010- George Ripton
In the tenth chapter of the “13th hour," we delve into a conversation with George Ripton, the founder of 13am and a multifaceted creative. With over fifteen years of experience and numerous accomplishments under his belt, we uncover the journey that led to the establishment of 13am and the inspirations behind our brand's inception.
Throughout our dialogue, we trace his trajectory from Essex to Dubai, delve into his passion for design principles, grids, and layouts, and share in the satisfaction of a creative seeing their work materialize in print. We delve into his rich professional background, including his experiences with brands such as BBC Top Gear and Tottenham Hotspur FC. Furthermore, we explore the future aspirations of 13am and learn how George transitioned from admiring street art as a junior designer in the streets of Shoreditch to enlisting these very artists into the fold at 13am. This and much more awaits in yet another captivating interview.
1 - At 13am, we aim to celebrate and showcase a broad range of creative roles, disciplines and skillsets. How would you describe yourself and your role within the creative world to those unfamiliar with yourwork?
I've been immersed in the creative industry for approximately 15 years. Beginning my journey as a Graphic Designer laid the foundation for diverse roles such as Digital Designer, Creative Director, and Illustrator. Over time, my exploration extended into video, motion, and photography, working for various agencies in London and Dubai, alongside undertaking in-house positions and numerous freelance projects. Presently, I engage in a broad spectrum of creative endeavors, encompassing various forms of expression. Primarily, I thrive as an ideas person, reveling in the conceptual aspects of design. Whether initiating a branding project, conceptualizing a campaign, or birthing a new venture, the genesis of ideas ignites my passion. Undoubtedly, these initial stages pose significant challenges for any creative mind. Yet, witnessing the fruition of an idea, as it gradually takes shape, epitomizes the most gratifying moments in this journey.
2 - Another aspect that sets 13am apart is our commitment to diversity and representation among our artists. Could you share a bit about your background and where you call home?
I was born and raised in Essex, England. For those unfamiliar, it’s just a short journey from the capital city of London, a vibrant hub for all things creative. I spent several years living and working in Shoreditch, where inspiration greets you at every turn. Renowned for its stunning array of street art, I would stroll around, admiring pieces from artists like Otto Schade. Now, we're fortunate enough to feature his work alongside many other exceptionally talented creatives at 13am. Moving forward, Dubai has become my home. I’ve resided in the UAE on and off for approximately four years. For those yet to experience it, I highly recommend a visit. Beyond the splendid weather, Dubai pulsates with innovation, creativity, and rich cultural experiences. This diversity, shaped by its eclectic population, serves as a wellspring of inspiration for 13am. Our mission is to cultivate a dynamic community of creatives from diverse backgrounds, uniting various nationalities, cultures, and ideas.
3 - How would you define your artistic style? Has it evolved or undergone any changes over time?
As a creative individual, I constantly seek to delve into new styles, trends, and techniques. The allure of being a designer lies in the ability to continuously evolve one's style, as we navigate from one brand to another, each with its unique mindset, perspective, and values. However, I strive to maintain a mindset of innovation and challenge creative boundaries whenever feasible. Rooted in a graphic design background, I have a penchant for well-structured grids and refined layouts. I place significant importance on fundamental design principles such as hierarchy, balance, and the utilization of white space, believing these elements should consistently take precedence in every project.
4 - Can you walk us through your creative process? How do you transform an idea into a tangible piece of work?
The creative process is inherently dynamic, often shifting based on the unique demands of each project and the associated deadlines. In a fast-paced working environment, creative professionals sometimes find themselves making compromises to ensure timely delivery. However, when time permits, it invariably leads to a superior final outcome.
The initial steps involve immersing oneself fully in the brand at hand, including a thorough examination of its competitors and similar entities in the market space. This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights into what works well and areas for potential improvement. Moreover, with the advent of social media and online platforms, the internet serves as an invaluable wellspring of inspiration. Platforms like Instagram, Behance, Dribbble, Awwwards, It's Nice That, and Creative Review serve as fertile ground for creative exploration.
Following this, assembling mood boards helps consolidate ideas while also offering a deeper understanding of the current creative landscape within the chosen field. Transitioning to the brainstorming phase, I prefer the tactile approach of pencil and paper, allowing ideas to flow freely and take shape organically. This stage serves as a playground for experimentation, pushing boundaries and exploring various avenues.
As a Graphic Designer, my toolkit typically includes Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, which I use collectively to respond to briefs, especially when presenting ideas to clients. However, the specific approach and tools employed depend heavily on the nature of the project and its requirements.
5 - In terms of inspiration, where do you go to find this? Who were your main influencers and inspirations as you were growing up?
