We have a thing for talented boys and Scott W Mason is no exception. Our first meeting with Scott was in his collaboration with Cecilie Harris in BBG exclusive video "The Boys in the Woods". The recent Fashion Photography graduate describes himself as a ‘fashion image maker’, combining his two passions in life; fashion illustration and photography. We have put a focus on his illustrator side in the work we are showcasing in this feature, as there is so much lovely illustration to take in, and we have a thing for illustrator boys.
With a client list including Ted Baker, Hunger TV and Lewis amongst others, Scott is most definately a go getter in life and prides himself on wanting to bring something different to the industry. His work consists of bright colour, fluid lines and an interesting mix of the mediums of photography and illustration.
We admire Scott for his honest words as well as good taste in TV. Like who doesn’t love a bit of Tyra in bed on a Sunday? So sit back with a cup of tea in hand and enjoy the inspirational words and illustrations of Scott W Mason.
Hey Scott! Why don't you introduce yourself?
I’m Scott W Mason, a fashion illustrator and photographer.
How did your interest in illustration and photography start?
I’ve always drawn since I was young and as long as you put a bit of paper in front of me, I was gone. For hours and hours I would just doodle - it was an easy way to keep me quiet. As time progressed it grew from there and through going to college I was introduced to photography. Outside of college I would watch America’s Next Top Model - The shoots were so elaborate and made me think that I wanted to produce something like that. I had no budget though, so drawing was my way of expressing this creativity.
Instant Analogue by Cecilie Harris. Special thanks to Impossible.
Are there any images you have created that have been especially memorable?
My first photo-shoot in college, it was hideous! I was going to do a shoot inspired by the Wizard of Oz, it’s a cliché thing that everyone did. I was even going to have the model as Tin Man, dressed up in tin foil, it was really bad. It always sticks in my mind because I was so excited about it at the time.
What would you say inspired you most?
Probably music. And life, without sounding ridiculous, but when you walk around, you see or hear something and it just triggers something in your mind.
What sort of music do you listen to?
A bit of everything. At the moment I’m obsessed with Chrisette Michele, she’s an R&B singer. I drew a picture inspired by one of her songs, and tweeted it to her and she replied, so that was pretty cool. I also listen to Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, and Whitney Houston - anyone that has a powerful voice.
What role do you believe an artist has in society nowadays?
I think it is escapism – artists offer an escape. With everything that’s going on, money issues and unemployment - I think people rely on artists, directors, singers and creatives to build an escape from their everyday life. I think it is important in life.
Name three items that you can’t live without.
My phone. I just can’t live without my phone - It’s awful. Can I count pen and paper as one? Also TV - I love my TV shows. It’s a guilty pleasure.
What do you do when you are not illustrating?
If I’m not drawing, I’ll be drinking. As I literally draw all the time, even these white walls, I’m so tempted to start scribbling on them. Cardboard boxes too or post it notes. I just can’t stop!
Amazing! What would your dream project be?
My dream project would be directing a film. I have made a fashion film before. I would love to do that in the future, and also make a magazine. I’ve done an interactive zine, but I want to make a proper magazine. Just directing, making a magazine, creating photo-shoots and illustrating - I want to give it all ago.
Can you let us in on a random fact about yourself?
I’m 6 foot 4, is that random?
I guess we'll accept it this time. Have you got any tips or inspiring words for our readers?
Just don’t stop, when I started drawing it was awful. So when I feel bad about myself I take out my old sketch books and tell myself “I have improved.” The only way to improve is to keep doing and to keep going. No matter what people say, whether it’s bad, good or ugly, the only way to get better is to keep going at it. As long as you have the passion for it, be creative. And if you have the creativity then you’ll be fine.
On a final note, where can we find your work?
Everywhere! Haha. You can find it on my website, www.scottwmason.com. My Twitter and Instagram name is @scottwmason. I post on Instagram every day, so if you ever want to see what I scribble on day to day basis, then follow me on Instagram.
Interview and Words by Rosie Williams.