Jason Munn
I discovered this interview via Dave from grain edit, who send me an email with links to rare type specimens/design books that he publishes on his blog. Here are some samples:
Jason Munn, the creative force behind The Small Stakes, has carved out a unique niche in the world of graphic design. Known for his minimalist, thought-provoking concert posters, Munn has worked with some of the biggest names in music, including Radiohead, The Shins, and Wilco, as well as cultural institutions like the Criterion Collection and the New York Times. His work is instantly recognizable: clean lines, bold colors, and clever visual metaphors that distill the essence of an artist or event into a single, striking image. In this interview, we delve into Munn’s creative process, his influences, and the evolution of his career.
Contents
The Origins of The Small Stakes
Jason Munn’s journey into the world of design began in the late 1990s. After studying graphic design at California College of the Arts, he found himself drawn to the DIY ethos of the indie music scene. “I’ve always been a music fan,” Munn explains. “When I started making posters, it was a way to combine my love for design with my passion for music.” In 2002, he founded The Small Stakes, a studio dedicated to creating posters that were as much works of art as they were promotional tools.
The name The Small Stakes reflects Munn’s humble approach to his craft. “I wanted to emphasize the idea that even small projects can have a big impact,” he says. “It’s not about the scale of the work, but the thought and care you put into it.”
The Art of Minimalism in Design
Munn’s style is defined by its simplicity. His posters often feature a single, powerful image or symbol that captures the spirit of the band or event. “I try to find a concept that resonates with the music or the artist,” he says. “It’s about distilling something complex into something simple and immediate.”
This minimalist approach is both a challenge and a reward. “When you’re working with so few elements, every decision matters,” Munn notes. “You have to be intentional about every line, every color, every shape. But when it works, it’s incredibly satisfying.”
One of his most iconic posters is for the band The Shins, featuring a birdcage with an open door and a bird flying away. The image is both literal and metaphorical, evoking themes of freedom and escape that resonate with the band’s music. “I wanted to create something that felt hopeful and uplifting,” Munn recalls. “The Shins have a way of making you feel like anything is possible, and I tried to capture that in the design.”
Collaborations and Creative Freedom
Over the years, Munn has collaborated with a wide range of artists and organizations. His work with the Criterion Collection, for example, has allowed him to explore his love of cinema. “Designing for Criterion is a dream come true,” he says. “Their films are so visually rich, and they give me a lot of creative freedom to interpret them in my own way.”
Munn’s process often begins with research. “I spend a lot of time listening to the music or watching the film,” he explains. “I try to immerse myself in the artist’s world and find something that feels authentic.” This dedication to understanding his subject matter is what sets his work apart. “I want the poster to feel like it’s part of the artist’s story, not just an advertisement.”
The Evolution of a Career in Graphic Design
When asked about the evolution of his career, Munn reflects on the changing landscape of design. “When I started, the internet was just beginning to have an impact on how we share and consume art,” he says. “Now, social media has completely transformed the way we connect with audiences.”
Despite these changes, Munn remains committed to the tactile, physical nature of posters. “There’s something special about holding a poster in your hands,” he says. “It’s a tangible piece of art that you can hang on your wall and live with every day.”
Looking to the future, Munn hopes to continue exploring new creative avenues. “I’m always looking for ways to push myself and try new things,” he says. “Whether it’s working with different mediums or collaborating with new artists, I want to keep evolving as a designer.”
Advice for Aspiring Designers
For aspiring designers, Munn offers this advice: “Be patient and persistent. It takes time to develop your voice and find your niche. Don’t be afraid to take risks and make mistakes. That’s how you grow.”
He also emphasizes the importance of staying true to yourself. “There’s a lot of pressure to follow trends, but the best work comes from being authentic,” he says. “Find what inspires you and pursue it with passion.”
The Enduring Impact of Jason Munn’s Work
Jason Munn’s work with The Small Stakes is a testament to the power of simplicity and the enduring appeal of thoughtful, well-crafted design. Through his minimalist posters, he has created a visual language that speaks to the heart of music, film, and culture. As he continues to evolve and explore new creative frontiers, one thing is certain: Jason Munn’s art will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for years to come.