Alex Cherry, or VHM-Alex, is an incredible graphic designer based out of Los Angeles. His art takes a grungy, stencil style and encompasses everything from political messages to interpretations of his favourite music.
First up, How did you get into graphic design? Did you start with computer design, or have you always been interested in drawing/design?
I’ve always had an interest in illustration. It didn’t work out terribly well for me though, as I found that I could only copy other people. In 2000, a friend gave me a copy of Photoshop 5 and it all took off from there, I started with typography, moved onto web design, photo manipulation and now sort of back to illustration… I’m self taught, but I still don’t know exactly what it is I’m doing.
Where does most of your inspiration come from? I noticed a lot of your work is inspired by Tool songs. Is is mainly music that drives your art?
Music is my primary inspiration. Everything else is secondary.
If you had to choose a favourite artist or designer, who would it be? Conversely, is there a particular artist or style you dislike?
Maybe John Berkey? His artwork has always influenced me, and until his death recently, subconsciously. Same goes for Ralph Steadman (except I’m pretty sure he’s alive). More recently, Banksy and James Jean have made some amazing stuff, although I think a lot of people have caught on to that.
I don’t "like" or "dislike" any artist or style, but am definitely frustrated with the over saturation of anything (in other words, current trend). Ironically, that seems to be happening with the style I’m exhibiting in a lot of my own work. It’s an ego check when you realize just how dated and extremely insignificant your work may be, but I also think it’s important to remember that’s not the point.
Is graphics and art a big part of your life, or just a side project?
It definitely started as a side project, I can say that much.
When you start on a piece, do you plan it out beforehand (taking pictures, scrap drawings etc.) or do you just design whatever comes to your head at the time?
I almost always have an idea, or a specific theme for a piece, but a lot of it is improvised. My only rule is: If it looks good, it works.
Thanks for your time.
More of Alex’s work can be seen on his DeviantArt profile, or at OfSoundAndVision