In the latest installment of "The 13th Hour," we sit down with Klaus Kremmerz, a nomadic illustrator whose self-taught skills have garnered attention for their comical and cheeky flair, often conveyed through felt-tip style illustrations. Drawing inspiration from underground American comics of the 1960s, Klaus weaves clever narratives into his distinct and striking artwork.

Our conversation with Klaus delves into his family's artistic heritage and the mysterious origins behind his nomadic lifestyle, now rooted in Milan. We explore his unique perspective on the value of art, arguing that true artistic worth transcends the artist's lifetime and should not be solely determined by contemporary standards. Among Klaus's notable projects, we discuss his collaborations with renowned brands like Hermes and Huawei in China. His admiration for Leonardo Da Vinci as the "Greatest genius mankind has ever had" adds a layer of depth to our exploration of his creative journey and accomplishments. Join us in this captivating episode of "The 13th Hour" as we unravel Klaus's career and gain insights into his unique story.

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 your work?

I would say it's storytelling inspired by the American underground comics of the 1960s.

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 live in Milan but grew up a little bit everywhere. I have an artistic background and am a child of art; my mother is an artist herself

3 - How would you define your artistic style? Has it evolved or undergone any changes over time?

It has evolved over time, and I hope it will change even more in the coming years.

4 - Can you walk us through your creative process? How do you transform an idea into a tangible piece of work?

I use my own experience to tell a story—things I saw at a play, an art exhibition, or during a trip. But all senses matter to me; a dinner, music, a book, or a particular scent can spark an idea, a suggestion that becomes an image

5 - In terms of inspiration, where do you go to find this? Who were your main influencers and inspirations as you were growing up?

I don't know any influencers, and I'm not social at all. The people who have inspired me artistically are all dead. By the way, real artists are all dead, as only future generations decide what is art and what is not. It's impossible to say today if a contemporary artist will be remembered. For example, I can't think of a single one that can be considered as such among the living. Maybe only Hockney and those close to him are close to immortality.

6 - What advice would you offer aspiring artists looking to establish themselves in the industry?

Live intensely, be curious in every moment, limit your ego but at the same time, feed your ambition. Turn frustration into anger and use it as fuel to get results. Nothing burns more fiercely than anger. Flattery, for example, is toxic; it is molasses in which you are likely to get stuck and which prevents improvement. So forget likes on social media; much of it is envy masquerading as admiration. What remains is an exchange of favors.

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?

I go running outdoors, see people in the park, and listen to great music while doing so. This helps me a lot to stay creative, along with a high quality of life that I demand to ensure trips and moments to remember with my family.

8 - Reflecting on your career, could you share a standout project or collaboration that you consider a highlight? How did the opportunity come about?

I don't know. Maybe the last project for HERMES China? It's definitely very important to me. The opportunity presented itself; they contacted me directly, and I started working with them. The Chinese market is very interesting. Now, for example, I am working on a project for Huawei. Three or four years ago, I had never worked with China before.

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?

I mentioned that above. I've also been working on a nice project for Airbnb that will be online soon, and I've really enjoyed doing it.

10 - What has your experience been like collaborating with 13am thus far, and what motivated you to join forces with us?

For now, I don't have much to say. We'll see how things go in the future.

11 - Looking ahead, what would be your dream project or client to tackle in the future?

I would like to expand my work to Arabia, for example. I have never worked in Arabia before.

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?

Perhaps only a dinner with Leonardo Da Vinci, the greatest genius mankind has ever had. Let us remember that he was not only a phenomenally talented artist but also an architect, engineer, inventor, scientist, anatomopathologist. Find me a human being who ever had all these gifts in him... I would not need the other three wishes, as I would be interested in knowing all about every aspect of his genius existence.

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?

Italian Renaissance: Michelangelo versus Leonardo in Florence, facing each other while painting the Battle of Cascina, one on one side and the other on the opposite side. Or, being able to entertain myself in the Paris of the 1920s frequented by Picasso, Hemingway, and a thousand other immense characters.