In a new series, we’re shedding light on how designers are making waves on Dribbble and beyond. Today, read about how Jonas Mosesson has built and maintained an authentic audience as a motion designer.
Hi, I’m Jonas. I’m a pasta obsessed illustrator and animator from Sweden, currently living in Los Angeles and working at Buck. I’ve been drawing stupid things for over 15 years and animating them for 5 years.
Who is your audience and how would you describe your design style?
If I were to describe my style in one word, it would be silly. It’s simple, naive, and hopefully never serious. I worked for nine long years doing mostly serious work and it was eating away at me. I think it even made me a boring person. As soon as I started freelancing, I promised myself that I would try to keep it fun. Surprisingly, a lot of clients seem to love fun too. Turns out, I’d just been working with the wrong clients.
What kind of work do you find best connects with your audience?
I’d say anything that connects with people on some level—something that’s relatable or makes people go, “Oh, that’s me!” or, “I know that feeling”. That kind of stuff really seems to resonate. On a more technical note, I find a lot of people find old shots of mine through searching for tags, so make sure you add relevant tags to your Shots!
How do you engage with other creatives on Dribbble?
I have a browser plugin that makes every new tab show the most popular Dribbble Shots. That way, I always keep up with what’s new—even shots from people I don’t follow. Actually, I mostly Like Shots for myself, to keep them in my library of references for later jobs. I always have a bookmarked tab with my liked Dribbble Shots to go back to if I need inspiration for anything. But I also try to take the time to leave a comment when I really like something, which has actually led me to connect with some of my heroes.
This might be a little pet peeve of mine, but if you decide to leave a comment, please make it anything but asking people to see your work. Write something nice! Everyone loves a compliment. And people will find your work eventually if it’s good. Or silly.
How do your connections on Dribbble help propel your work and build your following?
A lot of companies and agencies scout for talent on Dribbble and a ton of the work requests I get will begin with saying they’ve found me on Dribbble. In terms of building an audience, I want to say that I see so many incredibly talented people who are too shy or not confident enough to post their stuff online. But that feels really sad to me—you could make the most amazing art out there but if no one can see it, how do you find your audience? I’m glad I started posting my terrible work online way before I was any good. You can always delete it later!
Want to keep up with Jonas? Find him on Dribbble, Instagram, and at jonasmosesson.se.
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