Design Matters with Debbie Millman Best of Design Matters: Oliver Jeffers
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Jul 29, 2024 Oliver Jeffers, a multi-disciplinary artist, shares his creative journey spanning painting, illustration, and bookmaking. He discusses his new book, Begin Again, which addresses humanity's impact on Earth and poses the question, 'Where do we go from here?' The conversation touches on the transformative role of art in shaping identity, the balance between personal expression and market trends, and a fruitful collaboration with U2. Jeffers highlights how art fosters connection, particularly in children's stories, and the challenges of adapting books into films.
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Learning from Sargent's Ears
- Oliver Jeffers learned to paint by studying John Singer Sargent's portraits, particularly his ears.
- He admired Sargent's ability to create lifelike features with just a few brushstrokes.
Discovering Art's Power
- At nine, Jeffers discovered art's power when asked to design a school play set.
- This gave him purpose and a way to avoid other subjects, recognizing art's real-world application.
Art as Currency
- Growing up in a segregated Belfast school, Jeffers's art became a form of currency.
- The tough kids sought his artistic skills, which inadvertently gave him a degree of social protection.