INTERVIEW
Introducing Jesse Auersalo
We're excited to welcome illustrator and creative director Jesse Auersalo to the Grand Matter family!
Jesse has been working across a broad range of sectors in the industry and is always excited about being introduced to new areas of collaboration. In his progressive approach to illustration, Jesse plays with unusual colour palettes, shapes and textures embracing creative exploration and spontaneity, resulting in beautiful images with an uncanny and surreal edge.
We spoke to him about his influences and how experimenting with new dimensions through surrealism leads him to create new art that feels very unique to him. We also discussed what he likes to illustrate and the areas he gravitates towards when working on a new project.
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My work can be described as surreal or it might have a psychedelic quality, but generally I just simply enjoy experimenting with my illustrations.
– Jesse Auersalo
Where do you get inspired to produce a new illustration, who are your biggest influences?
Recently I’ve been drawn to imagining these uncanny events where metaphysics could be turned into something visual, so when creating new work, I’m usually exploring ways to convey this idea.
“IkeN”
“Fallen Angel”
You often refer to your own style as 'surreal' or 'psychedelic', what are you most interested in when experimenting with your work?
My work can be described as surreal or it might have a psychedelic quality, but generally I just simply enjoy experimenting with my illustrations. Like how scientists get excited about a newly invented microscope or x-ray. However this imaginary lens that I’m looking through isn’t exposing bacterias and organs but instead a new kind of dimension.
"Happy Head II”
"Bug Fight"
Your illustrations explore forms, colour and texture in a distinctive way that feels very unique to you, how do you go about that?
I like to mix ordinary things together with something otherworldly. I also play with unusual choices of colour, shape and texture. I prefer progressive working methods that leave room for exploration, improvisation and failure. As long as the execution is grounded on a well prepared idea the process should stay on safe ground.
"Kanye”
"Midas"
You’ve worked with a broad range of clients. Do you gravitate towards particular areas when working on new projects?
Good illustration should be diverse and capable across all cultures and industries, just like good fashion, music and branding does. When I take a call I don’t hesitate stepping out of my comfort zone. I’m a progressive type of person and always excited to get introduced to a new area to collaborate.
"Selfwear"
"Substitution"
What’s your favourite piece in your portfolio and which projects have really stood out for you in the last couple of years?
I got a commission by Red Bull Music Academy for a mural design.I have a background in graffiti so it was a special moment to see the piece coming to life in New York where it all got started.
"Red Bull Music Academy New York"
About Jesse Auersalo
Jesse's beautifully crafted illustrations explore figures, forms, textures and abstract compositions, with an uncanny and surreal edge. Working across a broad range of sectors his clients include Ninja Tune, Maison Margiela MM6, The New York Times, SHOWstudio, Apple and many more.
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