Name: Gabby Klein / gab art & design
Where do you live? Phoenix, AZ!
Why do you create?
I can’t remember a time in my life that I didn’t want to create. From entering coloring competitions in local magazines at age seven to graduating with my Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design this year, the creative juices just keep flowing. If I had to narrow it down, the reason I create and design is to connect with people. Through inhabitable space or two-dimensional art or even a written phrase, I want to create in a way that makes people feel understood.
How do you bring art into your everyday?
I try to incorporate some form of sketching/doodling/painting into my daily routine. It keeps my skills fresh and my mind working! Aside from that, lots of music and random singing.
What gets you super excited about life?
My dog. I rescued Quincy a year and a half ago and he has significantly changed my perspective on life. He wakes up with uninhibited excitement for the day and has such a curious and loyal heart. His morning cuddles always get me excited for the day ahead :-)
Do you have a favorite artist? If so, who and why?
I do have a favorite designer who I would consider an artist of sorts. Alvar Aalto, native to Finland, was one of the first architects/designers to prioritize occupant wellness. His projects take influence from the landscape of Finland using beautiful, yet simplistic shapes, and organic materials (peep the Savoy Vase or Viipuri Library for example). Concepts of minimalism and well-being have both been constant within my art and personal philosophies.
What’s your favorite place to get inspired?
Sometimes I just need to get outside and lay in the grass to get inspired (when it’s not over one hundred degrees). As ‘millenial’ as it sounds, Instagram has been a great resource and inspiration to me as far as finding other independent artists locally and internationally. Aside from digital content, I have a wonderful collection of design books that never fail to get me excited (examples include Sensual Home, The World of Charles and Ray Eames, and Herman Miller: A Way of Living, among others.)
What inspired the design for your Standard Wax Label?
I did a few iterations of art that I thought would look fun, but the chosen piece embodies the essence and simplicity of a candle altogether. Most of my favorite self-care moments have involved at least one candle lit in my apartment, offering a warm ambiance and relaxing aroma. We all need a reminder every now and then to take care of ourselves, especially now. I hope this candle can offer simplicity, joy, and be your reminder to pause and take care of you :-)
What’s something unique about your work that people won’t see anywhere else?
I have explored a few styles of illustration, but I always come back to the minimalist line drawings with selective color. I use a palette of colors that are inspired specifically by the mid-century modern design movement, and I incorporate my background of interior design into my art as well, making it especially authentic.
Favorite City? Copenhagen, Denmark. No questions.
Favorite Restaurant?
Right now, Cornish Pasty! It’s a local spot with incredible fresh food and a pretty low-key pub/bar atmosphere. Of course, I’ve been supporting them with takeout orders quite often these last few months.
Favorite Museum? Tate Modern, such heavy architecture that somehow provides the best neutral slate for all types of artwork.
