The Gap recently introduced a new collaboration with the website Threadless (www.threadless.com). Through the site, artists submit their T-shirt designs and the public votes on which ones are printed as limited runs. The Gap has brought 10 women's and 16 men's tees from Threadless to select stores (Mall of America) and Gap.com, including one by Phil Jones of Minneapolis. An art director at Carmichael Lynch by day, Jones has had 23 shirts printed and distributed through Threadless.Q How did you get involved with Threadless?
A As a creative outlet. It was a way to do stuff on my terms. I was my own client. It also gave me a chance to connect with other artists. I quickly realized it would make me better as a designer.
Q What was your reaction to being selected for the Gap collaboration?
A It was terribly exciting. I maybe chopped my desk in half. Every designer and artist dreams about getting in front of more and more people. It's the first time in my life my mom figured out what was I doing. T-shirts are a very relatable medium. It's basic, but it's walking around with a canvas on your chest.
Q What inspired the shirt?
A Honestly, it's as simple as it is -- the typography: "I hate negative statements." It's a funny play on words. I'm an über-positive person. I do hate negativity. I hate irony, as well, which often comes off as negative.
Q How do you characterize the design aesthetic of the Twin Cities?
A Outside of New York, I think this is the most happening art area. It's so embracing. Everybody knows everybody, and everybody props everyone up.
