MKDL meets: Wendy Scheerlinck
“Architect by day and multidisciplinary designer by night.”
We had the pleasure of talking to the talented Wendy Scheerlinck about the inspiration behind her print design studio, House of May.
How did you get into print designing?
As I was approaching my 40s, I found myself feeling empty and unfulfilled. I went searching for inspiration, for something I truly loved. I stumbled across a Digital Print Design Course and everything suddenly seemed to fall into place.
But what did I find in print design that I couldn’t in my job as an architect? As Alex Proba said so aptly, “Architecture is not my thing. It’s way too slow for me… I need that instant gratification. I want to make something and have it and see it.”
It is my biggest dream to be able to make House of May a well-known design studio, and create prints full-time.
How does your architectural background influence your work?
Since studying architecture, I have developed a great passion for forms, design and aesthetics. In my prints, this translates into bold, colourful shapes and graphic elements. I often draw my inspiration from the (neo-)avant-garde, modernist architecture and the great eighties Memphis Style.
I see myself as a multidisciplinary designer. I create designs for buildings, cushions, cabinets and everything in between. I need that variation and I enjoy brainstorming together with my clients about possibilities they didn't even think about.
You have described yourself as a ‘Colour Addict’. Why are colour and bold patterns so important to you?
I have always felt a little different, never felt the need to run with the crowd. The whole world seems to be grey ... I want to encourage people through the use of colour to dare to stand out from time to time. I want to empower them to be bold and follow their own unique path. Colours inevitably bring joy and finding the right colour combinations that touch people, is such a thrill!
How does individuality and self-expression inspire you?
I adore women in the industry that have their own handwriting on everything they do and who have a strong personality. They inspire me so much! First of all, I think of Alex Proba, but also amazing women like Kelly Wearstler and Tekla Evelina Severin. They just live their dream and make the most of their creative abilities. They're my biggest inspiration!
What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced in the industry?
I am still finding my way in the industry of surface pattern design, but I just know I can and will make a difference! It's a process of slow growth and making the right decisions, but most of all I am so happy and grateful for the community of designers I have bonded with through Spoonflower. We support and help each other so much in this process!
Its been amazing collaborating with other brands, getting to know the most amazing people, visiting places and creating possibilities that I would never have had without House of May.
Thank you so much to Wendy for chatting to us. Check out her work on her website and Instagram.
Photos by Buro Bonito
