Bohemian Artist

So you’re an established graphic artist. You have an awesome portfolio and your own business. Does still matter how you dress?

How many times did you hear that one should not judge a book by its cover? Do you?

If book covers didn’t matter, why does every book have one? Why not just write out the title and author all in the same font? Hemingway’s books might get away with that…

The truth is that we are highly visual creatures. We judge things by their appearance, whether we want to or not. Let’s face it – if how things look didn’t matter, we’d be out of business!

If a book has a poor cover, who’s going to care what’s inside?

The first thing people see is what matters the most. It influences how they judge all that follows.

Will clients judge you by how you’re dressed or by your portfolio?

How you’re dressed IS part of your portfolio!

Because of our profession we have a little bit of lenience. You don’t have to stuff yourself in a business suit. In fact I would not recommend that. Show off that you’re a creative spirit!

There is a lot of advice out there on how to put together a portfolio. And how the first item should be the very best, as it sets the tone. Well, I believe that, in reality, how you look is your first portfolio piece. Treat is as such.

And one word of the wise; this is an advice I heard a long time ago but it makes a lot of sense: “Never drive a more expensive car than your client.” I believe the same rule would apply to wardrobe also.

The Stylish City: What’s the inspiration for your line?
Selen: I’m inspired by abstract forms and shapes in nature and under the sea. Things like architectural salvages and ancient forgery.

The Stylish City: We heard that you sometimes wake up in the middle of the night to sketch out a design you dreamed of. Is that true? What else can you tell us about your creative process?
Selen: Yes, once I am in the creative phase, I start being aware of synchronicities. I visualize and slowly shapes and textures appear in front of my eyes. This is a very spiritual moment. It’s like the universe approves of my path and whether it’s day or night, anytime this happens, I am back to my creative spell. I start sketching – trying to rewind what I thought of. The next day, I make little models, still visualizing what I dreamt of during the day and than I turn them into metal.

The Stylish City: How did growing up in Turkey influence your work?
Selen: Istanbul is a magical city for an artist/ Seeing beautiful remains from the Byzantine, the magnificence of the architecture of the Ottoman Palaces, mosques and the whimsical sincerity of Mediterranean and Aegean seas is all very inspiring!

The Stylish City: What are your ultimate plans for the line?
Selen: I would love to have some permanent location and customize work for my customers. I have designed for brides and bridesmaids. I would love to be able to do more commissioned work for non-profit groups.

The Stylish City: Who would be your dream fashion collaborator?
Selen: Donna Karan

The Stylish City: Is there a celebrity you’d like to see wearing your designs?
Selen: I’ve never really thought about it!

The Stylish City: Who’s the ideal Selen Design customer?
Selen: Women of all ages who appreciate art and contemporary jewelry, handmade textures, and the life and thought behind each piece.

The Stylish City: It seems like so much of the fashion industry these days is about PR and marketing, yet you draw in repeat customers by word of mouth without any gimmicks. Is that a conscious decision?
Selen: So far in New York, my sales team and I have developed great relationships with my customers and I appreciate how loyal and excited they are. They are the reason I push myself to make new items so often. That said, I do eventually want to get some marketing help.

The Stylish City: What’s your single favorite piece for Studio Gluck customers? Why?
Selen: I love the Abundant Bamboo necklace and it’s flow and earthy texture.

Leila Cohan-Miccio