A Weekend Unplugged: Designer James Junk's Creative Escape

As the workweek wraps up, LA-based designer James Junk emphasizes the importance of disconnecting from the digital world. Known for his vibrant graphic design and art direction, Junk often finds himself tethered to his screen, blending his professional and personal life into a few pixels. To combat this, he has embraced a more tactile approach to his weekends, seeking inspiration beyond the confines of his laptop.

Kickstarting his Saturday at Rockii Studios in Silver Lake, Junk participates in a handmade jewelry beading workshop. "After a week of clicking and dragging, I’m committed to creating things my computer can’t help me with," he says. Following the workshop, he strolls to a pop-up by Gustaf Westman on Sunset Boulevard, a tempting prospect given his passion for visually appealing items.

Reading is another avenue through which Junk enriches his downtime. He juggles a fiction and a nonfiction book simultaneously to keep his ADHD brain engaged. Currently, he is diving into Sikodiwa by Carl Lorenz Cervantes, which offers insights into indigenous Filipino culture, and Transcription by Ben Lerner, a spontaneous purchase from a quaint London bookstore.

As evening approaches, Junk heads to Donna’s in Echo Park, a popular eatery he swears by. He and a friend adopt a casual approach to reservations, opting to grab a drink at a nearby wine bar while waiting for a table. His dining recommendations always start with the garlic bread, a must-try according to him.

Once home, Junk unwinds with some light viewing, choosing between The Chair Company on HBO and the latest episode of The Real Housewives of Atlanta. He prefers entertainment that feels worlds away from his design work, relishing the absurdity of reality TV and the escapism it offers.

Sunday is reserved for introspection and home improvement as Junk considers replacing a dark marble coffee table with a round, cheerful option. "A joyful table seems like a reasonable business expense, spiritually speaking!" he quips, highlighting the dual purpose of his living space as both home and studio.

Music serves as Junk’s constant companion, with Sports’ self-titled album accompanying him throughout the weekend. He also enjoys listening to the podcast Did I Do That? hosted by Sean Schumacher, where he appreciates the depth of conversation among creatives.

Junk concludes his weekend with a creative reflection, sharing a poster titled "How to decentre the algorithm as a creative." This theme resonates with his weekend philosophy of stepping away from screens and engaging with the physical world. "Getting off my screens and onto my feet has become non-negotiable!" he declares, encapsulating his commitment to a more grounded, creative lifestyle.

Source: www.itsnicethat.com