In partnership with Music Week, CC had a lovely chat with Sony's photo and artwork commissioner Joanna Weir about her love of all things creative...
Who is the most visually iconic artist ever in your opinion?
David Bowie. So many different guises through the years and with each one a new set of weird, esoteric ideas pushed out to a mainstream audience. Totally fearless in reinventing and transforming himself which keeps things interesting!
What is your favourite music video ever, and why?
Probably Invisible Light directed by Canada. Bow down at the alter of high camp.
What is your favourite music photograph, and why?
Right now I love Serge Lutens so I would have to say his 1974 portrait of Jane Birkin, wholesome fresh faced 60s model /chanteuse, transformed into a cadaverous Wednesday Addams prototype. Wonderful.
What is the best digital campaign idea you have seen?
Well, Madeon's Adventure Machine was clever and noisy and addictive.
What is your favourite album cover of all time, and why?
How do you choose? It depends on what is inspiring me or what I'm listening to. When I was a teenager it was probably Suede or the cover of the Nuggets psych compilation but it's changed frequently. These days however, I am more inclined to look at how designers work and how their process defines the end result. Brian Roettinger's music design is always rooted in the music and the ideas around that. Everything he works on is great from No Age to Saint Vincent, Jay-Z and Ronson. Recently Everything Everything / Andrew Archer illustration for Get To Heaven is awesome, I’m not just being biased. Also Tame Impala / Robert Beatty artwork for Currents seems a perfect psychy proggy cohort for the music.
Which current creative campaign do you most admire?
The two campaigns Michal Pudelka has shot for Valentino. Beautiful, surreal images but maybe a sign of the times that such an established brand is choosing a relative newcomer to shoot their campaigns.
Who is your favourite artist that you've worked with creatively?
Paloma Faith. She has a vision and ambition for each album and doesn't compromise on any element. Working with her you are convinced that the imagery should be as integral and inspiring as the music and end up with wonderful stuff.
Which artist do you wish you were creatively involved with?
Die Antwoord would make for an interesting ride I'm sure.