As mentioned in the previous answer, the internet serves as an invaluable source of inspiration. Personally, I primarily utilize social media for work-related purposes, following accounts that consistently offer inspiration, whether from brands or individuals. Beyond the digital realm, creative sparks can ignite from various sources. Films, television, and music often serve as fertile ground for generating ideas. Yet, sometimes, simply taking a moment to unwind can clear the mind, paving the way for a fresh wave of creative thoughts.
Moreover, inspiration can strike unexpectedly—during a walk to the shop or in conversation with a friend. Collaborating and bouncing ideas off others, regardless of their creative background, can be immensely beneficial. Design is inherently subjective, and diverse perspectives enrich the creative process. Reflecting on my own journey into the world of design, I drew inspiration from a multitude of sources. Aries Moross and Studio Moross left a lasting impression with their amazing typographic work. Artists like Thierry Noir, Steven Harrington, and the viral sensation Reuben Dangoor have all really inspired me too.
Additionally, inspiration extends beyond individual artists to encompass brands in sports and music, as well as success stories. Brands like Represent inspire me with their community-centric approach and their ability to carve out a unique path in their chosen industry. These diverse sources of inspiration fuel my motivation and inform the creative direction of 13am Studio, guiding us toward future endeavors.
6 - What advice would you offer aspiring artists or illustrators looking to establish themselves in the industry?
Prioritizing kindness is a timeless principle that holds immense value, not only in one's career but also in life. Treating others with respect and maintaining a resilient spirit are foundational traits that can propel individuals toward success. Moreover, cultivating a strong work ethic and nurturing meaningful connections can undoubtedly pave the way for future opportunities.
Begin by immersing yourself in the field you aspire to join. If, for instance, you're passionate about music, consider creating self-initiated projects such as cover artwork or rebranding exercises for your favorite artists. Ensure you share these projects on social media platforms, tagging relevant brands and individuals, and proactively reach out to them via direct messages or emails. Opportunities often arise when least expected; your favorite artist might be in need of a designer, presenting you with a chance to showcase your talents.
Reflecting on my own journey, I was determined to break into the football industry. I relentlessly emailed every club in the football league, pitching my services month after month. This persistence eventually led to unpaid projects with Stevenage Football Club, followed by opportunities with my local team, Colchester United. A decade later, I found myself offered a position in the Premier League with Tottenham Hotspur, the club I support. This trajectory underscores the importance of perseverance; never allowing setbacks to deter you and always believing in your potential, even when faced with rejection.
7 - Creative roadblocks affect many individuals in our field. How do you unwind and revitalize your creative energy? Are there any hobbies or passions you pursue outside of your work?
As a few of our 13am artists have previously mentioned, it can be challenging when your hobby or passion becomes your work, as it consumes a significant portion of your time. However, despite the demands, the enjoyment and satisfaction persist, even during creative blocks and challenging moments. In fact, overcoming these creative hurdles is particularly rewarding once you emerge on the other side.
Beyond my creative pursuits, I am fortunate to have a diverse range of hobbies, primarily centered around sports. While my days of boxing are now behind me, football remains a consistent part of my routine. Shout out to Dubai Allstars here and the former glory days of Blackwater FC back in the UK, both providing not only opportunities for physical activity but also valuable social interactions.
Living in Dubai offers a multitude of recreational activities, from hiking to brunches, ensuring there's always something to occupy time outside of work. Moreover, its central geographical location presents endless travel opportunities, adding another dimension to life in this vibrant city.
8 - Reflecting on your career, could you share a standout project or collaboration that you consider a highlight? How did the opportunity come about?
With a rich agency background, I've had the privilege of collaborating with iconic brands such as McLaren, NBA, and Adidas, as well as corporate giants like JP Morgan, Apple, and Visa. However, my passion for sports has also led me to hold roles in both boxing and football, which have been immensely fulfilling experiences.
As a graphic designer, there's a unique satisfaction in seeing your work in print format. Two notable highlights for me include a series of advertorials featured in the prestigious BBC Top Gear magazine, another big shout out this time goes to David Keers-Trafford and the guys at DCT8 for some great times around that period. Additionally, designing the front cover of the Tottenham Hotspur matchday programme during my tenure at the club stands out as a memorable achievement. Interestingly, as a young designer, I had entered a competition to design the cover for the North London derby, and although my design only made it to the final four, little did I know that later in life, I would be given the opportunity to contribute to the matchday programme as a Tottenham Hotspur employee. This serves as a testament to the importance of perseverance; if you're truly passionate about something, you'll find a way to turn your dreams into reality.
9 - Can you provide a little insight into your current projects and any upcoming plans you have in the pipeline? Is there anything we should be looking out for in the not too distant future?
We have a plethora of exciting projects in the pipeline for 13am. We're on the verge of announcing and launching our new podcast series, which I'm incredibly thrilled about. Furthermore, we're diligently expanding our 13am Studio, with the number of artists set to surpass 100 in the coming weeks—a truly remarkable achievement!
