How Breath Controls Paint Detail

Craig describes using breath (not tools) to finesse paint blends, why hairdryers and straws failed, and the physicality of his process.

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On this episode of The Futur Podcast, Chris Do talks with Scottish visual artist Craig Black about what it takes to reinvent yourself, embrace fear, and build a thriving creative career around your own unique style.

Craig’s journey spans professional football, typography, and ultimately his signature “Acrylic Fusion” technique—a paint-pouring process that’s landed him collaborations with UEFA, FIFA, and Porsche. But behind the global recognition is a story about personal risk, self-initiated projects, and betting everything on his art.

Together, Chris and Craig unpack:

How to pivot when your first career path fails
Why personal projects can lead to global clients
The strategy behind launching at the right cultural moment
Building a family-first lifestyle studio without compromise
Using fear as a compass for growth

This episode is a masterclass in reinvention for creatives, designers, and entrepreneurs who feel stuck and want to break through with their own voice.

See you there! https://max.adobe.com/?cgen=7RZ35VGK&mv=other

Timestamps

(00:00) - Intro (00:19) - How Acrylic Fusion was invented (01:44) - Porsche Taycan project: car as a canvas (03:49) - Process hacks: breathwork vs failed tools (08:43) - Leaving football to pursue creativity (14:44) - The teacher who saved Craig’s career (20:49) - Designing Rangers FC’s jersey typography (24:12) - Quitting typography to pursue fine art (31:22) - Fusion Footballs launch at Euro 2020 (36:53) - Taking risks with little financial safety (39:20) - Three essentials for creative breakthroughs (44:32) - Running a family-first lifestyle studio (47:38) - Final lesson: fear leads to growth

Check out today’s guest, Craig Black: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/_craigblack/⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigblackdesign/⁠ Website: ⁠https://craig.black⁠ Shop: ⁠https://craigblack.shop⁠ Fusion Footballs: ⁠https://craig.black/projects/fusion-footballs⁠

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