Sezio

Justin Skeesuck's design has influenced San Diego's creative culture more than you may know. Numerous album covers, event posters and even this fine website bear Skessuck's meticulous eye for detail.

Sezio: What do you enjoy about doing design work for musicians?
Justin Skeesuck: I enjoy the challenge of putting a "face" to something sonic. Most of my upfront time is interviewing the artist/band to get a general overview of where the music is coming from. It's easy to design something pretty, it's another to design something that truly conveys all of the emotions from the artists point-of-view. Besides, it also gives me a chance to hear the album before anyone else.



SZ: You were once a band mate of Greg Laswell, tell us a funny Laswell story.
JS: Well, there are too many that I can't disclose, however, we once opened for Switchfoot and Greg was asked (for some reason) to do a comedy routine before the show. He bombed, I mean bombed... not even a laugh! Let's just say he didn't do it again.

Socal Fires 2007 Poster Relief Project - 2 Color Screen Print

SZ: How do you balance your design work with creative projects?
JS: I basically have to squeeze them in when I can. I'm a huge proponent of just doing it. I know it sounds basic, but when you're busy trying to survive, and being a father and a husband, time can slip away quickly. I just make a conscious effort to work an hour here and an hour there.

SZ: How have your physical limitations affected your work ethic or personal drive?
JS: Well, being permanently disabled and in a wheelchair definitely has its challenges, but I don't let it stop me. I've always had a strong work ethic and a high patience level which is how I was raised. It may take me a lot longer to get something done, but I get it done. I've been fortunate to have a wonderful wife and good amount of friends to help out when I need it, so I'm grateful for that.



SZ:Why do you take pictures?
JS: Well, I started doing photography a few years back. It all started for me when I saw a piece by Arnaud Mercier & Intransient called "anything & everything" about lomography which is basically shooting "from the hip". It absolutely turned me upside down. Lomography helped me break the barrier by just trusting my eye. It's a great release valve for me creatively since my day job is pretty much dictated by my clients needs. It allows me to just let go and see what comes out.



SZ: Best breakfast in San Diego?
JS: Mario's in downtown la mesa. Absolutely the best carne asada and eggs you'll ever eat.

Justin is currently showing his print and design work in the Adapta v. Sezio series at Cream Coffee Bar in University Heights. (until Dec. 10th)

You can also view Justin's design work here, or his flickr page here.