Maas travel
Maas 4 Studio brings the sunshine from Miami
Curating the Grid is an interview series that explores how place informs design and vice versa. All interviews feature a creative company or individual who has curated one of On the Grid’s neighborhood guides around the world. Today’s interview features Maas 4 Studio, our curators for Key Biscayne, Miami.
Do you think showing the world through On the Grid highlights sameness or difference?
I think it highlights the differences of the cultures that exist throughout the world. There are culinary, cultural, and even design differences. No two places are the same. While On the Grid brings together a community, it definitely shows differences throughout the world.
Do you think travel is necessary for the creative community? Why?
Travel is definitely an advantage. It’s not the same to study a Michelangelo piece as to see it with your own eyes. Traveling opens the mind to new cultures, experiences, architecture, and art. Traveling gives you a new set of eyes and mindset. I was lucky to have lived in South America, studied in London, England, which was a great travel opportunity, and traveled to Asia.
Do designers have a responsibility to explore the local culture?
Absolutely. You can create an amazing design but it might fail to convey the message or capture the attention of the local culture. This happens because cultures have different ways of communicating. What may work in one culture, may be offensive in another. Designers have a duty to explore the local culture and immerse themselves in it.
How did you get involved with On the Grid?
I first came across On the Grid on social media. I wasn’t sure what it was but the illustrations immediately caught my eye and e-mailed them right away.
If you could go back and do this again, would you still take on the same role?
Yes! Not only was this such a fun and unique experience but it was also a way to get to know and collaborate with the local community even more.
What type of product or service do you specialize in?
We specialize in brand consulting. Our clients range from start-ups to established companies.
What influences inspire your work?
Our work is influenced by other arts such as architecture and fashion. We also find inspiration in nature. Inspiration comes from our environment, we just have to look.
What is your design background?
I studied Graphic Design at University of Miami. I also majored in International Relations which, oddly enough, gave me a different perspective which can influence my design process. I grew up with art and design. My father is an architect and my mother is a fashion designer. I couldn’t escape it.
