DIY DOCS: MIKEY WOMACK
In DIY DOC’S, we take a look at how illustrators, artists, and designers put their stamp on a Dr. Martens product. Painting, tattooing or de-constructing — we’re giving them the creative freedom to express themselves off the canvas.
Meet Mikey Womack, a concept print designer and illustrator from London. His works are executed with a raw, instinctive approach and a chaotic yet harmonious use of colour and imagery.
Introduce yourself – who are you, and what do you do?
I’m Mikey Womack, I’m an illustrator and print designer from London. I work freelance as a designer and creative consultant for fashion brands, record labels and design studios.
Who or what do you take inspiration from?
My work is very personal, it’s inspired by my own experiences. I would describe it as abstract storytelling, it’s energized and emotive. One of my drawings could be inspired by a piece of music, a word, a colour or simply a feeling I wake up with that day. Aesthetically I’m influenced by artists who aren’t afraid of colour and who don’t hold back when working large-scale… Basquiat, Will Boone, Rob Phillips, Cy Twombly.
Do you have an illustration or project you’re most proud of?
Quite soon after graduating, my work got featured on the cover of a well respected publication. That was a big moment. I rang my mum like “mum, I’m a cover girl!”
Tsumi – AW17 by Mikey Womack
Talk us through your customised Dr. Martens, was it a challenge working on a pair of shoes?
I didn’t think it would be challenging working on shoes, but it was. I tried to plan and rehearse what I was going to do to them because I didn’t want to ‘ruin’ something so perfect. This just didn’t work out because none of my work is ever planned, it’s totally instinctive. So after a long period of frustration and staring at the blank shoes, I went for my usual process and took them outside and started going at them with paint. There isn’t exactly a theme to them but I’ve been missing summer a lot lately so I decided to go for something bright and floral, to remind me that it’s on the way.
Do you listen to music while you work? Name three tracks you can’t hear enough of:
I can’t work without music! Three of my favourite tracks ever:
Smerz – Because
Youandewan – 93
Zero 7 – Destiny
If you could have any super-power, what would it be?
Teleportation. I’d go to San Francisco for brunch then Tokyo for dinner.
London is like the ex I’ll always fancy. I find it exhausting at times but it’s home. I love the vibrancy, the music and my extraordinary friends.
Tell us your favourite thing about the city you live in:
London is like the ex I’ll always fancy. I find it exhausting at times but it’s home. I love the vibrancy, the music and my extraordinary friends.
Tell us about your first pair of Dr. Martens:
My mum got me my first pair for Christmas when I was 14. It was really special because I’d wanted some for so long and I felt ridiculously cool in them. They’re black 1460s. Classic.
Always explore and don’t pay attention to other people’s rules.
What do you stand for?
Do whatever you want. Go at your own pace, always explore and don’t pay attention to other people’s rules. Love and be loved.
