark

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUUvl6HOJSNj8PfS56QMUyQ