Interviewing a Creative Web designer

Jaguar XP is dedicated to extreme Jaguar performance and styling. A web site where they sell high end jaguar parts  and accessories, where the owner is also the very creative web designer.

 

Chris Minassian

Www.jaguarxp.com

 

Picture of a Jaguar from the Jaguar Xp Web Site

 

 
1.Do you think that creativity is part of human nature
or is it something that must be nurtured and learned?

 

I think that it is a bit of both. For the most part I think that creative individuals are born that way. They generally see the world in a different way and are usually less confined by rules. With that said I think that this perspective also needs to be nurtured. I think this usually happens naturally. Creative people are more likely to have hobbies or jobs that naturally exercise their abilities.


2. What made you decide to follow a creative career
choice (though possibly risky) rather than something
more stable?

 

I strongly believe that your career should reflect, and make use, of an individual's unique skills. Given that thought, designing and manufacturing Jaguar accessories was not only enjoyable, it was profitable. I examined the market and saw that my personal skills and knowledge put me at a great advantage. Seeing it from this perspective made the decision to pursue this career easy


3. What is your inspiration? How has personal
experience influenced your creativity?

 

I mostly draw inspiration form other manufacturers, which often times are my competitors. This inspiration is actually what led me to attempt and succeed with my more difficult projects.

I think the more you try (actually do it), the better you become at seeing the problem from a different angle. When I conceived a new project I spend plenty of time planning, but get you to a point when you just have to take a shot at it and see how it comes out.


4.What is your favorite creation? Please explain why
you selected this one.

 

When I first began my business I contracted with a company to create a mesh grille for a Jag. The company completely messed up the project and could not finish. To make matters worst, they used the wrong mesh material for the grille and left me with the unfinished units. I finally realized that with a few alterations and a different mounting system, the incorrect mesh could be used and would look even better than what was original designed. Today I still use this new design and it is very popular.


5. What do you wish to accomplish with your art?

 

I think I simply want to continue making new designs and transition my development in a way that will allow me to make better use of my personal skills. I think the future of my work will be more computer based design and development.


6. How do you know when a piece or project is finished
and needs no additional work?

 

A project is never 100% perfect. However, deadlines, budget, materials, and capabilities do dictate when a project is finished. Sometimes you just have to get the product out and begin making some sales before you have the luxury of going back and improving to the point where you are truly satisfied.


7. Have you ever been faced with negative feedback?
How was this reflected in your work, if at all?

 

I do get negative feedback on occasion. Often times it is already pertaining to something that I know needs to be improved, or could be improved. I am a very tough critic and so when I know a product is done well, then usually the feedback is very positive.

 


8. What impact do you think that commercialism and the
media has had on your work? Is this good or bad?

 

Commercialism is part of the business. If you know how to work with it then it can be very beneficial. However, that sometimes means that your project can be exactly what you want it to be.


9. Are you a fan of cartoons? If so, what is your
favorite one?

 

I don't watch cartoons too much, but I like the family guy.


10. What is playing in your CD player/Ipod right now?

 

I mostly have upbeat and energetic pop / rock music for times I am able to get to the gym.


11. If you had to be any of these things, which would
you like to be?
a) a member of the opposite sex, b) a clock, c) a pair
of shoes, d) a duck

 

Out of those choices I think I would like to experience being a duck. They seem happy and relaxed. Most of the ducks I see are usually just floating around and looking for food. Being able to fly is also a plus.


12. If you only had 24 hours to live, how would you
spend your day?

 

 I would spend the day with my friends and family. Tie up loose ends and make sure that those that rely on me are taken care of. Finally wrap it up with a party and a few drinks