 Photo by Mia Palenque |
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Name: Stefan Lindblad |
How long have you been in this profession?
Since 1997. I registered my own company as a frelancer in 1997 and have worked with it full time since then. Prior to 1997, I freelanced as an illustrator but I was more into fine art as painter. I have made numerous solo art exhibitions for art galleries, as well as directly comissioned artwork for companies, private homes and public art in conjunction with architects and interior designers.
Why did you choose this profession?
I decided as a thirteen-year old while juggling with oranges, that I had to decide what to do in life and asked myself the question (while jugglinging the oranges): ”What do I like to do when I am all alone?" I decided then to become an artist.
How did you get started?
In my early 30s, I wanted to take a break from art and did other things for a year or two, then the lust to make illustrations, design, drawing and art came back and I felt I remembered what it was I wanted to work with.
What are your most important accomplishments?
To have met my girlfriend Mia, and actually become a freelancer to begin with and start my own business. Its not an easy thing to do - to stop all other things and go 100% into a business as uncertain as illustration, art and graphic design.
How long have you used CorelDRAW?
I started using CorelDRAW and PHOTO-PAINT in 1997.
How did you come across CorelDRAW?
Prior to 1997, I first heard about CorelDRAW from a colleague at work - I believe in '95 or '96 - and then I saw a package in a book store. I bought that, in a time when everyone seemed to use illegal copies. I loved it and then bought an upgrade after a few months - close to 1998.
Do you have any interesting/funny/noteworthy stories?
All though I never care about status or feel inferior to anyone or any big corporations, all the same, in 1997 I had a big corporate client meeting with an almost 200-year old Swedish company, with their power symbols cluttering the walls, once built to show off or even intimidate a visitor. Suddenly feeling a bit nervous, and to empower myself there on the street, I told myself: I am my own boss, and they can loose their job the same day. To me that instantly removed the nervousness. It was all about loosen up and not feeling inferior. Which is very important when having a meeting. You have to be ready to lose or win without regret.
What are your top three favorite CorelDRAW features?
Really difficult to choose only three. In PHOTO-PAINT I would say Brush Settings Docker, Lens objects, Batch Process and the Brush tool. In CorelDRAW, I would say Bezier, Powerclip, Colour Management and Styles.
What are the CorelDRAW features that allow you to distinguish your designs/art?
I have such a variety of clients, therefore it's the versatility of the suite, as well as individual tools and features combined.
How do you feel about CorelDRAW?
Joy, security and freedom.
