I am a graphic design and avid car enthusiast, Hive is what happens when I combine the two.
It all started out a few years ago as a personal project. I began work on a poster featuring 50 Significant Japanese Sportscars. As I got further into it, I started to consult other enthusiasts to create the ultimate list. It generated a lot of interest online so I decided that once it was complete I would print a limited run to sell.
It started from there and now I have created over 70 different posters. I have sold to over 41 different countries now. I began selling from my Facebook page using PayPal. It wasn't until a fan recommended I use Storenvy, things really started to happen once I setup my store.
The name Hive took inspiration for the organisation and efficiency of the beehive system. I like things to be well organised, ordered and efficient so I chose the name to reflect these values. My inspiration comes from the cars, info graphics and categorizing things. It borders on being slightly obsessive! I have always had a keen interest in cars from a very young age. I regularly attend as many car shows and motor sport events as possible.
The process I follow when creating my posters always starts with research. I first determine the subject of the poster - which make or model line I will illustrate. The research comes from personal knowledge, internet, books and other experts I consult with. I create lists of the cars to be included in chronological order then I source reference images of each car so I can accurately illustrate each model. I pride myself on detail and accuracy. I draw all the cars from scratch using Adobe InDesign. Typically it takes 30-60min per car, but it can take longer.
Once the poster is nearly complete I will consult with enthusiasts of that particular brand to make sure it is accurate. I have discovered that nearly every make or model of car has a passionate following and that you can usually find them online through forums etc. Once I am happy with the layout I print off proofs to check for any errors and to make sure the colours are all ok. Often you see things in print that you don't notice on screen so this is an important part of the process to ensure a quality product. When the design is finalized I publish it ready for sale. I do carry some posters in stock but most are printed to order. That way I don't have to invest a lot of money up front and I can update the posters with new models every few months.
I have developed a good working relationship with my print supplier. The posters are printed on 190gsm Satin photo paper using an HP Z6200 wide-format printer. The finished product is of very high quality. A lot of my customers get their posters framed and this takes the artwork to another level in quality. I print to standard A2 size, but am able to print the posters in any custom size.
I also offer custom commissions and this has been popular. Customers request illustrations of their own cars. These make really nice gifts for people also.
I get a lot of positive feedback from everyone who sees or buys the posters. I enjoy hearing back from customers about how pleased they are with the product. Often I get sent photos of the posters framed or displayed in peoples garages and they look great.
I found there was a real lack in quality automotive art, and I had never come across anything done in the style I have developed.
Most of all I design things that I myself would like to hang on my wall, and I know fellow enthusiast will love them too.
