From a childhood fascination with cartoons and superheroes to exploring Japanese anime and urban art, Damon Brown's love for art has been a lifelong journey. His creative evolution took him through college, where he delved into classic art and painting techniques, eventually crafting his own unique style that blends animation, street art, and graphic design.
After completing his degree at Washington State University, Brown returned to his hometown of Seattle, leaving an indelible mark on the city's artistic landscape. His contributions range from large-scale public art projects to designing brand packaging, including the eye-catching mural at the Starbucks store on 1st and Walker in Seattle. Additionally, he designed a poster featuring the iconic Siren in celebration of Starbucks' 50th anniversary.
Describing his artistic philosophy as "complex simplicity," Brown aims to create a blend of shapes and movement that allows the viewer's mind to connect with the art, filling in their own blanks with imagination. He refers to it as a magic he has developed over the years.
Now, Starbucks is set to showcase Damon Brown's art in the latest installment of the Starbucks Artist Collaboration Series, an initiative celebrating the unique stories of artists from around the world. Starting January 30, his specially designed drinkware will be available in participating Starbucks stores across the U.S. and Canada.
Brown drew inspiration from the concept of community, intentionally integrating the viewer's perspective into the artwork. He envisions it as if the viewers are walking down the street alongside the depicted characters, creating a sense of shared experience.
The color palette chosen for the pieces features calming shades of pale blue, green, and cream, evoking a 1960s vibe. Brown explains that the intentional play on the classic color palette of red, black, and green, often associated with Black art or Black History Month, adds a modern and purposeful touch.
The graphic elements in Brown's design reflect a modern sensibility, featuring stylistic shapes and incorporating diverse hairstyles that aren't typically seen on merchandise. Brown emphasizes the conscious effort to infuse modernity into the design while celebrating diversity.
Damon Brown's collaboration with Starbucks marks another milestone in his artistic journey, bringing his imaginative and inclusive creations to coffee enthusiasts worldwide.