Episode 29 - Jorn Schmidt

Art Conversations with Lisa Jayne Irvine

Jorn Schmidt grew up in Germany, where he studied Philosophy. Jorn moved to Canada in 2005. His first contact with screen printing was in Berlin, where he tried to support himself during his Ph.D studies. He would sell t-shirts and other things on the weekend at a local flea market. The first t-shirt Jorn ever designed and printed depicted the Philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein, part of what he now calls The 'Philosophers' series.

When Jorn moved to Canada for romantic reasons, he discovered that continuing his studies proved more difficult and lengthier than anticipated. Again, Jorn turned to making t-shirts, which he sold online, mostly through ebay. Jorn taught himself basic programming skills and soon launched his own website. At the same time he shifted from the Philosophers to urban scenes, which would attract a larger audience.

Production initially took place at his home until the next big step in 2015. With sales going up and his designs also available in local shops, Jorn opened his own shop in Montreal's Mile End area. Initially the idea was to have a workshop and Jorn hoped that a bit of foot traffic would help to cover the rent. Seven years later, the shop was featured in some of the local guide books.

On today’s episode Jorn talks about starting his t-shirt business, his interest in philosophy and his infamous racoon design.

Interested in seeing some of Jorn’s work. Go to his website at www.tresnormale.com

Find Jorn on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tresnormale/

Find me on instagram at https://www.instagram.com/artconversationswithlisajayne/ or at my website at www.lisajayneirvine.com