Interview with Michele Mardorf for Synthax

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Michele Mardorf

Michele Mardorf is a creative professional with a multicultural background, having lived in diverse countries such as Spain, Peru, and St. Maarten. These varied experiences have ignited a deep passion for art direction, marketing, and storytelling, driving her to explore different aspects of creativity across industries and cultures.

1Please give us a brief bio of yourself and your creative background.
I'm a creative professional with a multicultural upbringing, having lived in various countries like Spain, Peru, and St. Maarten. My diverse experiences have fueled my passion for art direction, marketing, and storytelling, leading me to explore different facets of creativity across industries and cultures.
2What made you become/why did you choose to become a creative?

My journey into creativity began as a natural extension of my upbringing, where I was surrounded by art, music, and diverse cultures. This rich environment ignited my curiosity and inspired me to explore various forms of expression, ultimately leading me to pursue a career in the creative field.

I've always been drawn to the power of storytelling and visual communication, and I knew that becoming a creative would allow me to channel my passion into making meaningful connections through my work.

3Tell us more about your business/company, job profile, and what you do.
As an Art Director at Mass Appeal, my role centers on collaborating with a diverse range of talent, from emerging artists to established icons, to bring campaigns to life through cultural insights and innovative storytelling.
4What does “creativity” mean to you?

Creativity to me is the boundless exploration of ideas, the freedom to express oneself uniquely, and the courage to challenge conventional thinking. It's about using your imagination to solve problems, evoke emotions, and inspire others.

Creativity would also mean to be the spark that ignites innovation and makes people feel seen through carefully curated storytelling.

5To you, what makes a “creative” idea and/or design?

A "creative" idea or design goes beyond aesthetics; it's a lens through which we see the world differently, offering new perspectives and insights that help us feel connected and understood. It's about uncovering those moments of resonance and expressing them through innovative thinking and tasteful execution.

A truly creative idea has the power to challenge norms, provoke thought, and evoke emotion, ultimately leaving a lasting impact on its audience.

6Tell us about your creative and/or design process.

My creative process is a blend of exploration, iteration, and refinement. It begins with deep immersion in the project's context, whether it's understanding the audience, the brand, or the message. From there, I explore various concepts and approaches, allowing curiosity to guide me toward unexpected ideas.

Iteration plays a crucial role as I refine and evolve these concepts, seeking feedback and insights along the way. Finally, I polish the chosen concept, ensuring it not only meets the project's objectives but also resonates emotionally and intellectually with its audience.

7What's your favorite part of the creative process and why?
My favorite part of the creative process is the initial exploration phase. It's a time of boundless possibility, where ideas are free to roam and take shape. I love diving into research, uncovering insights, and thinking about concepts that push the boundaries of what's possible. This phase ignites my curiosity and fuels my passion for problem-solving.
8Describe your creative style and its main characteristics.
I thrive on blending various influences from my multicultural background, infusing each project with a unique flavor. Whether it's sleek and modern or vibrant and eclectic, I aim to evoke emotion and provoke thought through thoughtful design and storytelling. Flexibility and innovation are at the core of my approach, allowing me to tailor my style to meet the specific needs and objectives of each project.
9Do you think your country and its cultural heritage has an impact on your creativity process?

Absolutely! Growing up in 4 countries and speaking 4 languages has exposed me to a rich tapestry of traditions, perspectives, and artistic expressions. These experiences have shaped my aesthetic sensibilities, instilling in me a deep appreciation for multiculturalism, roots, and a desire to incorporate diverse influences into my work.

Whether it's the vibrant colors of Latin American and the Caribbean, or the minimalist elegance of European design, my cultural heritage serves as a constant source of inspiration, informing my creative decisions and infusing my work with depth and authenticity.

10Congratulations! As the winner of the 2024 MUSE Creative Awards, what does it mean to you and your company and team to receive this award distinction?
Receiving the 2024 MUSE Creative Award is truly a testament to the countless hours and late nights I've dedicated to my craft. It's immensely gratifying to see that hard work pay off and to be recognized for my creative efforts.
11Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2024 MUSE Creative Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?
The winning project I submitted introduced a gaming element to music production education. This innovative approach aimed to alleviate the steep learning curve faced by aspiring producers and provide a more engaging and effective learning experience. I entered this project to showcase its groundbreaking nature and potential to revolutionize music production education.
12What was the biggest challenge with this project?

The biggest challenge with this project was finding the balance between gamification and educational content. It required careful consideration to ensure that the gaming aspect enhanced the learning experience without overshadowing the educational objectives.

Additionally, aligning the goals of UnitedMasters with the needs of aspiring producers presented logistical challenges that needed creative problem-solving.

13How has winning an Award developed your practice/career?
Winning awards has motivated me to continue refining my craft and pursuing innovative projects that make a meaningful impact.
14What are your top three (3) favorite things about our industry?
My top three favorite aspects are the endless opportunities for creativity and innovation, the dynamic nature of the work, and the continuous search for human truths.
15What makes your country specifically, unique in the creative industry?
Spain's vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse heritage infuse a unique flavor into the creative industry.
16Where do you see the evolution of creative industry going over the next 5-10 years?
Over the next 5-10 years, I can imagine the creative industry seeing a surge in innovation driven by advancements in technology. Additionally, there will be a growing emphasis on telling more authentic stories that resonate with diverse audiences, shaping a more inclusive and engaging creative landscape.
17If you were a student entering this industry or an aspiring MUSE Creative Awards submitter, what advice would you give them?
I would emphasize the importance of doubling down on your dreams. Believe in yourself, bet on your unique talents, and be willing to put in the hard work and dedication needed to turn those dreams into reality.
18Tell us something you have never told anyone else.
One of my lesser-known sources of inspiration is saving posts on Instagram. It's become a habit to curate a collection of images, designs, and ideas that resonate with me, serving as a visual and insightful reference when I need inspiration. It's like having a personalized mood board at my fingertips.
19Who has inspired you in your life and why?

Kendrick Lamar's profound lyricism, Es Devlin's transformative stage designs, and Rick Rubin's minimalist approach have profoundly influenced my creative journey.

Their ability to merge art with technology, infuse meaning into their work, and prioritize authenticity has inspired me to push the boundaries of creativity in my own endeavors.

20What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?

My key to success lies in relentless dedication, a thirst for continuous learning, and a willingness to take risks. By betting on myself and consistently putting in the work, I've been able to navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities.

My parting words of wisdom would be to stay true to your vision, embrace failure as a stepping stone to growth, and never underestimate the power of perseverance and passion.

Winning Entry

Synthax: A Producer's Road To Hall of Fame | 2024

Synthax: A Producer's Road To Hall of Fame | Michele Mardorf

Michele Mardorf

Michele Mardorf is a creative professional with a multicultural background, having lived in diverse countries such as Spain, Peru, and St. Maarten. These varied experiences have ignited a deep passion for art direction, marketing, and storytelling, driving her to explore different aspects of creativity across industries and cultures.


Read more about Michele Mardorf's interview with the 2024 NYX Awards for Colliding Waves!

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