Ben has the ability to adapt his design skills to each individual project whether it’s a stylised 90’s inspired poster or a futuristic 3D print. He uses a mixture of medians to create a spectrum of work that encapsulates an authentic style. Experimentation is central to his work as Arfur explores type, illustration, design and arrangement to create graphic artwork. Many of Ben’s concepts are based on 90’s culture and unrefined designs, something that you can see runs throughout his work.

Starting out as a young creative in South Wales, how did get to where you are today as a successful designer working in London?

I never actually set out for for a career in graphic design, its just something that happened over time. I’ve always had a keen eye, and an idea of how something should look - luckily others were into it and that’s been the motion ever since. The industry is massively competitive but I think its all about finding your own groove, if you think your idea’s good, then you’re probably right.

I have noticed that your work has a very 90’s feel to it and seems to be influenced by graphic design that was around in the 90’s but with a modern twist – am I right by thinking this?

That’s pretty much nail on the head there. I was born in 1990 (recently turned 30 which is terrifying) so influences around me stem from early lurid cartoons, music videos, comics and probably more significantly unrefined designs - there was a certain charm to everything that’s almost inexplicable, but the fact you got it and stuck it in this interview’s enough.

You say that you explore the boundaries between type, illustration, design and arrangement, can you tell us how you go about doing this in more detail?

It’s more not to pigeon-hole myself into one medium I guess. I don’t particularly excel in any individually, but merging the lot makes more sense.

I can see that you have been working with digitalising photographs in order to create a 3D effect. What inspired you to do this?

Nothing in particular, I guess it just comes as an active designer - eventually pulling from different angles and seeing what sticks.

Your client base is mainly artists that work in the music industry, would you say this is because you have a keen interest in music yourself?

It’s definitely part of it. I think my design style lends itself to music probably more so than anything else; its pretty versatile.

What advice would you give to anyone starting out as a graphic designer who is also self teaching themselves?

Experiment! Reach out to the people you want to work with and more importantly than ever - don’t let anyone take the piss.