However, as I've mentioned previously, 13am transcends mere art; it's a movement with a mission. We're currently laying the groundwork for the next two pivotal stages in the brand's evolution. Firstly, we're establishing a groundbreaking creative agency centered around a global freelance network known as the 13am Crowd. Through this initiative, we aim to collaborate with some of the world's leading brands, harnessing the diverse talents of our creative community to deliver innovative responses to various projects and briefs.
Furthermore, there will be the introduction of our 13am Academy, once again utilizing our one-of-a-kind network to offer pioneering courses, workshops, and online tutorship within the creative fields. The aim is to create a groundbreaking mix of creatives from various cultural backgrounds, giving everyone involved further opportunities and different platforms and markets to showcase their talent and, in turn, earn extra revenue. This is the essence of what makes the 13am collective truly unique.
10 - What has your experience been like collaborating with 13am thus far, and what motivated you to join forces with us?
Let's turn the focus around and delve into the experience of working with our artists thus far, which has been truly remarkable. As mentioned in my previous response, we are on the verge of reaching the 100-artist milestone, and each interaction has been a delight. The majority of these artists joined during phase one when 13am was still in its infancy. At that time, I was essentially pitching my vision for the brand without a strong social media presence or website, and I couldn't reveal the identities of other artists I was in talks with. Despite these challenges, I managed to convey the essence of 13am, its values, and its aspirations. Thankfully, they resonated with the artists, and I've been able to cultivate a community founded on shared values and common goals.
This journey has led to the formation of a collective of extraordinary individuals, and we are only scratching the surface of our potential. With numerous ambitious plans in the pipeline for 13am, I am eager to embark on this journey alongside these incredibly talented creatives.
11 - Looking ahead, what would be your dream project or client to tackle in the future?
Once again, I'll approach this question from the perspective of 13am. I have a plethora of artists whom I'm eager to include in our lineup. Continuously, I'm tirelessly working towards this goal as we introduce new additions on a weekly basis. Some of the artists we've already welcomed have surpassed my initial hopes and expectations. The caliber of talent at 13am is unparalleled. As mentioned previously, we already feature creatives whom I admired when embarking on my own creative journey. This instills in me the utmost confidence that we will continue to attract top-tier talent as we expand our creative horizons.
This expansion will now extend beyond our artist roster, starting with our podcast. I'm thrilled to have secured my first-choice host, and we're currently in the process of finalizing our list of targeted guests, all of whom I hope to announce shortly.
12 - To conclude on a lighter note, imagine hosting a dinner party where you could invite four individuals, living or deceased, who would they be and why?
This one's a tough choice, as I need to consider what I want to make of this evening. Firstly, I'm aiming for a night of fun, which heavily influences my decisions. As a huge sports fan, I feel compelled to include both a footballer and a boxer in my lineup. There are numerous worthy candidates to consider – from Diego Maradona, Roy Keane, Mario Balotelli, to Harry Redknapp – all promising to bring a whole bunch of entertainment. However, as a Spurs fan, a prime Paul Gascoigne would undoubtedly steal the show for me.
In the realm of boxing, the options are equally enticing, with legends like Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson capable of keeping us on the edge of our seats for a myriad of reasons. Yet, my personal choice would have to be the Hitman himself, Ricky Hatton. One of the main reasons I became a boxing fan and again another guest who’s no stranger to a good night out!
For a dash of spice, intrigue, and perhaps a hint of madness, I'd invite John McAfee. After recently watching 'The Dangerous Life of John McAfee,' I've come to realize that chaos seems to follow him everywhere, making his presence at the dinner party an absolute whirlwind.
Lastly, to inject some humor into the mix, I'd extend an invitation to SnowyDanger, South London's finest. While perhaps lesser-known compared to the other guests, SnowyDanger promises barrels of laughter and good vibes, making him a wildcard addition that's sure to liven up the evening.
13 - If you were granted the power of time travel, which historical event would you choose to witness firsthand, and what intrigues you about it?
Yet another challenging question. In keeping with the sporting theme thus far, there are a few standout moments. Travelling back to 1966 to witness England's triumphant World Cup victory would undoubtedly be a highlight. The good vibes and pride sweeping the nation would be an unforgettable experience. Additionally, a journey back in time to witness Tottenham actually securing a trophy would be nice too, haha!
I think the true intrigue lies in witnessing humanity's firsts. The first time someone sketched a picture, the inaugural spark of a man-made fire, the revelation of cooking food for the first time—these are the moments that ignite my imagination. From the first telephone call to the first of video call, observing these milestones and the reactions of those involved would be incredibly fascinating. I'm curious about the blend of planned innovation and accidental discoveries that shaped our history.
Imagine the crazy moment when a bird first encountered a plane or when humans encountered mad creatures like elephants and giraffes for the first time. Witnessing these encounters and the array of emotions they evoke would offer a unique glimpse into our collective past.